What you need to know
What do I need to wear
We do supply safety helmets , gloves and waterproofs But having your own is the best
The minimum atire would be a heavy duty jacket, strong jeans and boots of some description preferably
not trainers or shoes although we would not turn you away if that is all you do have to wear, the more
protection not only from injury but also the weather the better
Clothing Suitable to ride a motorcycle , obviously if posible motorcycling equipment supplied by
motorbike shops etc , ie jacket, trousers, gloves, safety helmet and boots
Useful Information and addresses
DSA website: www.
dsa.gov.uk Theory Test telephone information line: 0300 2001122
To book a motorcycle theory test on line click on this link
Booking a motorcycle THEORY TEST Official DSA video
Motorcycle Theory Test Are You Ready Official DSA video
Motorcycle Practical Test Are You Ready All 4 Bikers Free Practice Theory Test
Theory test centres near to us are:
Basildon Brighton
Southgate house Victoria House,4th Floor
Suite 1A- First Floor 125 Queens Rd
Town Square Brighton
Basildon BN1 3WB
Essex Tel 0800 7314359
SS14 1BN
Tel 0800 7314359
Canterbury Croydon
1st Floor Second Floor
77-78 Castle Street Central House
Canterbury 27 Park Street
Kent Croydon
CT1 2QD CR0 1YD
Tel 0800 7314359 Tel 0800 7314359
Eastbourne Chatham
Senlac House,Ground Floor 14-16 High Street
53-58 Seaside Chatham
Eastbourne ME4 4EP
BN22 7NE Tel 0800 7314359
Tel 0800 7314359
Hastings Ilford
Philips House 4th Valentines House
Drury Lane 51-69 Ilford Hill
Ponswood Industrial Estate Ilford
St Leonards on Sea london
Hastings IG1 2DG
TN38 9BA Tel 0800 7314359
Tel 0800 7314359
Sidcup
1st Floor, Kingswood House
47-51 Sidcup Hill
Sidcup
Kent
DA14 6HQ
Tel 0800 7314359
More Information about Driving Licences (from the DSA website)
Note: the DVLA now only issues photocard driving licences.
1. How To Apply For Your Provisional Driving Licence
First Applications / Provisional Licences
If you have never held a driving licence before you will need to apply for a provisional licence. You must complete
driving licence application form D1and photocard application form D750 (available from most post offices, and the
appropriate fee. You must also enclose original documentation confirming your identity
(for a complete list of acceptable identity documents please click here) and a passport sized colour photograph taken
against a plain light background (for photograph criteria click here). Send your completed application and fee to DVLA,
Swansea SA99 1AD.
2. Adding A Test Pass
Photocard Licence Holders
Once you have passed your driving test (theory and practical) you should exchange your test pass certificate for a
new licence as soon as possible.
If you hold a provisional driving licence you must complete the declaration on the reverse of your test pass certificate
and send it together with your photocard licence, paper counterpart and the appropriate fee to DVLA, Swansea, SA99 1BJ.
If you hold a full driving licence and have passed an additional test you must complete the declaration on the reverse of
your test pass certificate and send it together with your photocard licence, paper counterpart and the appropriate fee to
DVLA, Swansea, SA99 1BJ.
Note: Photocard Holders - If your name has changed since your last licence you must also complete photocard
application form D750 (available from most post offices, and enclose original documentation confirming your new name.
There is no requirement to supply a new photograph.
You have 2 years from the date of your test to apply for a full licence/add new entitlement.
If you leave it longer than this you will need to take another test (theory and practical).
Paper Licence Holders
Once you have passed your driving test (theory and practical) you should exchange your test pass certificate for a new
licence as soon as possible.
If you hold a provisional driving licence you must complete the declaration on the reverse of your test pass certificate
and complete photocard application form D750 (available from most post offices, or directly from DVLA by calling
0870 240 0009) and the appropriate fee.
You must also enclose original documentation confirming your identity and a passport sized colour photograph taken
against a plain light background . Send your completed application and fee to DVLA, Swansea, SA99 1BJ.
If you hold a full driving licence you must complete the declaration on the reverse of your test pass certificate and
complete photocard application form D750 (available from most post offices,and the appropriate fee.
