Do I need Compulsory Bike Training (CBT) to Ride a Motorcycle?

Compulsory Basic Training (CBT)

In the United Kingdom, compulsory basic training (CBT) is a course that is mandatory for individuals who seek the privilege to ride a moped or motorcycle on the road. Usually completed prior to attempting a full moped or motorcycle test, the training every driver undergoes is designed specifically to ensure that they are able to operate their vehicles with safety, and responsibility.
However, despite the obligatory nature of going through the CBT process, It is important to note that CBT is still not a test that can be passed or failed. Rather, it is a series of exercises and assessments that are created to evaluate a rider’s abilities and knowledge. Upon completion of CBT, individuals are then permitted to ride a moped if they are 16 or older, or a motorcycle up to 125cc and with a power output of up to 11kW if they are 17 or older. It is mandatory to use L plates (L or D plates in Wales) when riding after completing your CBT. It is worth noting too that individuals who successfully complete their CBT must also subsequently pass their full moped or motorcycle test within 2 years, otherwise, they will be required to retake CBT or stop riding altogether. Those who are caught do not without a valid CBT certificate may receive a hefty fine of up to £1,000 and receive up to 6 penalty points against their record.

Exemptions from Compulsory Basic Training (CBT)

There are certain circumstances, however, in which prospective motorbike riders may be
exempt from taking CBT. They are the following:

If the rider wishes to operate a moped (up to 50cc) and passed their car driving test before 1 February 2001
If the rider wishes to ride a motorcycle and possesses a full moped licence from passing a moped test since 1 December 1990
If the rider has a full motorcycle licence for one category and desires to upgrade to another
If the rider is operating their vehicle on certain offshore islands
If the rider wishes to use a trial e-scooter; all of these scenarios are free from the need of completing CBT

Summary

But in summary, aside from a few minor exceptions, CBT still remains a mandatory course for men and women who wish to use a moped or motorcycle on the road in the United Kingdom. The training is designed to ensure that riders are able to control their vehicles safely and responsibly and is one of the preliminary steps crossed, prior to attempting a full moped or motorcycle test. If these requirements are not met, you risk the result of substantial fines, penalty points on your licence, or worse, tragedy on the road.

Although we may not like them at times when they slow us down in getting what we want (whether it be obtaining our licence or making it to our destination quicker when in a rush), remember still that traffic laws are in place to facilitate the safety and well-being of all individuals on the road, including drivers, passengers, pedestrians, and bicyclists, and, of course, you. These laws are designed to regulate the behaviour of drivers and other road users, in order to as efficiently as possible reduce the risk of accidents and injuries. Traffic laws are also ratified to establish a sense of orderly conduct on the roadways. Controlling the flow of traffic, preventing congestion, and making it possible for people to ultimately reach their destinations safely and efficiently are all the primary purposes of traffic laws. Therefore it is best practice for you to obey them always so that we can all be comfortable, secure, and courteous on the roads.