CBT Training (AM License)

CBT Course

Compulsory Basic Training

In 1990 the government introduced CBT as a legal requirement. CBT is a course of Compulsory Basic Training which must be completed before a learner moped or motorcycle rider is allowed to ride unaccompanied on the road with L-plates. There is no test involved in a CBT course but you will have to reach a good level of safe competent riding in order to complete the course successfully. The course is a full day of training and most people reach the required standard in that time, even if they have not ridden a motorcycle before.

PLEASE NOTE: You need to hold either a provisional or full driving licence, and be 16 years old or over.

You will need to complete CBT if you want to ride a moped or motorcycle with an engine size up to 125cc (or if your 16 years old your engine size up to 50cc).

PLEASE NOTE: If you obtained your car licence before 1st February 2001, you do not need to complete a CBT to ride a 50cc moped but it is advisable. What does CBT involve?

The CBT course involves five elements:

•  Introduction (covering legal requirements)
•  Practical off road training – This focuses on learning the motorcycle’s controls, basic maintenance, and understanding how to handle the machine.
•  Practical off road riding – This involves practicing essential skills like starting, stopping, and maneuvering the motorcycle in a safe, off-road environment.
•  Practical on road training – This involves a briefing on road safety, traffic laws, and practicing on-road riding skills in a controlled environment.
•  Practical on road riding (this must be at least two hours)
•  You must complete all 5 parts to gain your CBT Certificate (DL196)

When all five elements have been satisfactorily completed a certificate of completion called the DL196 is issued. This is a legal document which validates the provisional part of your licence where motorcycles are concerned. It is important that the holder of a DL196 considers the following points:

A DL196 certificate validating a provisional moped or provisional motorcycle entitlement lasts for only two years.

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. You will therefore need to keep your DL196 certificate safe.

Please note that this applies to mopeds only, for riding any machine greater than a 50cc the DL196 remains valid for only two years.