You must also enclose original documentation confirming your identity
(for a full list of acceptable identity documents click here) and a passport sized colour photograph taken against a
plain light background
(click here for photograph criteria). Send your completed application and fee to DVLA, Swansea, SA99 1BJ.
You have 2 years from the date of your test to apply for a full licence/add new entitlement.
If you leave it longer than this you will need to take another test (theory and practical).
SOURCES OF INFORMATION
What material can I revise from?
To prepare properly for the theory test, DSA strongly recommend that you study the books from which the
questions are taken.These books, known as the source material, consist of The Highway Code, Know Your Traffic Signs
and the appropriate Official Driving Manual for the vehicle category in which you are taking your test.
Click here for more information about buying these books.
To help you practise for your theory test DSA also publish CD-ROMs. The CD-ROMs contains the official
question bank and uses screen layouts which look similar to those used in the actual test.
The books and CD-ROMs are titled as 'The Official Theory Test' for the appropriate vehicle category. These will help
you to familiarise yourself with the format and content of the test and the CD-ROM enables you to practise mock tests.
The CD-ROM is available by mail order -
you can telephone: 0870 243 0123 or email dsamerchandising@tso.co.uk for orders or enquiries
Where can I get more information?
An enquiry facility is available on DSA's national number of 0300 2001122 to answer any specific questions .
B3, C.White Bike Training's instructors answer your questions about motorcycle training:
The Theory Test
Compulsory Basic Training
Information about Licences and what you can ride
How do I know if I have a provisional licence?
What should I bring for a course?
When do I have to take the theory test?
You do not need to take the theory test to ride a moped or motorcycle on L plates, but you must take it and pass it
before the practical test. If you wish to train with B3 Rider Training, you must pass before the start of training,
even if you hold a full licence in another group.
The theory test pass certificate has a life of 2 years, after which it will be necessary to take the test again before
taking a practical driving test.
How can I find out about the theory test?
The theory test can be taken at over 145 centres throughout Great Britain and Northern Ireland. Sessions are available
on weekdays, evenings and on Saturdays. You can find out where your local centre is from:
Your Approved Driving Instructor
A DSA or DVTA driving test centre
The telephone information line 0300 2001122
The test paper is available in 20 languages including the following:
English , Welsh (in Wales) , Hindi , Urdu , Gujerati , Punjabi , Bengali , Chinese
How can I book and pay for the theory test?
The easiest way is to book it through us as part of your motorcycle course.
The quickest way to make a test appointment is to ring DSA's national telephone number on 0870 010 1372 and pay by
credit or debit card. Application forms are also accepted by post with cheque or postal order payment.
Application forms are available from theory test and practical test centres, Approved Driving Instructors or on request
from DSA's national number 0870 010 1372.
The cost of the theory test is £31.
Application forms for the theory test should be sent to the address shown on the form i.e.
DSA
PO Box 148
Salford
M5 3SY
How can I revise for the theory test?
The DSA recommend that you study the books from which the questions are taken:
Link to purchase any of the publications show below
The Highway Code
Know Your Traffic Signs
Official Motorcycle Manual
The DSA also publish CD-ROMs containing the official question bank and using screen layouts which
look similar to those used in the actual test.
The books and CD-ROMs are titled as 'The Official Theory Test' for the appropriate vehicle category.
The CD-ROM is available by mail order - telephone 0300 2001122
What is CBT all about?
As a new rider, you are required by law to complete Compulsory Basic Training (CBT) before you can ride on L plates.
The Driving Standards Agency syllabus will introduce you to safety equipment and ridering gear, basic machine control,
the concepts behind road safety. A qualified instructor will accompany you on a minimum of a two hour road ride.
Having reached a safe and proficient level of riding, you will receive a CBT certificate (DL196).
This certificate is valid for two years, and allows you to ride displaying L plates unaccompanied on the road
From 1st January 1997, all learner motorcyclists must complete CBT before riding on the road. This includes riders who
hold a full car licence dated before 1 December 1990, who were previously exempt under transitional rules
From 1st February 2001, car drivers who qualify after 1 February 2001 will be required to complete CBT before riding
a moped .If you are still riding on a provisional licence without a CBT certificate, you MUST stop riding and take CBT
to validate your licence
Note: you do not need to take CBT if you have passed a full moped test,
or if you live and ride on specified offshore islands.
