Motorcycle Training FAQs: CBT, DAS & Licence Questions Answered
Here are the questions we get asked most often by learners considering CBT, DAS or Full-Licence training across Warrington and Cheshire…
What is a CBT and do I need one to ride a motorbike in the UK?
A CBT (Compulsory Basic Training) is a one-day course every learner rider has to complete before riding on UK roads. It covers bike controls, on-site manoeuvres, theory basics and a road ride with your instructor following. Once passed, you can ride up to a 125cc on L-plates for two years. We deliver CBT training at our Warrington base, covering learners from Runcorn, Widnes, St Helens, Wigan and surrounding Cheshire areas.
How long does a CBT take to complete?
A standard CBT takes one full day — usually 8am to 4pm, with breaks. Some learners need a follow-up half-day if they need more time on the road ride, which is normal and not a “fail.” We aim to complete most CBTs in a single session.
Do you provide the motorbike and gear for training?
Yes — every CBT, DAS or licence course includes use of a maintained training bike or scooter, plus helmet, Jacket and HiViz. Just turn up in jeans, sturdy boots with ankle protection and approved gloves and you are good to go. If you don’t have boots and gloves you can hire them from us.
How long is my CBT certificate valid for?
Two years from the date you pass. If you don’t get your full licence within that window, you’ll need to take a refresher CBT to keep riding on L-plates.
How much does CBT training cost?
Our CBT courses start from £225, including bike hire, Helmet and Jacket are included with all CBT Courses, fuel, Third party insurance and your DVSA-recognised CL196 certificate, but only if you complete the course to the required standards.
What’s the minimum age to take a CBT?
16+ if you’re training for a 50cc moped. 17+ for anything up to 125cc. There’s no upper age limit — we regularly train riders in their 50’s and 60’s
Can you fail a CBT?
The CBT is not a pass or fail course. However you must show the instructor that you meet the required standards set by the DVSA [Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency]. If you cannot do this then you will not be issued a DL196 certificate and would need to retake the CBT course again.
What’s the difference between A1, A2 and full A motorcycle licences?
A1 is for 17-year-olds on bikes up to 125cc (no L-plates). A2 is for 19+ on bikes up to 35kW. Full A (via DAS) is for 24+ on any bike, unrestricted. We offer training routes for all three.
What is DAS training and who is it for?
Direct Access Scheme (DAS) is the fast route to a full unrestricted motorcycle licence for anyone aged 24 or over. You’ll train and test on a 600cc+ bike, and once passed you can ride any motorcycle on the market.
Do I need to pass a theory test before my CBT?
No — theory is only required if you’re going for a full licence (A1, A2 or full A). For CBT alone, no theory needed, but a good knowledge of the highway code is necessary to complete the CBT course.
What happens if I fail my Mod 1 test?
You can rebook the test once you’re ready — there’s a minimum 3-working-day wait between attempts. We run Mod 1 retake sessions targeted at whatever you lost the test on, whether it’s the swerve, slow ride or figure of eight.
Do you offer training for Uber Eats and Deliveroo delivery riders?
Yes — we run a specific delivery rider package covering CBT, automatic scooter familiarisation and theory support, designed around Uber Eats, Deliveroo and Just Eat onboarding requirements. Many of our delivery rider learners are road-ready within a week of first contact.
Can I request a female motorcycle instructor?
Yes. We have female instructors available. Same DVSA qualifications and syllabus, often a different teaching presence that some learners find more comfortable, especially when starting out.
I haven’t ridden in 20+ years. Can I just jump on a bike again?
Strongly recommend a refresher session first. Bikes, roads and rules have all changed — and your reflexes will need a re-introduction even if you held a licence before. Our Back to Riding course is built specifically for returning riders.
Do you offer automatic-only training for people who don’t want to use gears?
Yes — we have automatic scooters in our fleet and can train your entire CBT, A1, A2 or full A licence on automatic-only machines. You’ll get a licence with an “auto only” restriction (code 78) but for most riders this isn’t a limitation.
How long does it take to get a full motorbike licence from scratch?
From total beginner to full DAS licence typically takes 1–4 weeks depending on your availability and progression speed.
Where will I take my Mod 1 and Mod 2 tests?
DVSA motorcycle tests are taken at official test centres — your nearest are Atherton and St Helens. We help you book the soonest available slots and prep you specifically for the routes those centres use.
Do you train nervous riders or people with confidence issues?
Yes — confidence-building is one of our most-requested specialisms. We run patient one-to-one sessions for nervous riders, returning riders and learners who’ve had a knock-back elsewhere. Pace is set by you, not us.
Do you offer weekend training?
Yes — Saturday courses run regularly and occasionally Sundays and Bank Holidays. Most weekend learners do their CBT without taking annual leave.
Where exactly are you based and what areas do you serve?
Our training site is in Warrington, with regular learners travelling from Runcorn, Chester, Widnes, St Helens, Wigan, Northwich, Frodsham, Ellesmere Port, Newton Le Willows, Leigh, Knutsford, Sale, Altrincham and across Cheshire. Good road and motorway links from most of the North West.
Can I bring my own bike to training?
Yes for full-licence and refresher learners and CBT renewals with a road-legal bike and valid CBT Certificate. For CBT itself, we strongly recommend using one of our training bikes — they’re set up for learners and you’re insured third party on them through us.