Requirements
To take the CBT training course, you'll need to:
- Hold the correct licence: a UK driving licence, UK provisional licence, or an EU licence with a UK counterpart number (photocopies or images aren't accepted).
- Be able to read a vehicle registration plate from 20.5 metres.
- Speak and understand English and have a good knowledge of the Highway Code.
- Be able to confidently ride an adult-sized bicycle.
- Wear suitable clothing, including thick trousers (such as jeans) and sturdy boots (preferably leather).
- Have your National Insurance number available for a licence check.
Course details
The CBT course is often confused as a test however it is not a test but a course typically completed in one day, usually taking around 6 - 8 hours. There are 5 elements which must all be completed consecutively in order to gain the paper CBT certificate at the end of the course.
- Ride up to 125cc (11Kw) scooter or motorcycle
- Ride on dual carriageways
- You cannot ride on motorways or take passengers
- You must display L plates
- Valid for 2 years
If the instructor feels you need more training to complete any elements of the course, they will ask you to come back for further training. The 5 elements of the CBT are:
Introduction and Eyesight Check
Welcome and brief to what to expect during the course, as well as an eyesight test to check you can read a registration plate at a distance of 20.5 metres. You may wear glasses if you use them.
On-Site Training
A basic demonstration of how a motorcycle works; the controls, maintenance and safety checks and how to move and park your bike. You will be shown how everything on a bike works then given the chance to try it yourself to make sure you're comfortable.
On-Site Riding
The instructor will teach you maneuvers, braking, observations, clutch control and gear changing (on a manual motorcycle). You'll spend a lot of time riding around cones, practicing different road riding scenarios and techniques.
On-Road Training
Road riding theory, covering the highway code and best practice for riding safely on the road. You'll be shown diagrams of how to ride safely on the road in different scenarios and asked questions about what to do.
On-Road Riding
This is a 2 hour minimum road ride which will take place on various roads around the training site. You will be in a group no larger than 2 students with your instructor, who will give directions through a radio earpiece.
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What you can ride after
A CBT licence allows you to ride up to a 125cc motorcycle or scooter on the road for 2 years. You must display L-Plates and cannot carry a pillion passenger or ride on motorways.
At 16 years old you are restricted to riding a motorcycle or scooter up 50cc, restricted to 28Mph. When you turn 17, you may then ride up to 125cc with a limit of 11Kw of power
At 17 years and above you can ride up to 125cc with a limit of 11Kw of power.
If you take the CBT on an automatic scooter, you are technically still entitled to ride a manual geared motorcycle on the road, however we would strongly recommend taking a Gear Conversion course before riding a manual bike if you have not had professional training.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Does the bike I train on affect my licence?
Currently no. You can legally train on an automatic and ride a manual 125cc after your CBT, although we'd highly recommend training to ride a manual motorcycle, either through an Introduction to Motorcycling course or Gear Conversion training.
What if I have an EU licence?
You'll need to complete and send a D1 form from a Post Office that offers DVLA services.
What if I don't have a driving licence?
You don't need a full driving licence to get a CBT, but if you don't have a UK provisional licence, you'll need to apply for one on the government site.
How far in advance should I book?
CBT classes have a restricted number of places in each course. Due to popular demand, you should aim to book at least 1 week in advance to get a convenient date.
Cancellation policy
You won't be charged anything until your booking is confirmed. Once the booking is confirmed, we can cancel your booking as long as you give us at least 5 working days notice before your training.
Popular CBT Training Locations
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Marcio, Bristol
Very professional and reliable, I booked my cbt on Friday and on Saturday afternoon I had my CBT certificate. Perfect! Good price! Knowledgeable instructors, excellent equipment! I recommend.
Rollo, Wandsworth
I found it easy to use and I got a great price. They clearly really care about their customers. Would definitely recommend RideTo to anyone who is thinking of getting their CBT.
Danny, Shepherds Bush
Booked my CBT through RideTo. The Customer Service was great and made the whole experience so simple. The team are great and helpful too!
Cagri, Lewisham
Incredibly easy process with great personable customer service. Have already recommended to my friends whom are looking to get road legal.
Stephanie, Essex
Fantastic customer service. I booked my CBT through their site with the help of their chat advisor. The process couldn't have been easier. Would 100% recommend.
Mike, Bristol
Had a great experience, phone assistance exactly when I needed it no fussing around, they found me a great price within a short deadline and are continuing to facilitate post test with getting me on the road. Very happy.
Tom, Manchester
RideTo helped to make my CBT experience incredibly easy. A pleasure to deal with, will definitely use them when I'm ready for the next step in my motorcycle training!
Marcio, Bristol
Rollo, Wandsworth
Danny, Shepherds Bush
Booked my CBT through RideTo. The Customer Service was great and made the whole experience so simple. The team are great and helpful too!
Cagri, Lewisham
Incredibly easy process with great personable customer service. Have already recommended to my friends whom are looking to get road legal.
Stephanie, Essex
Mike, Bristol
Tom, Manchester
Marcio, Bristol
Rollo, Wandsworth
Danny, Shepherds Bush
Booked my CBT through RideTo. The Customer Service was great and made the whole experience so simple. The team are great and helpful too!
Cagri, Lewisham
Incredibly easy process with great personable customer service. Have already recommended to my friends whom are looking to get road legal.