Restricted Licence FAQs
What is a restricted licence?
A restricted licence is a full motorcycle licence where you are restricted to what you can ride. It comes in two styles
- 'A1' – take your test on a bike of between 75cc and 125cc with a top speed of less than 62.5 m.p.h. and you will be limited to 125cc after your test with a maximum power output of 14.6 b.h.p. In other words, a standard learner-legal 125cc unless you take another test. For a list of bikes which achieve the A1 licence please click here (opens in new window).
- 'A2' – If you take your test on a 125cc bike which is capable of 62.5 m.p.h. or more, you can ride any size bike, as long as its power output does not exceed 33 b.h.p. for two years and then you can ride any size bike without restriction. For a list of bikes which achieve the A2 licence please click here (opens in new window).
Who takes a restricted licence?
The restricted licence is the only licence option available to those aged 17-20. It is also suitable for those people not intending to ride anything too powerful in the immediate future.
What is 33 b.h.p.?
Unfortunately, there is no direct correlation between b.h.p. and CCs. It is all about the power output of the engine. Some examples of bikes which will not exceed 33 b.h.p. are:
- Honda Rebel 250
- Honda Bros 400
- Kawasaki KLX250-G
- Suzuki Intruder 400
- Yamaha TT250
- Yamaha Drag Star 400
However, if the bike you intend to get does exceed 33 b.h.p., you can get restrictor kits for many popular bikes to restrict the power of the engine for two years (a typical cost is £150.00).
What do I need to take the course?
You need to be in possession of one of the following licences to take part in a full licence course.
- a full UK car licence
- a provisional UK car licence with valid provisional motorcycle entitlement (Category A)
- an EU licence with valid UK counterpart (D58/2) showing provisional motorcycle entitlement (under additional UK provisional entitlement)
If you hold the UK photocard licence, you will need to have both parts of it, both the photocard and the paper counterpart licence (D740)
If you have the old style UK paper driving licence, you will need to bring with you a valid passport as well.
If you do not hold any licence, licence applications forms can be collected from larger Post Offices (form D1) or you can apply online here.
If you hold an EU licence but do not have a UK counterpart (D58/2) showing provisional motorcycle entitlement (under additional UK provisional entitlement), then you will need to telephone DVLA on 0300 790 6801 and ask them for a D9 form, or alternatively you can download an application form here (350kb) (PDF opens in new window). If your licence is from outside the EU and you are able to swap it to a UK licence then you will need form D1. For a list of countries which are able to convert their licences to a UK one, please visit the following page.
For all fee information and a wealth of other licensing information please visit the Directgov site here or call the DVLA on 0300 790 6801.
To take your practical test, you must have a valid motorcycle theory test pass certificate and a valid CBT certificate. If you have not completed CBT, you can do it as part of your course. If you have not passed a motorcycle theory test, further information is available on the theory test page. All documents must be original. We cannot accept photocopies
What do I need to bring?
Whatever the weather, you must wear the correct clothing as failure to bring the right gear will result in no training. You need to wear a strong jacket, long trousers (jeans are fine), sturdy footwear (strong shoes or boots) and gloves. Waterproof clothing is strongly recommended as well if it looks like it might rain, as your course will continue whether it rains or not.
If you normally wear glasses or contact lenses, you will need to bring them, as you will need to be able to read a registration plate at a minimum distance of 66 feet (20.5 metres).
If you have booked to use one of our motorcycles then we will supply you with a motorcycle safety helmet.
You will need to bring with you everyday your UK licence and CBT certificate (once gained). If you have a photocard licence, you will also need to bring with you the counterpart licence (D740). For the practical test days of your course you will need to bring with you your valid motorcycle theory test pass certificate and Module 1 pass certificate once gained as well. If you have the old style paper licence, you will need to bring with you a valid passport. The documents must be original. Photocopies cannot be accepted.
If you are supplying your own motorcycle, you will need to bring your own helmet, valid motorcycle insurance, valid road tax, valid MOT certificate (if your bike is more than three years old). You will need to have full sized L–plates clearly displayed on your bike both front and rear. Your motorcycle must be in a good roadworthy condition.
Do I need to take time off work?
You will need have one of your days on a weekday for the practical test. The rest of your course can be conducted on weekends. We run training courses seven days a week.
How to book?
To book a course, contact us on 0871 52 000 52. Our office hours are Monday to Saturday from 09:00 - 17:30. We accept all major credit and debit cards and cash.
Please have your licence to hand, CBT certificate and motorcycle theory test pass certificate if applicable.
How many people pass first time?
Our pass rate is second to none. Most trainees pass their test first time with us.
How long does it take?
This all depends on what length of course you need and whether you can do your training on weekdays, or only at weekends. It also depends on whether you have passed a motorcycle theory test or not.
For example, if you are a novice rider and have not passed a theory test and can only train at weekends (your last day would need to be a weekday), your course can take up to five weeks to complete.
If you are a very experienced rider who holds a valid CBT certificate and has passed a motorcycle theory test already, we may well be able to get you through your test within two weeks. All of our training days are whole days.
Your Instructors?
Our courses are run by some of the most experienced instructors in the industry. They are all approved by the Driving Standards Agency and they are used to teaching people of all abilities, from novice riders to very experienced riders.
Do I need to pass a theory test?
Everybody since February 2001 has to pass a motorcycle theory test. Even if you have held a full car licence for many years, you will still need to take and pass a motorcycle theory test.
The only exceptions to this rule are holders of bike licences who want to upgrade within the same category. To arrange a theory test, please visit the theory test page. You will need to have your driving licence number from your licence and a method of payment.
What does the practical test involve?
The practical test is split into two modules.
- Module 1 – Specified Manoeuvres (approx. 22 minutes)
- At least two manoeuvres carried out at slow speed, including a slalom
- At least two manoeuvres carried out at higher speed, of which one exercise should be in second or third gear, at a speed of at least 30 km/h (approx. 19 m.p.h) and one exercise avoiding an obstacle at a minimum speed of 50 km/h (approx. 32 m.p.h)
- At least two braking manoeuvres, including an emergency brake at a minimum speed of 50 km/h (approx. 32 m.p.h).
- Link to manoeuvre diagram (PDF - 688kb - Adobe Acrobat Reader Required)
- Module 1 motorcycle test video (opens in new window)
- Module 2 – Road Riding Test (approx. 57 minutes)
- The accompanied riding element of the test, which is quite similar to the existing test. Module 2 of the test will consist of the eyesight test, road safety questions and at least 30 minutes of road riding. The road ride will cover a variety of road and traffic conditions and will also include normal stops, hill and angle starts.
- Module 2 motorcycle test video (opens in new window)
Do I need to book my own test?
No. Your practical test fee is included in your course price and is arranged for either late morning, or sometime during the afternoon on the last day of your course.
What is your cancellation policy?
For all courses where a practical test is involved, we require three weeks notice to change dates or cancel. Failure to attend, lateness, or failure to give sufficient notice will result in the monies being forfeit.