I already have a CBT certificate from my year on a moped. Is it valid for my new 125?
Yes, so long as it has not expired
I thought my CBT certificate was valid for three years?
They used to be, but the rules have changed. CBT certificates issued after February 1 2001 have a two year life
from the date of issue Old and some current stocks of CBT certificates are not marked with an expiry date -
it will be up to you to remember when they expire
What can I ride as a learner rider?
If you are 16 years old, you can ride a moped.
If you are 17 or older, you can ride a motorcycle or scooter not exceeding 125cc and 11kW (14.6hp)
Can I ride a 50cc scooter on a car licence?
Yes, so long as you hold a full car or motorcycle licence - these provide full moped entitlement.
Note: CBT is required before riding on the road if you passed your car test after 1 February 2001.
Yes, so long as you hold a provisional driving licence and this has been validated by passing a cbt course
(this provides automatic provisional moped entitlement)
What is a moped?
A moped is a machine which:
has an engine under 50cc
has a maximum design speed not exceeding 28 mph
doesn't weigh more than 250 kg
can be moved by pedals if registered BEFORE 1 August 1977
Any scooter which meets the above criteria is a moped
How do I know if I have a provisional motorcycle licence?
A provisional motorcycle licence can be any of the following:
a provisional driving licence with motorcycle entitlement
a full car licence - this automatically provides provisional motorcycle entitlement
a full moped licence - this automatically provides provisional motorcycle entitlement if you're aged 17 or over
Note: if you have applied for a provisional CAR licence, don't forget that the motorcycle
entitlement needs to be applied for separately.
What can I ride on a provisional motorcycle licence?
A provisional motorcycle licence entitles you to ride a solo motorcycle up to 125cc with a maximum power output
of 11kW learners who wish to ride a side-car can do so with a power to weight ratio not exceeding 0.16kW/kg
You must not
ride on motorways
carry a pillion passenger
ride without L plates (or D plates in Wales - however note that if you cross into England you must display L plates!)
Note: the two year limit on motorcycle entitlement on a provisional licence has been scrapped as of 1 February 2001
What is the Light Motorcycle licence?
If you pass your test on a motorcycle of between 75 and 125cc, with a top speed of less than 100kph, you'll obtain
a full light motorcycle licence of category A1, allowing you to ride a motorcycle of up to 125cc with a power output
upto 11kW (14.6hp). Note: all our 125 motorcycles are capable of more than 100kph, and thus eligible for the
standard category A motorcycle licence.
What can I take my test on - I'm under 21?
If you are 17 but under 21, you must take your test on a motorcycle not exceeding 125cc and 11kW (14.6hp),
sometimes known as Restricted Access. On passing you'll obtain a full standard category A motorcycle licence,
subject to a two year qualifying period where you may only ride motorcycles with a power output not exceeding
25kW (33hp) with a power to weight ratio not exceeding 0.15kW/kg. After two years, you may ride any
motorcycle without taking any further test
What can I take my test on - I'm 21 or over?
If you are 21 or over, you have the option of taking your test on a motorcycle with a power output of at least
35kW (46.6hp), known as Direct Access. On passing you'll obtain a full standard category A motorcycle licence,
and may ride any motorcycle without needing to serve the two year qualifying period
Note: Groups A and A1 are the new "Euro" groups -
if you hold an older style licence, the groups indicated will be different.
I want to learn to ride with a sidecar attached
If you wish to learn to ride with a sidecar, you can practice on a combination with a power to weight ratio not
exceeding 0.16kW/kg.At age 21 learners may, only within Direct Access or Accelerated Access, practice on a
larger combination.The test MUST be taken on a SOLO bike. Only physically disabled riders will be exempt
from this requirement.On obtaining a standard group A licence, you will restricted to a combination with the
above power to weight ratio for 2 years, unless your test was conducted on a Direct Access machine,
in which case there are no restrictions.
How can I get more information about licences?
Contact The Driver Enquiry Unit:
The Driver and Vehicle Licencing Agency (DVLA)
Swansea SA6 7JL
Telephone 01792 772151
What do I need to bring on a course?
