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CBT Training
James B · October 30, 2018
- What Is CBT Training?
- What Do I Need to Take the CBT?
- What Happens During CBT Training?
- Frequently Asked Questions about CBT Training
- Book CBT Training
What is CBT Training?
Typically completed between 6 to 8 hours and requiring a base of ability and knowledge relating to the UK Highway Code and being able to ride an adult size bicycle, CBT Training also requires you to have a UK Provisional or Full Driving Licence or an EU Driving Licence that has been registered with the DVLA with a D9 form.
Once completed, the CBT Test license allows the rider to ride a motorcycle on the road unsupervised for a period of two years, however, there are restrictions which prevent learner riders from carrying a passenger or going on a motorway. Every two years you will need to get a CBT renewal. The only other restrictions relate to age, if you're 16 years old you can ride a moped up to 50cc and if you're 17 or over you can ride a motorcycle up to 125cc. If you are unsure whether you can take a CBT Test or you are looking for a beginners guide to motorcycle licenses then review our guides section. It's a common misunderstanding that the CBT is a test, however it is training and requires you to complete each of the 5 elements consecutively in order to receive certification.
What do I need to take the CBT?
There are a few requirements in order to take the CBT:
- Be able to ride an adult sized bicycle
- Read a registration plate at a distance of 20.5 meters
- Know the UK Highway Code to a good level
- Speak and understand instructions in English
The documents required in order to take a CBT is one of the following valid licences:
- Full UK Driving Licence
- UK Provisional Driving Licence
- EU Driving Licence which has been registered with the DVLA using a D9 Form.
You will also need to know your National Insurance number so that the instructor can perform a licence check on the day of training.
What happens during CBT Training?
There are 5 parts of a CBT Test, these elements, each which need to be successfully completed in order and have been set by the Driver and Vehicles Standards Agency (DVSA):
Introduction and Eyesight Check - Your instructor will brief you on what to expect during the training and test you can read a registration plate at a distance of 20.5 meters. You may wear glasses is you use them.
On-Site Training - This is the first part of your practical motorcycle training. It will deal with the very basics of motorcycle checks and controls.
On-Site Riding - The instructor will teach you maneuvers, braking, observations, clutch control and gear changing (on a manual motorcycle). You’ll spend a lot of time riding around cones, practicing different scenarios and techniques.
On-Road Training - You instructor will assess your knowledge of the UK Highway Code in order to prepare for the final element of on road riding. It’s a requirement to have a good understanding before you take the CBT.
On-Road Riding - This is a 2 hour minimum road ride which will take place on various roads around the test site. You will be in a group no larger than 2 students with your instructor.
Frequently Asked Questions about CBT Training:
How much is CBT Training?
How much does a CBT cost is a common question. The cost of CBT Training ranges between location but most range between £100-£150. The price variance is due to instructor costs such as rental and gear overheads.
How long does a CBT test take?
The CBT Test takes between 6-8 hours on one day. This motorcycle training consists of 5 parts and each part is required to be complete before moving on to the next part of the day.
How long is a CBT valid for?
A CBT is valid for 2 years. After the two years, you will be eligible for a CBT renewal. This means that you will be able to use your own bike for your CBT training and typically this will save you money for your instruction.
How much does a CBT course cost?
CBT courses cost between £90 and £160 in the UK. In London the average CBT course costs £115. The difference in cost is due to differing rental costs and demand for training.
Can you fail a CBT?
No. You CANNOT fail a CBT. A CBT is training and if you are unsafe during your training then you may be asked to come back for some further training at a later date. This will be at an extra cost to the student who’s paying for further instruction.
What do you wear to CBT Training?
For your CBT Training where thick trousers such as jeans andboots. Boots that cover the ankles to protect you from the heat of the vehicle. Also, if it is cold or warm, wear appropriate clothing to brave the elements.
Can I ride a 250cc on L plates?
No. A CBT certificate requires you to display L plates at all points. On a CBT certificate you can ride up to a 125cc motorcycle if you are above the age of 17. If you are 16 you can ride up to a 50cc.
Can I ride a moped without a CBT?
No. You will need a CBT certificate to ride a moped, scooter or motorcycle in the UK. However, if you took your full UK driving licence before 2001 you will be able to ride a 50cc on your car licence.
Can I take motorbike lessons?
Before your CBT Training if you are unsure or uncomfortable you can take an introductory to motorcycling course (ITM). Unlike, a driving test you do not need an extensive amount of lessons to gain your CBT License.
Is there CBT Training Near Me?
RideTo has over 120 sites in the UK with 26 sites in London. RideTo has the best availability for CBT Training across the UK. Search and compare CBT Training in London, Manchester, Birmingham, Bristol, Southampton, Portsmouth, Brighton, Cardiff, Bournemouth, Derby, Leeds, Nottingham and more.
I am interested in a Direct Access Course.
After you pass your CBT test, you will need to take your theory before looking to book your full motorcycle license or Direct Access Course.
What can I ride after the CBT Training?
You can chose to do your CBT Training on either a manual motorcycle or an automatic scooter when you make your CBT Training booking. There is currently not a restriction to which type of bike you take your CBT Training on stopping you from riding different transmissions. Legally you can train on a scooter and ride a manual 125cc motorcycle, however we’d highly recommend training for riding a manual bike first, such as the gear conversion course.
If you pass your CBT Training and you are 16 years old you can ride up to 50cc and if you’re over the age of 17 you can ride an automatic scooter or manual motorcycle up to 125cc.
The CBT Certificate you are awarded when you complete your CBT training is valid for a period of 2 years.
RideTo would always recommend that you do your CBT on a manual motorcycle if you are planning on riding a manual bike on the roads. More training is always better when it comes to motorcycling.
Ready to book your CBT Training? Start here.