UK Motorcycle Licence Shake-Up — Riders Speak Up

The DVSA is talking about shaking things up. The aim is to improve road safety while making access to motorcycling simpler — and, for once, they’re actually asking riders what they think.

If you’re in the UK and trying to get a motorcycle licence, you already know the score. Theory test, Mod 1, Mod 2, age brackets, power limits — a system so segmented you need a flowchart and a healthy bank balance just to get on the road. It’s a long way from the old days, when turning 21 and booking an intensive course could see you walk away with a full licence in a week.

What’s On The Table?

• Automatic-only after automatic CBT: One big proposal sees learner riders passing their CBT on an automatic bike, then restricted to an automatic license. An easy fit for electric motorcycles and twist-and-go 125s, but it could be a sticking point for anyone planning to move across to manual bikes later.

• Theory test sooner: The DVSA is considering whether riders should take the motorcycle theory (and hazard perception) either before or as part of their CBT — a move that could tighten up the knowledge base before anyone gets out on the road.

• Progressive access courses: Instead of hopping between license categories via separate tests, there’s talk of a structured training pathway that helps you level up as you gain experience — potentially with fewer traditional tests and more real-world riding development.

• Modernising the system: Other ideas include updating the CBT syllabus itself, changing how instructors qualify, tweaking how long CBT certificates remain valid, and moving CBT administration onto a digital platform to cut down on paperwork.

What This Means For You

Nothing here is law yet. Riders, trainers, industry stakeholders — anyone with skin in the game — have until 31 March 2026 to respond to the DVSA’s consultation.

Given how central CBT and licensing are to UK motorcycling — and how much time and money they consume — this is one of those moments when rider input actually matters.

How to Have Your Say

The main route is the official DVSA online questionnaire. It walks through the proposals point by point and gives you space to add real-world experience. Click here, and click 'Start Now'

If online forms aren’t your thing, you can email them direct at consultations@dvsa.gov.uk

Bottom Line

This isn’t locked in yet, but it is a rare chance for riders to help shape how the next generation gets licensed — especially as electric motorcycles become a bigger part of everyday riding. If you’ve ever cursed the system (and who hasn’t?), make some noise while it still counts.

Ride safe, folks.

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