UK Motorcycle Licence Courses and Training

This section contains information about the process of obtaining a motorcycle licence in the United Kingdom (UK) and recommended courses based on discussions and shared experiences in group chats.

The following steps are generally followed to ride a motorcycle in the UK:

• CBT (Compulsory Basic Training): This is the first step to getting started on a motorcycle. CBT usually lasts one day and does not include a written or track test. Once completed, the CBT qualifies you to ride a motorcycle up to 125cc and is valid for two years. If a full licence is not obtained within that time, the CBT must be repeated.

• Theory Test: This is a separate test for motorcycles. For those who already have a car licence, only around 10% of the theory questions are motorcycle-specific. Mobile apps are available to prepare. Passing this test is a key step in the licensing process.

• Module 1 Test: A track-based test in a closed area. The test layout is often compact, and it can be difficult to pass without real-life practice. Training is highly recommended. Module 2 cannot be taken unless Module 1 is passed.

• Module 2 Motorcycle Test: This is the on-road riding test and lasts approximately 30–40 minutes.

• DAS (Direct Access Scheme): This allows riders aged 24+ (or 21+ with 2 years A2 licence) to obtain a full motorcycle licence. This route is especially useful for those with previous riding experience (e.g., in Türkiye). DAS is typically offered as a training and testing package.

Note: Those without a car licence can still ride with a provisional licence, but they cannot go beyond the CBT stage unless they later obtain a full car licence.

Here are some training centres that were tried and recommended by group members:

• Lightning Pass
  • Offers an Intermediate DAS course.
  • Cost is typically around £800, including exams. Yilmaz paid £766 using their online booking system.
  • Offers continuous training and has 3 different locations for express programmes.
  • One of the most frequently recommended centres.
  • Mixed reviews: While Ozan D. had a good CBT experience, he reported issues with Module 1 and Module 2, advising caution unless no alternatives are available.
  • Gokhan D. recommended Lightning Pass for DAS.

• BMW Rider Training
  • Offers a 5-day intensive course.
  • Provides full equipment, including BMW motorcycles (e.g., F750GS).
  • Recommended and tested by group members.
  • Oguzhan Yalcin received his training here.

• Passmasters
  • Listed among the DAS course providers recommended by Gokhan D.

• Alphamct
  • Gokhan D. completed his CBT at this centre.
  • Known for high turnover and availability.
  • Phone conversations were helpful in clarifying language support and other issues.

• Twickenham Motorcycle Training
  • Located near the racecourse on the Hampton side.
  • Mixed experiences:
    • Şafak Oncu found the site closed on arrival, and the training area was not set up.
    • Phone support was reportedly difficult to reach.
    • Erman experienced language and communication issues during instruction and felt dismissed by the trainer.
    • Gokhan D. noted lack of customer orientation when enquiring about DAS.

• For experienced riders, a short course (even a few hours) can be enough to prepare for the tests.
• It is important to experience a real-size Module 1 track. Choose a training centre that uses a layout similar to actual test centres.
• Language proficiency is crucial. Instructors communicate via radio devices. Some centres may not accept trainees with limited English proficiency. Erman’s experience highlighted this issue.
• Start with centres that others have tested and recommended (e.g., Lightning Pass, BMW Rider Training).

While not part of the licensing process, these courses can enhance riding skills and confidence:

• IAM (Institute of Advanced Motorists) and RoSPA (The Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents) are respected advanced riding organisations in the UK.
  • Oguzhan Yalcin shared that IAM offers more opportunities.
  • IAM’s “Advanced Rider” training can be taken for £219, and members can join local IAM clubs.
  • These organisations often have ties to police training initiatives.
  • Ender mentioned doing a few observed rides with IAM five years ago and wishes to resume.

• BikeSafe-style training
  • A full-day ride with a serving police officer who observes and gives feedback.
  • Baran Under found it particularly valuable.

This document is based on shared experiences within the group and may be updated as more members complete training or take exams.