Requirements to sit your motorcycle test
The first requirement to sit your motorcycle tests is a provisional motorcycle licence. You can apply here if you are over 15 years and 9 months old, and can read a number plate from 20 metres. The whole process now requires a Government Gateway ID, which can take some time to set up. Your provisional licence also covers cars if you want to drive one of those too. It costs £34.
Once you have your provisional licence, you can apply to take your theory test. If you’re over the age of 16, you can apply to get a moped (<50cc) licence. If you’re over the age of 17, you can get a motorcycle licence. The theory test can be taken at any time, before or after you have completed the minimum Compulsory Basic Training (CBT).
The theory test has three sections: the Highway Code, traffic signs knowledge, and the essentials of riding. You can get books, CDs, and apps to help you revise.
Practice
Safe practice on your moped or motorcycle is essential if you are to pass your test. You can go to special circuits or private land to test your skills. If you do so, please only do so with an experienced instructor. There is a minimum number of hours practice with an instructor you need to do, so make sure you get your hours logged.
You can take practice theory tests online to see if you know enough to take your test.
What you will need for your practical test
The first thing you will need at your test is your UK photocard driving licence. Then you will need your pass certificate from your theory test, a moped or motorcycle (check the rules), your certificate of CBT, and module 1 pass (for module 2).
If you do not have the required documents at your test, it will be cancelled and you will not receive a refund.
If you have lost your licence, it can take up to 15 days to get a replacement. Rearranging your test is easy and free, so if you think you might miss your test or cannot make it, get in contact with the testing centre and rearrange.
A paper licence will be sufficient only with a valid passport. If you don’t have a passport, you can get a photocard licence.
What not to take into the test
When you are taking your test, you cannot have personal items like mobile phones, bags, watches, or bags. There are lockers provided for your personal belongings. Be aware you will be checked to see if you have anything that you could use to help you cheat. It is an offense to cheat on a driving test, you could be sent to jail and banned from driving.
Taking the test
To pass the practical part of your motorcycle test, there are a couple of modules you need to sit within 2 years of passing your theory test.
Module 1 off road test
This is a 20 minute test that measures your ability to manoeuvre in an off-road area. A number of conditions have to be met before you get a pass. Once you have passed this module, you can move on to Module 2.
Module 2 on road test
A 40 minute test that includes an eyesight check, the standard “show me, tell me” safety questions, a demonstration of your road riding skills, and independent riding.
Take both tests at the same time
You can take both Module 1 and Module 2 at the same time if you want, but if you fail Module 1, you have to wait 3 days before retaking it. You may or may not get refunded for the Module 2 test you didn’t take. If you fail Module 2, you have to wait another 10 days before you can take it again.
Costs
The theory test costs £23, any time.
Module 1 (off road) costs £15.50.
Module 2 (on road) costs £75 on a weekday or £88.50 on a weekend, evening, or bank holiday.
If you have been disqualified and are reapplying for your licence, it will cost £150 on a weekday, £177 on an evening, weekend, or bank holiday.
Book your practical test
Once you’ve done your theory tests, you’re ready for your practical. Good luck!