CBT, or Compulsory Basic Training, is a DVSA-regulated motorcycle and moped training course for learner riders in Great Britain. It is not a pass-or-fail test: you complete it when your instructor is satisfied you can ride safely. A DL196 certificate lasts 2 years and lets most riders ride up to 125cc, maximum 11kW, with L plates from age 17, or a 50cc moped from age 16.
Last reviewed 9 July 2026 by the Universal Motorcycle Training® instructor team.
Compulsory Basic Training, usually called CBT, is the starting point for most people who want to ride a moped or motorcycle on public roads in Great Britain. It gives learner riders the basic knowledge and practical skills needed to continue learning safely.
What is CBT?
CBT is a structured course of motorcycle or moped training. It is not a conventional pass-or-fail test and you do not receive a score. Your instructor moves you through the syllabus only when you have understood the theory and demonstrated the practical skills to a safe basic level.
The course has five elements:
- Introduction and eyesight check.
- Practical on-site training, including controls and safety checks.
- Practical on-site riding, covering moving off, stopping, slow control and manoeuvring.
- Practical on-road training, a briefing on dealing with traffic and hazards.
- Practical on-road riding under radio supervision.
The final road ride must last at least two hours. A DL196 certificate can only be issued after all five elements have been completed satisfactorily. CBT is training rather than a test, but attendance alone does not guarantee completion.
Who needs CBT?
Most learner riders must complete CBT before riding a moped or motorcycle unaccompanied on public roads. Afterwards, a rider aged 16 or over may ride a moped. From age 17, a learner may ride a motorcycle up to 125cc and 11kW. L plates must be displayed at the front and rear, or D plates may be used in Wales.
The main exceptions include:
- riding a moped up to 50cc after passing a car driving test before 1 February 2001;
- holding a full moped licence gained by passing a moped test on or after 1 December 1990.
If you passed your car test on or after 1 February 2001, you normally need CBT even to gain full moped entitlement.
What should you bring and wear?
Bring your original UK driving licence. You will complete an eyesight check, so bring and wear any glasses or contact lenses you need for riding.
Wear a compliant motorcycle helmet, motorcycle gloves, a suitable jacket, protective trousers, and motorcycle boots or sturdy footwear that supports the ankles. Heavy denim is an acceptable option for a jacket or trousers, although motorcycle-specific clothing provides purpose-designed protection. Check beforehand whether loan equipment is available, as unsuitable clothing can stop the course.
Dress for the weather. Much of the course is outdoors, including at least two hours on the road.
How long does CBT take?
CBT usually takes a full day, and DVSA expects the overall course to take at least a day when delivered to the required standard. There is no guaranteed finishing time, because riders progress at different rates. Some riders need further training on another day before completing the course.
What is the DL196 certificate?
When you complete CBT, your instructor issues a DL196 certificate. It records the result on your driving licence and allows you to ride under learner conditions.
A DL196 normally lasts for two years from its issue date. Eligible riders may ride a moped or motorcycle up to 125cc and 11kW with L plates. Learner riders cannot carry a pillion passenger or use motorways. If you do not obtain the relevant full licence before the certificate expires, you must complete CBT again or stop riding as a learner. A different rule applies where CBT validates full moped entitlement on a full car licence.
Keep the certificate safe, as you may need it when taking your motorcycle tests.
What can you do after CBT?
CBT is often the first stage towards a full motorcycle licence. The right route depends on your age and any entitlement you already hold.
An A1 licence is available from age 17 and covers motorcycles up to 125cc and 11kW. An A2 licence is available from age 19 and covers motorcycles up to 35kW, subject to power-to-weight and derivation limits. The full Category A licence is unrestricted, available from 24 by direct access or from 21 through progressive access after holding an A2 licence for two years. Passing your tests on an automatic motorcycle restricts the resulting licence to those transmission types.
CBT FAQs
Can I fail CBT?
CBT is not a pass-or-fail examination. You receive a DL196 only when your instructor is satisfied that you have completed every element and reached the required safe basic standard.
Do I need to pass the theory test before CBT?
No. You can normally complete CBT before passing the motorcycle theory test. The theory test is generally required before the practical tests for a full licence.
Can I ride my own motorcycle to the course?
Only if you already have a valid CBT certificate or another legal entitlement to ride it. A first-time learner cannot ride a motorcycle to the course without valid entitlement.
Can I carry a passenger after CBT?
No. CBT gives learner entitlement, not a full motorcycle licence. You must display L plates and cannot carry a pillion passenger or ride on motorways.
Book CBT with Universal Motorcycle Training
Universal Motorcycle Training runs CBT seven days a week across our seven centres in Alperton, Croydon, Dagenham, Edgware, Eltham, Wimbledon and Hoddesdon. Choose the location that suits you, read your joining instructions, and arrive prepared for a full day of practical, safety-focused training. Book your CBT today.
This guide is based on current DVSA guidance published on GOV.UK and is for general information only.