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How to Upgrade Your Motorcycle Licence From a CBT
Olivia C · March 19, 2025
Upgrading from a CBT to a full motorcycle licence is an exciting step that gives you more freedom on the road. Whether you want to ride a more powerful bike, ditch the L plates, or gain more confidence, this guide covers everything you need to know. From passing your motorcycle theory test to choosing the right training course and taking your final tests, here’s how to move up from a CBT to an AM, A1, A2, or full A licence.
Step 1: Pass the Motorcycle Theory Test
Before moving on to your full licence training, you'll need to pass the Motorcycle Theory Test. The motorcycle theory and car theory are treated as different tests, so even if you've already passed your car theory, you'll still have to take the motorcycle theory test.
You can book your theory via the Government's website, where you'll also find a tool to find your nearest test centre.
The test is made up of two parts, you have to pass both sections to pass the test.
Part 1: Motorcycle Theory Test; Multiple-Choice Questions
- 50 multiple-choice questions covering road signs, riding rules, and hazard awareness.
- You need 43 out of 50 to pass.
- You have 57 minutes - flag any questions you're not sure about, you can go back to these later.
Part 2: Hazard Perception Test
- 15 video clips simulating real-world riding conditions.
- You need least 44 out of 75 to pass.
- This will take between 15 and 20 minutes.
- Click as soon as you spot a developing (this is key!) hazard.
- The quicker you react, the higher you score (maximum 5 points per hazard).
If you want to know a little more about how you can practice for the theory test, you can read our in depth blog.
Step 2: Book Your Full Licence Training and Tests (AM, A1, A2 or A-Licence)
The next step is to complete your full licence training - also known as a DAS (Direct Access Scheme).
The full motorcycle licence course combines the training and tests for the two motorcycle tests, called module 1 and module 2.
What Post-CBT Licence Can You Get?
Your age and the bike you train on will dictate what level licence you can ride after passing your A-tier licence.
- Age 16: AM Licence, restricted to ride up to 50cc moped
- Age 17-18: A1 Licence, restricted to ride up to a 125cc scooter or motorbike
- Age 19-23: A2 Licence, restricted to ride up to a 35kw motorbike
- Age 24+: A Licence, no restrictions!
Note: If you take the tests on an automatic geared scooter or motorcycle, you'll be restricted to only ride automatic bikes. Passing on a manual geared bike allows you to ride both.
What Training Package Should You Get?
Each instructor tailors their training based on the needs of the student. However when booking a course, you will usually have a choice of 3 training packages:
- Introduction Course - 16 Hours/ 2 Sessions: 2 days of training without tests - perfect for a new rider looking to start their learning without committing to test dates.
- Intermediate Rider Course - 40 Hours / 5 Sessions: 5 days of training to learn and take both module 1 and 2 tests. Suitable for riders with experience riding on a CBT licence.
- Experienced Rider Course - 32 Hours / 4 Sessions: 4 Days of training to learn and take both module 1 and 2 tests. Only suitable for riders with a lot of experience riding geared bikes in the UK.
Step 3: Pass Your Modules (1 & 2)
A full licence course is made up of the training time it takes to actually learn more advanced theory and methods of ride a motorcycle as well as the tests. Part of this training time is becoming familiar with the two tests you'll need to pass to gain a higher licence. These are called 'modules'.
Module 1 - Manoeuvres
Off road riding; learning the test exercises such as riding in a figure of 8, emergency stop and turn in the road.
Module 2 - Road Riding Skills
On-road test, similar to the car driving test. You'll ride through a variety of road conditions under assessment from an examiner following on a motorcycle.
Ready to upgrade?
Find a Full Licence Course in your area.
