The cost of getting a motorbike licence varies depending on what licence you’ll need to ride your bike and how much training you require. To help you find out an average cost, we explore the cost of compulsory basic training (CBT), theory and practical test as well as motorbike licence categories and the different cost of each licence.
How much does a provisional licence cost?
Whether you wish to ride a moped or motorcycle, you will need to apply and pay for a provisional licence. To apply online, you must pay a one off cost of £34. If you’d prefer to apply via post, the price rises to £43.How to apply for a provisional licence
To apply for a provisional licence whether online or by post, you’ll need to be at least 15 years and nine months old and be able to read a number plate from around 20 metres away. When applying, you’ll need to provide the following documents and information:- ID (e.g. a valid UK passport)
- your address or addresses for the last three years
- your National Insurance number (if you know it)
How much does a CBT cost?
The compulsory basic training cost can vary depending on which training school you attend and whether you bring your own moped/motorcycle. On average though, it usually costs between £130-£170. When it comes to choosing a training school, it is worth shopping around to get the best deal. To find approved training centres in the UK, you can use this useful online tool.What does a CBT involve?
Compulsory basic training is required for all moped or motorcycle riders. It is a necessary step before you can legally ride on public roads with an L plate. The CBT covers many important on-road and off-road topics, including:- An eyesight check
- Essential equipment checks including suitable clothing
- Basic maintenance checks – understanding how your scooter/motorcycle works and how to keep it in roadworthy condition
- Practical on-site training – taking your scooter/motorcycle on and off its stand, turning the engine on and off, braking with control and coming to a stop
- Practical on-site riding – manoeuvres, emergency stops, changing gear
- Practical on-road riding
How much is a motorcycle theory test?
A motorcycle theory test costs £23. You’ll need to pass your theory test before you can take the practical motorcycle test.What does a motorcycle theory test involve?
The theory test comprises two parts:- Multiple-choice questions
- Hazard perception (a video test about spotting hazards on the road)
How much is a motorcycle practical test?
The practical test is split into two modules. Module one costs £15.50 and module two costs £75 (£88.50 on evenings, weekends and bank holidays). An extended test for disqualified riders (on-road) costs £150 or £177 outside of a weekday.What does a motorcycle practical test involve?
Module one involves off-road elements including moving your bike on its stand, parking and carrying out manoeuvres around cones, such as U-turns or figures of eight. Module two involves on-road elements such as independent riding and ‘show me, tell me’ questions. This is the section in which the examiner assesses your on-road riding skills. The first module takes around 20 minutes while the second module takes around 40 minutes. The modules are not usually taken at the same time, as you must pass module one (the off-road section) before you can take module two (the on-road section).Motorcycle lessons cost and licence categories
There are a number of motorbike licences available and as such, the prices for lessons and training can vary. While the cost for the practical test is the same for all licence categories, extra training and lessons are usually required for those looking to ride more powerful bikes. For example, an A1 licence course can cost between £400-£600, while an A2 licence course can cost anywhere between £500-£1,100. Learn more about the different motorbike licence categories and the requirements for each licence.How much does a direct access course cost?
If you have limited riding experience you have the option of paying for a direct access course, which can cost between £690-£1,150, depending on whether you choose the three, four or five-day course. The direct access scheme (DAS) allows those who have ridden 125cc machines to get a licence based on what their age group permits. You must be at least 24 years old or have had your A2 licence for a minimum of two years to take the direct access course. A direct access course allows you to have a full (category A) motorcycle licence. Find out which motorcycles you can ride with an A1 licence and which bikes you can ride with an A2 licence.The total cost of getting a motorbike licence
- Cost of provisional licence = £34 (or £43 via post)
- Cost of CBT = £130-£170
- Cost of motorcycle theory test = £23
- Cost of motorcycle practical test module one = £15.50
- Cost of motorcycle practical test module two = £75 (£88.50 on evenings, weekends and bank holidays)
- A1 licence course = £400-£600
- A2 licence course = £500-£1,100
- Direct access course = £690-£1,150