DAS (Full Motorcycle Licence)

Direct Access Scheme (DAS) – Full Motorcycle Licence Training

The Direct Access Scheme (DAS) is the route that lets riders aged 24 or over, or 21 or over via progressive access from A2, train on a larger motorcycle and take the practical tests for the full unrestricted Category A licence. You can check the official GOV.UK motorcycle licence category rules.

Universal Motorcycle Training® provides DAS training for riders who are ready to move beyond learner restrictions and work towards the full Category A motorcycle licence. Our role is to help you prepare properly, ride safely, understand the DVSA test standard and build the control, judgement and confidence needed for Module 1 and Module 2.

What is the Direct Access Scheme?

DAS is the full motorcycle licence route for eligible riders who want to ride unrestricted motorcycles. Instead of taking the practical tests on a smaller learner motorcycle, your training and tests are taken on a larger motorcycle that meets the Category A test requirements.

Once you have passed the required practical tests, the resulting Category A licence is unrestricted. This means you are no longer limited to learner motorcycles or A2 power limits, provided you meet the usual road, insurance and licence conditions.

Who can take DAS?

You can take the direct access route for a full Category A motorcycle licence from age 24.

You may also qualify from age 21 through progressive access if you have held a full A2 motorcycle licence for at least 2 years. This progressive route still requires practical testing on a suitable Category A motorcycle, but a further motorcycle theory test is not normally required when upgrading from A2 in this way.

What do I need before DAS training?

Before DAS training and testing, you normally need a valid CBT certificate. The CBT certificate is called a DL196 and is valid for 2 years. CBT is training, not a pass or fail test, and it must be valid on the date you train and test unless you already hold the correct motorcycle entitlement.

You also need a motorcycle theory test pass before taking the practical tests, unless you are upgrading through progressive access from A2 and the theory requirement does not apply to your situation. The practical motorcycle test has 2 parts: Module 1, which is the off-road test, and Module 2, which is the on-road test. You can read more on GOV.UK motorcycle practical tests.

What does the DAS course involve?

The DAS course involves training on a larger motorcycle with DVSA-qualified instructors. Your training is designed to prepare you for the standard expected on the practical tests and for safe riding after you gain your full licence.

Training normally covers machine control, moving away and stopping smoothly, slow control, use of gears, braking, observations, positioning, junctions, roundabouts, bends, speed control, hazard awareness and on-road decision-making. You will also prepare for the set exercises used in Module 1 and the real-road riding standard assessed in Module 2.

The amount of training needed depends on your experience, current riding standard and confidence on a larger motorcycle. We do not treat DAS as a formality. The aim is to build safe, consistent riding that meets DVSA expectations and gives you a clear route to the full Category A licence.

What to bring

Please bring the correct documents and suitable clothing with you. If anything essential is missing, your training or test may not be able to go ahead.

• Original valid UK driving licence.
• Valid CBT certificate, also known as DL196.
• Motorcycle theory test pass certificate, where required.
• Glasses or contact lenses if you need them for riding.
• Suitable protective clothing: helmet – loan helmets available, motorcycle gloves, suitable jacket, sturdy trousers and boots that protect the ankles.

Course fees

DAS packages start from £1,090. The full package options and what each includes are shown in the package table below on this page.

Please check the package table before booking so you choose the option that best matches your current experience and training needs.

Where we train

Universal Motorcycle Training® provides motorcycle training from seven centres across London and Hertfordshire:

• Alperton
• Croydon
• Dagenham
• Edgware
• Eltham
• Wimbledon
• Hoddesdon

Most centres operate seven days a week, giving riders more choice when planning training around work, study and other commitments.

Why train with us

Our DAS training is delivered by DVSA-qualified instructors who understand the full motorcycle licence route, the practical test structure and the common areas where riders need support when moving onto larger motorcycles.

We offer seven training centres, training seven days a week at most centres, and a clear route from CBT to full licence. That means you can start with the basics, progress through theory and practical preparation, and work towards Module 1 and Module 2 with a structured plan.

Secure your spot

Booking online is required. To reserve your place, use our online booking system: Book your DAS course online.

If you need help before booking, email [email protected] and our team will guide you towards the most suitable next step.

FAQ

What is a Category A motorcycle licence?

A Category A motorcycle licence is the unrestricted full motorcycle licence. Once you have passed, you can ride motorcycles of any size or power, subject to normal road, insurance and licence conditions.

What age can I do DAS for a full Category A licence?

You can take the direct access route for Category A from age 24. You may also qualify from age 21 through progressive access if you have held a full A2 licence for at least two years.

Do I need CBT and theory before a Category A motorcycle test?

For direct access you normally need a valid CBT certificate if you do not already have the right motorcycle entitlement, and you must pass the motorcycle theory test before the practical tests. If you are upgrading through progressive access from A2, a further theory test is not normally required, but the practical tests still apply.

What practical tests are involved in getting a full motorcycle licence?

The practical motorcycle test has two parts: Module 1 off-road and Module 2 on-road. Module 1 covers set manoeuvres in a test area, while Module 2 assesses your riding on public roads.

What can I ride after passing Category A?

After passing the Category A licence you are no longer restricted to learner bikes or A2 power limits. You can ride unrestricted motorcycles, carry a pillion passenger and use motorways, provided the motorcycle is legal, insured and suitable for the road.