You must bring your driving licence, and if you are starting a 125 or DAS course your theory test pass certificate
and CBT certificate if you need to wear glasses to pass the DSA eyesight test, bring them -
you must wear them whilst riding
What should I wear?
We provide safety helmets, gloves and waterproofs, but you must wear a stout warm jacket, stout trousers
(ie jeans) and sturdy footwear we recommend that you bring your own gloves for comfort -
we do supply gloves if needed
What do I have to have to ride my own bike on the road?
Safety Helmet - the helmet must be approved (kitemarked or to European standard ECE2205), worn on the head
and securely fastened under the chin , CBT and L Plates if riding on a provisional licence - L Plates must be
displayed vertically, on the centre line or offset to the offside front and rear
Insurance
MOT - vehicles over 3 years old need a valid MOT certificate, which lasts for one year. Don't forget that the MOT
is just a check that the vehicle is roadworthy on the day it was tested. A current MOT on a second hand vehicle is
no guarantee that it is roadworthy.
Roadworthy machine - it is a legal requirement that your vehicle be roadworthy, which basically means everything fitted
should work, including items like the lights and the horn. Tyres in particular wear out, the legal minimum for
a motorcycle tyre is 1mm depth in a continuous and unbroken band over 75 % of tread and all the way around the tyre.
Mopeds must have visible tread over the entire tread area.
Road fund licence - all vehicles used (or KEPT) on a public road must be taxed. The tax disc must be current and
displayed clearly on the front nearside. If they are to be kept off-road, don't forget to complete and return the new,
compulsory SORN notification.
What can I do when I have passed my test?
Apart from the restrictions mentioned above, on passing your test in any category you may:
ride on motorways (except when riding a motorcycle under 50cc)
carry a pillion passenger
ride without L plates
ride abroad
The DSA recommends that you take further training - B3 Rider Training can offer you a full range of post test training
including a course leading to a nationally recognised advanced riding qualification from The Edge
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
More Information about the theory test (from the DSA website)
The Theory Test for Car Drivers and Motorcyclists was introduced in July 1996. It is designed to improve the safety of
newly qualified riders by making them think carefully about the right attitudes needed to ride safely on today's
busy roads.
Areas of assessment include
driver attitude
traffic signs and regulations
effects of alcohol, drugs and fatigue on driver behaviour
safety and environmental aspects of vehicles.
To pass the exam you must answer at least 30 out of 35 multiple -choice questions correctly. To help you study
and prepare for your theory test the Driving Standards Agency produce the Official Theory Test for Motorcyclists
containing the questions and answers. This is updated annually.
The theory test also includes a Hazard Perception test. You will be shown a video clip with various hazards appearing.
The sooner you spot the hazard and respond by touching the screen to identify it, the more points you will score.
Clicking the screen at random will penalise your score.
A CD-Rom containing all the questions in the question bank is also available.
The core material for the theory test questions are taken from the following DSA publications
The Highway Code
The Motorcycle Manual
Know Your Traffic Signs
It is important that you study - not only to pass the test - but also to become a safe rider. More information is available
on the DSA site by visiting our Publications section.
When you take the theory test, you'll be asked some specific questions regarding the category of vehicle being tested,
as well as questions that apply to all road users.
Weekday, evening and Saturday test sessions are available. Arrangements can be made for candidates with special needs.
You must tell Booking Section Staff about your special needs when you book your test.
The touch screen theory test has been specially designed to make the test more accessible to the general public. It is
particularly helpful to people with special needs. All that you need to do is touch the screen to indicate which
answer(s) you think are correct.
DSA THEORY TEST - Frequently Asked Questions
What happens when I sit my theory test?
Since January 2000, theory tests have been delivered using a touch screen computer. Candidates sit at individual booths.
Questions appear on a computer screen and candidates select their answers simply by touching the screen.
Hazard perception videos will also be shown and the candidate should identify the hazard by touching the screen.
How much does the test cost?
The cost is £31.
How long does it take to get my result?
Candidates receive their test results, and feedback information, within 30 minutes of finishing the test.
Do I get feedback on what I got wrong?
Yes. Candidates are given feedback about any topic areas in which they answered questions incorrectly,
and the number of questions they got wrong.
Can I take a paper-based test?
No, however, if you have special needs that mean that you have particular difficulties in using a touch screen,
tell the booking office when you book your test as special arrangements may be made in some cases.
