What you need to know about motorcycle CBT
Published 10 July 2025
Last updated 11 July 2025
In this blog our friends at RIDEto discuss the things you need to know to prepare for your motorcycle compulsory basic training.
Know how the roads work
You do not need to pass the motorcycle theory test before doing your compulsory basic training (CBT). You only need to pass the motorcycle theory test if you want to take the practical test to gain your full licence. However, if you do not pass your practical test within 2 years you will have to complete another CBT course.
Theory is still a part of the CBT course, and your understanding of road rules and the Highway Code will be checked throughout your training. Your instructor will be looking at how well you know the rules during both the on-site and on-road parts of the training. That might mean quick questions while you're practising at the training site or just watching how you handle things once you're out on the roads.
It's up to your instructor to decide if you've shown enough knowledge. There's no set way they'll do this, but you should be confident with traffic signs, road markings, and who has priority in different situations. Basically, you need to show that you know how to ride safely and follow the rules of the road.
Not familiar with the Highway Code? Grab a copy of the latest edition on the Safe Driving for Life shop.
Wear the right gear
You can be turned away as soon as you arrive if you're not wearing the right clothes, so it's definitely worth sorting your outfit in advance. You'll need to wear either textile trousers, leather trousers, or thick jeans (nothing ripped!) and motorcycle boots or other sturdy footwear that covers your ankles. Trainers or canvas shoes are not allowed. Most schools will lend you a helmet, gloves, and a proper motorcycle jacket as part of your training cost but check before you arrive!
You’ll also need to think about the weather. You'll be outside for a big chunk of the day, so being comfortable in the elements makes a huge difference. In summer, you’ll want fewer layers and a bit of suncream. In winter, it’s all about warm layers and waterproofs. It’s good practice for dealing with British weather once you’re out riding with your certificate!
It’s a long day
CBT usually takes around six to eight hours, and you’ll be riding out on the road for at least two hours. It’s a full-on day!
Make sure you get a good night’s sleep and eat a proper breakfast before you head off to the training centre, because your only real break will be at lunchtime.
You’ll be learning the whole time, being assessed, and maybe doing something completely new — all of which can be quite tiring. It’s not something people often mention, but turning up well rested, fed and hydrated will make a big difference to how your day goes.
It’s not uncommon to need to book another CBT course
CBT is not a test in the traditional sense (there’s no pass or fail), but that does not mean everyone walks away with a certificate. If your instructor does not feel confident that you’re ready to ride on the roads by yourself, you’ll be asked to come back for another day of training.
This could be for a few different reasons. Maybe you struggled with gears, had trouble balancing the bike, or made a mistake that showed your Highway Code knowledge needs a bit more work. You can be asked to stop at any point during the day — from the eyesight check at the start right through to the road ride at the end. If there’s something you’re finding hard to grasp and there’s not enough time left to work on it, the instructor must move on with the rest of the group. That means you’ll have to call it a day there and get more training.
So do not be disheartened if you have to come back for a second day. You’re definitely not alone, and it does not mean you’re a bad rider. Your instructor is not sending you home to put you off - they’re responsible for your safety, so they need to be confident you can keep up with the pace of the day. Like any new skill, riding takes practice, and sometimes you just need a bit more time with certain parts. In the long run, it’ll only make you a better and safer rider.
Do not forget your licence
If you forget the right documents, you will not be able to do your training and you’ll have to re-book, so double-check you’ve got everything before you leave the house.
You’ll need to bring your UK provisional or full driving licence. If you’ve got an EU licence, you’ll also need to bring the photocard and a returned D9 form. That means you need to have applied for the D9 and received it back before your training day, so we’d recommend waiting until it arrives before you book your CBT.
Completing your CBT course
Now that you’ve read about the motorcycle CBT course, if you feel ready to book it, you can search for a local provider. They will help answer any questions you might have about the equipment they provide and their availability.
Remember that even when you receive your CBT certificate, you need to display L plates, (L or D plates if you’re in Wales). It’s the law! Do not forget — while the CBT course may give you a certificate and the right to ride on your motorcycle or moped, you’ll still be learning and gaining experience each time you go out. You may be exempt from displaying L plates if you already have a driver’s licence and are riding a moped — find out more.
Where to go next
To help you get the most from your CBT, check out the Ridefree e-learning course. Ridefree covers the main rules for moped and motorcycle riders and includes plenty of practical advice on important topics such as developing your hazard perception skills.