A Car Driver's Guide to the UK's Insane Motorbike Licence System
Back in June, I wrote about buying my first 125cc scooter in Spain, where all you need to ride one is a valid car licence. I rode that scooter all summer and loved it. It was perfect for nipping to the coast, shopping trips to Lidl, or cruising the stunning coastal roads.
Sadly, the love affair hit a snag on longer trips. The little 125cc engine, while brilliant around town, struggled on motorways or steep hills, often maxing out at 60kph while cars flew past at 100kph. It was clear: we're gonna need a bigger bike! (Hum the Jaws theme here).
So, on my return to Northern Ireland, I started the process of getting my full motorbike licence. Simple, you'd think. Think again.
The UK's Motorbike Licence Labyrinth
I don't know the history of how we ended up with such a messed-up pathway to riding a motorbike in the UK, but it's a bureaucratic nightmare. Unlike in Spain, you can't just hop on a 125cc with your car licence. First, you have to navigate this multi-stage system.
Stage 1: The CBT (Compulsory Basic Training)
This is the mandatory starting point for everyone. It's a day-long course covering the basics of riding. If you pass, you get a certificate allowing you to ride a bike up to 125cc with L-plates.
- Restrictions: No passengers, no motorways.
- Cost: Government websites suggest £130-£170. The real-world cost I found was closer to £250, with a 3-4 month waiting list. I was told this is due to soaring insurance costs and a shortage of instructors.
Stage 2: The Staged Licences (A1, A2, A)
This is where it gets truly bonkers. There isn't one bike test; there are three, each tied to age and engine power.
- A1 Licence (Age 17+): Lets you ride a 125cc bike without L-plates.
- A2 Licence (Age 19+): Lets you ride a bike up to around 400-500cc.
- A Licence (Age 24+): The full, unrestricted licence for any bike.
If you are under 24, you have to work your way through the stages. Is there any wonder fewer people are bothering to take up motorbiking?
My Journey: The "Direct Access" Route
Because I'm over 24, I was able to take the "Direct Access Scheme" (DAS), which lets you bypass the A1/A2 stages and go straight for the full A Licence. You still have to do the CBT first, and then pass your theory test and two practical tests (Mod 1 and Mod 2).
My instructor advised this was the most logical route. The goal was to ride a 400cc scooter in Spain (requiring an A2 licence), but since I had to do the CBT anyway, it made sense to just get the full, unrestricted A licence and be done with it.
This presented one major challenge. To get a full A licence, you must take your test on a 600cc+ geared motorbike. As a lifelong cyclist and scooter rider, my muscle memory is hard-wired: left lever is a brake. On a geared bike, the left lever is the clutch, the gears are on your left foot, and the rear brake is on your right foot.
It's been a steep learning curve trying to overcome decades of instinct! But after a few lessons, I'm just about getting to grips with it.
Why Bother?
This is the sad thing. Motorbikes are a fantastic form of transport. They're efficient, cause less congestion, and produce fewer emissions than cars. They are a win-win for everyone. Getting a licence should be as simple and safe as possible, not stupidly complex and expensive.
Update April 2025: Success!
Well, I'm happy to report that after a winter of weekly lessons (when the NI weather and my trips to Spain permitted!), I passed! I got my full, unrestricted A licence at the end of March 2025.
I have to give a massive shout-out to my instructor, Paul Hunter Motorcycle Training in Downpatrick, whose patience and expert guidance were invaluable. With his help, I managed to pass the theory, Mod 1, and Mod 2 tests all on the first attempt.
So, for every 'older' gentleman out there thinking of getting into motorbiking but worried about the hassle or their age: don't be. If I can get to grips with a clutch and gears and pass all the tests at 58, anyone can!