Can you ride a motorbike with a car licence?
While it may seem strange, there are in fact motorbikes you can ride using just your car licence if you’re eligible. But how can you ditch your four wheels in favour of a two-wheeled machine? This blog explains how you can use your driving licence to ride a motorbike.
Is everyone with a driving licence eligible to ride a motorbike?
Unfortunately this doesn’t apply to everyone; it’ll depend on when you passed your driving test. In some cases, you might still have to complete a compulsory basic training (CBT) course before you can ride.
If you passed your driving test before 1st February 2001 you are legally entitled to ride a moped up to 50cc without needing L plates or taking a CBT test. You should have a Category P on your licence. However, if you wish to ride a moped or bike with a larger engine, you will need to take the CBT test.
Anyone who passed on or after 1st February 2001, will need to complete their CBT before being able to legally ride a motorbike or moped of any description.
What bikes can I ride with a driving licence?
The most important factor when choosing a bike to ride with a car driving licence is its engine capacity. The government website states that you can ride a moped up to 50cc without L plates and without taking a moped test if you passed your driving test before the 1st February 2001. The bike you choose will have to also have a top speed of 50km/h.
One of the main advantages and benefits of riding this kind of motorcycle is that they are cheaper than more powerful bikes.
Read more in our blog covering which motorbikes you can ride on which licences.
What is a CBT test?
CBT stands for Compulsory Basic Training. It is often referred to as a test, but this is false, because you cannot fail the CBT course.
The CBT teaches beginners the basic skills they require to ride safely and competently on UK roads. It can often be completed within one day, but if your instructor believes you need more time to meet the minimum standard, you may be asked to complete extra training.
What does CBT involve and how much is it?
It will comprise of five key elements. Your instructor must categorically believe you have understood each element and demonstrated the skills before you can move onto the next stage. You can learn more about the CBT test elements in our handy guide.
The course will cost between £110-130, depending on which training provider you choose and where you live in the country. Find out more about the costs involved with getting a motorcycle licence in our blog.
The CBT test is a five-part course consisting of:
Introduction and sight checks
Training onsite
Riding on site
On-road training
On-road riding
Upon completion of your CBT, you will be able to begin the process of attaining a bike licence.
Read more about the process to getting a full motorcycle licence in our blog.
Does your CBT expire?
Your CBT will expire after two years. This means if you do not graduate to a motorbike licence within two years of taking your CBT, you will have to take it again to legally ride on the roads.
Motorcycle insurance you can trust
At Bikesure, we have access to a wide variety of specialist motorbike insurance schemes to help you find the right motorcycle insurance policy to suit you.
For a swift no obligation quote call 0330 123 1028 or arrange a callback at a time that’s more convenient for you.