Do I need to be able to use computers?
No. The touch screen system has been carefully designed to make sure it is easy to use. Candidates can also
work through a practice session for up to 15 minutes to get used to the system before actually starting their test.
If anybody has any difficulties in using the new system, staff at the test centre will be on hand to help.
How long do I get to take the test?
Candidates have 57 minutes to answer 50 test questions. However, people with special needs can apply for
additional time, (up to 80 minutes)when they are booking their test. An extra 20 mins will be allowed for
completion of the Hazard Perception Test.
How many questions are there?
There are 50 questions
What is the pass mark?
Candidates have to answer 43 questions correctly out of 50 to pass. The Hazard Perception Test minimum pass
mark based on a timed reaction to spot the hazard is 44.
The Hazard Perception Part of the Theory test
The hazard perception part is also delivered on a computer but you respond by clicking a button on the mouse.
You'll be presented with a series of 14 video clips which feature every day road scenes. In each clip there'll be at
least one developing hazard, but one of the clips will feature two developing hazards.
To achieve a high score you'll need to respond to the developing hazard during the early part of its development.
The maximum you can score on each hazard is five.
You won't be able to review your answers to the hazard perception test; as on the road, you'll only have one
chance to respond to the developing hazard.
What is the pass mark for the Hazard Perception Part?
The pass mark for the car and motorcycle hazard perception part of the theory test is 44 out of 75.
How long is my theory test Pass certificate valid for?
The Theory Test Pass certificate is only valid for two years, if you haven't passed your practical test within two
years you'll have to retake your theory test.
How do I answer questions?
One question at a time is shown on screen. Underneath the question the answer options are set out.
To select an answer you touch the button on the screen beside the answer you want.
Can I change an answer after I have selected one?
Yes. This is simple to do by touching the screen again. You are given the chance to practise this before starting the test
Can I skip questions I am not sure about, and go back to them later?
Yes. You can mark questions with a flag to help you go back to them quickly.
The system also prompts you to go back to questions that you have not answered fully.
Can other candidates see my results on the screen?
No. Candidates sit in a private booth. In any case, there are so many different forms of the test that
candidates in adjacent booths are probably sitting different tests.
What happens if the computer system breaks down?
If there is a short interruption to the test, candidates are usually able to continue with the test.
The answers that have been given up to that point will not normally be lost.
If there is a longer interruption, candidates are offered a new test free of charge.
Does everyone have to take the theory test?
UK licence holders
Most candidates in the UK who are learning to drive or ride will have to sit a theory test for that category.
However, there are some exceptions:
- upgrading within the same category i.e. B to B+E
- if you hold a full B1 entitlement because you have a full motorcycle licence issued before 1 February 2001
you are exempt from the car (B) theory test
- if you passed a theory test and then a practical moped test, then you won't have to take the theory test
again to upgrade to a motorcycle licence.
Foreign Licence Holders
If you hold a full driving licence issued outside the European Economic Area it may be possible to exchange
it for an equivalent GB licence. There is a booklet (the D100) which you can get from most post offices,
this booklet explains the exchange licence regulations. You can also contact the Driver and Vehicle Licensing
Agency (Tel: 0870 240 0009) who will tell you if you can or cannot exchange your driving licence.If you cannot
exchange your licence you will need to take and pass a theory test before you can book a practical driving test.
Any particular enquiries about whether a theory test is required should be addressed to:
Driving Standards Agency (DSA) - Customer Services
Address
Customer Services, The Axis Building,112 Upper Parliament Street,Nottingham. NG1 6LP
Enquiry line
0300 200 1122
Email Customer Services Link
Costs of Driving Tests
|
Standard fee for car and motorcycle |
£31.00 |
|
Multiple choice questions for bus and lorry drivers |
£35.00 |
|
Hazard perception test for bus and lorry drivers |
£15.00 |
|
Driver CPC theory test case studies |
£30.00 |
|
Potential/Approved Driving Instructor (ADI) |
£90.50 |
|
Car |
£62.00 |
£75.00 |
|
Tractor and other specialist vehicles |
£62.00 |
£75.00 |
|
Motorcycle Part One
Part Two |
£15.50
£75.00 |
|
|
Lorry and bus |
£115.00 |
£141.00 |
|
Driver CPC Practical test (includes automated issue of Driver Qualification Card (DQC) |
£55.00 |
£63.00 |
|
Car and trailer |
£115.00 |
£141.00 |
Can I take my practical test first? No. You have to take and pass your theory test before a booking for the practical test is accepted.
