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DSA

Compulsory Basic Training (CBT) - the starting point


Pre-Course Requirements You will need the following:

  • A Driving Licence with Provisional Category P Entitlement at age 16 for Mopeds
  • A Driving Licence with Provisional Category A Entitlement at age 17 or above for motorcycles
  • A Copy of the Highway Code and please read it!

Note: Provisional Category P at 16 years of age automatically upgrades to Category A at age 17. You cannot take Compulsory Basic Training without being in possession of a valid driving licence.

You can apply for your licence online at the DVLA (Driving and Vehicle Licencing Agency) or at your nearest Post Office.

In 1990 the Government decided that anyone wanting to take to the road on two wheels must first have completed a CBT course. It is not a test, it is a training session which usually takes place over a period of 6 to 7 hours depending on ability. It is designed as an introduction to motorcycling and contains 5 elements which when successfully completed entitles you to a certificate of completion. This certificate (DL196) allows the rider onto the road as a learner. The certificate is valid for 2 years from the date of issue. You can now ride your bike without supervision as a learner but the following rules apply:
  • You may ride a bike up to a maximum of 125cc (depending on your age and licence categories
  • You must display L plates on the front and rear of your bike. They must be fully visible to other road users and the size of them may not be altered in any way
  • You are not allowed to ride on a motorway
  • You are not allowed to carry a pillion passenger
  

Note: If you have passed a moped test after December 1st 1990 you do not have to take CBT.

Click to find cost of Course

The Five Elements of Compulsory Basic Training

Element A – Introduction

The aims of the course and what to expect during your training. The importance of safety helmets and wearing the right clothing. You will also be asked to read a number plate at a distance of 20 meters just to make sure your eyesight is OK.

Element B – Practical on site Training

Machine controls and general familiarisation, taking the bike on and off its side and centre stands, basic daily and weekly inspection checks of the bike. Manually pushing the bike to the left and right and both forward and backward. Starting and stopping the engine correctly.

Element C – Practical on Site Riding

You will be taught to, move off and brake to a stop under full control, ride your machine slowly, ride a figure of eight, carry out simulated minor to major and major minor turns using OSM PSL routines, change gear satisfactorily if applicable, carry out rear observations, carry out a U turn and an emergency stop.

Element D – Practical on Road Training

Before going on the road, you will cover all the necessary aspects of hazard awareness, perception and anticipation, forward planning, rearward observation, defensive riding and road positioning, leaving safe clearances and distances and the correct use of speed. You will also discuss the legal requirements of motorcycling, vulnerability, the importance of knowing the highway code, the effects on riding of various weather conditions, road surfaces, drugs and alcohol use and attitude.

Test pass

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Element E – Practical on Road Riding

The road ride takes place for a minimum of two hours (more if necessary). Trainees must demonstrate their ability to negotiate roundabouts, junctions, pedestrian crossings, traffic lights, gradients, bends, and obstructions in a competent and safe manner. The U turn and emergency stop are repeated in this element.

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