Motorcycle Training – FAQs

You will need to pass a Theory Test before taking a practical test for a moped or motorcycle, unless you have passed a moped test since 1 July 1996.

The Theory Test Pass Certificate is valid for two years. The practical test must be passed within this period otherwise the Theory Test will have to be taken again.

There are three types of full motorcycle licence to aim for:

1. A light motorcycle licence (A1) , which restricts riders to any bike up to 125cc and a power output of 11kW (14.6bhp). The practical test must be taken on a bike of between 75cc and 125cc.
   
2. A standard motorcycle licence (A2) is obtained if the practical test is taken on a bike of over 120cc but not more than 125cc and capable of at least 100km per hour.
   
3. A large motorcycle licence (A) (DAS or accelerated access) is obtained if the practical test is taken on a bike with a power output of at least 35kW (46.5bhp)

After passing the standard motorcycle practical test, you will be restricted for two years to riding a bike of up to 25kW (33bhp) and a power/weight ratio not exceeding 0.16kW/kg. After this you may ride any size of bike.

There is a large range of bikes that meet this restriction as standard and there are also limited power versions of more powerful bikes available from most manufacturers. Restriction kits are also available for a wider range of older and modern machines.

On passing the large motorcycle practical test you can discard your L plates and ride any motorcycle.

You will need to complete a CBT if:

• You want to ride a motorcycle.
• You want to ride a moped.

However, if you obtained your car licence before February 1, 2001, you do not need to complete a CBT to ride a moped.

Our motorcycle training centre is the largest sole purpose in Dundee and the surrounding area. It’s more than 3000 meters square and has its own road layout featuring a roundabout and junctions.

You can return to us on another day – free of charge – to complete your CBT.

The main instructors are Alan and Heather Kelly, who have more than 40 years’ bike riding experience. Alan is a Cardington DSA-Qualified Instructor.

The CBT course syllabus includes five elements that have to be completed in sequence:

1. Element A - Introduction.
2. Element B - Practical on-site training.
3. Element C - Practical on-site riding.
4. Element D - Practical on-road training.
5. Element E - Practical on-road riding.

The DL196 is a legal document, which serves to validate the relevant entitlements on the driving licence. It is important that the holder of a DL196 certificate considers the following points:

A DL196 certificate entitlement lasts for two years.  CBT will have to be retaken if both theory and practical tests are not passed within the two-year certificate life.

For moped entitlement only, if you pass your car driving test whilst your DL196 is still current or complete a CBT course and obtain a DL196 after passing your car test, the certificate is not subject to expiry.

Please note that this applies to mopeds only ... the DL196 remains valid for two years for riding motorcycles as a learner.

Once you have successfully completed the CBT, you are advised to take additional training to pass your tests and qualify for a full motorcycle or moped licence.

Various factors influence how much pre-test training you require but we will cover all the DSA test elements and tailor the training to your needs.

The differences between the bikes you used to ride and today’s bikes can be astounding. So a refresher course is a very good idea … think of it as developing the riding abilities you already possess.

The Enhanced Rider Scheme (ERS) is training designed for fully licensed motorcyclists who would like to improve certain areas of their riding skills.

As well as developing new skills, you can also get insurance discounts with the majority of motorcycle insurance brokers.

We have a selection of helmets, gloves and waterproofs for use while training but you will need to wear sturdy boots, jacket and trousers. Not trackies, trainers and a hoodie.

Yes, having a good knowledge of the Highway Code before coming along for CBT will make the whole experience more enjoyable (and safer) for you. We will ask you some questions before heading out on the road, if we feel your knowledge of the highway code is lacking we will not take you out on the road and we will charge you to come back and finish the course.

It is much easier for us to book training over the phone, there is no delay in confirming dates and times, we can get the information we need from you, pass on what you need to know and we can also answer your queries.

Most of our day is spent training out on the road, however if you leave your name and number we will call you back in the evening.