SPECIAL NEEDS
Can I take the test in a language other than English?
Yes. At no extra cost, car and motorcycle candidates can listen through a headset to the test being read out in
one of 20 languages other than English. These are: Welsh, Albanian, Arabic, Bengali, Cantonese, Dari, Farsi,
Gujerati, Hindi, Kashmiri, Kurdish, Mirpuri, Polish, Portuguese, Punjabi, Pushto, Spanish, Tamil, Turkish and Urdu.
The test is not available in my language. Can I bring a translator with me to translate the test?
Yes. Translators are permitted if the voiceover service is not offered in the language in which you want to take the test.
The translator must be approved by DSA and arrangements for using translators must be made at the time of booking
your test. You must arrange for their services yourself, and are responsible for paying the fee.
Tests with translators can only be accommodated at the following theory test centres:
Aldershot, Birkenhead, Birmingham, Cardiff, Derby, Edinburgh, Glasgow, Ipswich, Leeds, Milton Keynes,
Palmers Green and Preston.
Can people with special needs use the system?
The system provides facilities for candidates with special needs. These include being able to listen to the test read
in English or 20 other languages through a headset or, for deaf candidates, being able to watch the test being
signed in British Sign language.
I am colour blind. Can I still use the system?
Yes. The system has been carefully designed so that candidates who are colour blind can use it.
I am dyslexic. Can I use the system?
The system has the option for dyslexic candidates to listen to the test being read in English through a headset.
People with dyslexia can also apply to have up to double the standard time of 40 minutes.
I have hearing difficulties. Can I use the system?
A video of the test in British Sign Language is available on screen for candidates who are deaf or have
other hearing difficulties.
I have light-sensitive epilepsy. How can I take a theory test?
Special arrangements can be made through the booking office to enable you to take your theory test. The actual
arrangements will depend on your exact needs, but may involve using a flicker-free screen like those used in a laptop.
Some tips on passing the Hazard Perception test from Kevin, our BTEC qualified instructor
"This has got to be the biggest insult to common sense I have seen in many, many years."
Unfortunately, that's a typical response from someone who didn't prepare for the Hazard Perception test properly.
In case you didn't already know, the Hazard Perception test is the second part of the Theory test that all drivers
and riders have to take when adding a new category onto their licence. Like it or lump it, it's here to stay, so what
is it and how do you pass it? The Hazard Perception test takes the form of a series of video clips of footage shot on
real roads in which you will have to look for and identify the hazard. You click your mouse button every time you see
a new hazard developing that may cause you to take some form of action. The earlier you spot the hazard, the higher
your score. Remember that word "developing".
You also need to understand the DSA definition of a hazard - it's something that requires a change of course or speed
from you. Remember that too. The problem with the Hazard Perception test is that it's not always as simple as it looks,
particularly if you are an experienced driver. The "window" in which you have to click the mouse to show you have
spotted the hazard is quite small. And if you don't click at the right time, you don't score, even though you correctly
spotted the hazard. So why the problem? It seems the test is aimed at brand new road users and so experienced
drivers doing the bike test are reacting to potential hazards, not developing hazards, and so clicking too early.
So, our advice.
Pay close attention to the introduction and the example at the start of the test.
Remember each clip will have one, or possibly two, 'real', tested, hazards.
Just remember... what you are looking for is the moment a POTENTIAL (ie possible) hazard turns into a
DEVELOPING (ie a real) one.
For instance... a child on a bicycle cycling along the pavement... that's a potential hazard... what they want you to spot
is the moment he looks over his right shoulder and starts to turn to ride into or cross the road. That's the moment the
situtation starts to develop and you may have to swerve or brake to avoid the child.
But when that possible hazard starts to develop is the moment you have to do something about it. The earlier you
click when there's a developing hazard, the better you score.
Good luck!
IMPORTANT:
Whilst all information on this page has been checked, B3 Motorcycle Training cannot accept any
responsibility of errors and omissions.
