In order to take your practical motorcycle test you must first complete a Compulsory Basic Training course and a Theory Test.

Compulsory Basic Training

Compulsory Basic Training is a short course containing 5 elements :

• Introduction
• Practical on-site training
• Practical on-site riding
• Practical on-road training
• Practical on-site riding

You must complete the elements in sequence and your trainer must be confident in your ability in an element before you will be allowed to move onto the next. Once you have completed all 5 sections, you will be given a DL 196 Certificate of Completion which is valid for 2 years. You must present a valid DL 196 certificate to the examiner at the beginning of your practical motorcycle test

The Theory Test

The theory test is broken up into two sections – you must pass both of the sections in order to gain your certificate.

Part One – Is a multiple choice section which will test you on your knowledge of the Highway Code. You will be asked 35 questions and you have up to 40 minutes in which to answer them. You must get 30 of the 35 questions correct in order to pass.

Part Two – Is called Hazard Perception and will test your awareness on the road. The test is delivered on a computer and you must respond by clicking a button on the mouse. The pass mark for the hazard perception section of the test is 44 out of 75.

The Practical Test

Before the Test

The practical test starts with an eyesight check where you will be asked to read a number plate at a specified distance.

You will then be asked a series of machine safety questions which are checks that a rider should be able to answer out to ensure their vehicle is fit for use.

During the Test

You will be fitted with an ear piece through which your examiner will give you clear directions and instructions throughout your test. Throughout the test you will be marked on motorcycle control and your reaction to day-to-day road conditions. You will also be asked to perform manoeuvres which may include:

• An emergency stop
• A Wheeling/stand exercise
• A U-turn exercise
• A slow ride exercise

After the Test

If you pass – You will receive a pass certificate from the examiner which will allow you to send off for your full licence.

If you fail – You should ask the examiner for some feedback to help you as you are preparing for your next test.