About compulsory basic training (CBT)

Picture of Motorcyclist and trainer All learner moped and motorcycle riders must complete Compulsory Basic Training (CBT) before they can ride unaccompanied on public roads. Only registered Approved Motorcycle Instructors (AMI’s) / CBT trainers are allowed to conduct these training courses.

Does CBT apply to me?

You must complete a CBT course and hold a valid CBT Certificate before you can ride on the public road without being accompanied by an Approved Motorcycle Instructor / CBT Instructor.

You do not require a CBT certificate if:

you hold a full motorcycle licence in category A1 or A, or
you ride a moped* and you got your full car driving licence before 21 February 2011

* A moped is defined as having a maximum design speed not exceeding 50 kph (approx 31 mph) and an engine capacity no greater than 50cc.

Are you eligible to take a CBT course?

In order to be eligible to take a CBT course you need a provisional Category A (motorcycle) or P (moped) licence. This will allow you to sign up for a course and ride on the road whilst undergoing CBT training under the supervision of an Approved Motorcycle Instructor (AMI).

How long does the CBT course last?

There are five elements in the syllabus that covers CBT training. Elements A to D are not time-bound - the duration will depend on your ability. However, element E will be a minimum of four hours. The overall length of the course will vary depending on your ability, knowledge, understanding and skills.

CBT syllabus

The CBT Syllabus contains five elements, grouped into three modules and each module is based on your competency. The table below shows the content of each of the modules:

Module 1	Element A	Introduction - theoretical training
	Element B	Practical training (touch, balance etc)
Module 2	Element C	Practical riding skills
	Element D	Pre road-ride briefing
Module 3	Element E	Practical on-road riding (compulsory 4 hours duration)

During CBT, you will receive a log book in which your instructor will record the topics covered and details of your knowledge or skills. Once you have passed all three modules the instructor will issue you with your CBT certificate.

A sample of the log book can be downloaded here:

CBT certificates

Once you have passed CBT you will be issued with a certificate valid for two years. This will enable you to ride legally on the road unaccompanied. You must produce your CBT certificate within seven days if requested to do so by the PSNI or an enforcement officer.

If you don't pass your full moped or motorcycle test by the time the CBT certificate expires (two years) and you want to continue riding on the public road you will have to retake the CBT course and get a new certificate.

AMIs can issue a duplicate of the original CBT certificate if you lose it or if it is stolen. However, if the AMI who issued the original certificate is no longer operating, DVA may issue a duplicate certificate. The cost is currently set at a maximum of £20.

Who will conduct CBT?

Only registered AMIs from the mandatory register will be allowed to conduct CBT courses and it is up to them to identify a safe and appropriate area to deliver the training.

CBT in Northern Ireland is not the same as the current scheme in Great Britain. Therefore, only those AMIs on the statutory NI register will be ‘licensed’ to deliver CBT in Northern Ireland.

Quality assurance of CBT trainers

DVA has responsibility to monitor and regulate the standard of instruction delivered by CBT trainers. DVA will ensure that courses delivered comply with regulations and the safety of pupils is protected. To meet these responsibilities, DVA examiners will attend and monitor CBT courses and report their findings to the Registrar as appropriate.

For further information contact DVA by: