At What Age Can You Take a CBT? CBT Age Restrictions

About the CBT

CBT, or Compulsory Basic Training, is a required training course for anyone in the UK wanting to ride a moped or motorcycle. It includes:

1. Introduction and Theory: Covers riding basics, the Highway Code, and safety equipment.
2. Practical Off-Road Training: Teaches handling and control in a secure off-road area. 
3. Practical On-Road Training: Applies skills in real traffic conditions.
4. Assessment: The instructor will evaluate the learner’s ability to ride safely.

After completing the CBT, you can ride on the road with L-plates on a motorcycle up to 125cc. The certificate lasts for two years, after which you can pursue a full motorcycle licence.

The minimum age you can take a CBT

In the UK, the minimum age you can take a CBT is 16 years old. At this age, riders are allowed to operate certain types of motorcycles and mopeds, but with restrictions.

• At 16:

  • Power Limit: Riders can only ride a moped (up to 50cc engine and limited to 28mph).

• At 17:

  • Power Limit: Once a rider turns 17, they are eligible to ride a motorcycle up to 125cc with a power output of up to 11kW (about 14.6 bhp).

Post-CBT Licence Progressions by Age

After successfully completing your Compulsory Basic Training (CBT), you’ll receive a certificate (DL196) valid for two years, allowing you to ride within specific power and licence restrictions based on your age. How you progress to a higher licence will depend on your age.

If you’re 16 years old:

• At this age, you can ride a moped with up to a 50cc engine, limited to 28mph. If you’re aiming to progress to a full licence, this journey includes passing your motorcycle theory test and choosing between a comprehensive full licence course or the individual Mod 1 & Mod 2 tests. However, even with a full licence, you remain restricted to a 50cc moped until you turn 17. 

If you’re 17-18 years old:

• You can advance to riding a moped or motorbike with a maximum output of 125cc, though you must adhere to certain restrictions. Progressing to a full licence at this stage involves passing the motorcycle theory exam and then opting for either a full licence training program or separate Mod 1 and Mod 2 training and tests. Obtaining an A1 licence allows you to ride a 125cc scooter or motorbike freely—no need for L plates, plus you can carry a passenger and travel on motorways. For an in-depth understanding of what this entails, check out What is a CBT Licence?

If you’re 19 or older:

• The next step is upgrading from your CBT to a full A2 licence, which requires passing the theory test and then booking a full licence package or passing your Mod 1 and Mod 2 tests separately. An A2 licence permits you to ride motorcycles up to 35kW (450cc to 600cc) without any restrictions. After holding an A2 licence for two years, you become eligible to test for the unrestricted A licence.

If you’re 24 or over:

• You can opt for the Direct Access Scheme (DAS), which allows you to bypass the lower-powered bike stages and directly access riding powerful, unrestricted motorcycles. If you already hold a full licence from ages 19 to 23 and are now 24 or older, you simply need to pass a practical test to transition to a full A unrestricted licence.

Learn more about the licensing requirements and progression from the CBT in our guide to motorcycle licences.

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FAQs

Can you do your CBT at 16?

Yes, you can complete your Compulsory Basic Training (CBT) at 16. Once you pass, you’ll be able to ride a moped with an engine size up to 50cc and a maximum speed of 28mph.

Can you ride a restricted 125cc at 16?

No, at 16, you are limited to riding a moped up to 50cc. You cannot ride a 125cc motorcycle until you are at least 17 years old.

Can a 17 year old ride a 125 on a CBT?

Yes, a 17-year-old can ride a motorcycle or scooter up to 125cc with a maximum power output of 11kW on a CBT certificate. They must display L plates and cannot carry passengers or ride on motorways.

What can I ride on a CBT at 25?

At 25, if you have only completed a CBT, you are still restricted to riding a motorcycle or scooter up to 125cc with a maximum power of 11kW. To ride larger and more powerful bikes, you would need to pass further tests to obtain an A1, A2 or full A-licence, depending on your experience and training.