If you’re planning to ride a motorcycle, moped, or scooter on the roads in the UK, one of the first steps you’ll need to take is completing your Compulsory Basic Training (CBT). Whether you’re aiming for a quick commute on a 50cc scooter or dreaming of progressing to larger motorcycles later, CBT is your starting point.

But if you’re new to the process, you might wonder: How long does a CBT last? What does it involve? Do you need to retake it every year?

In this blog, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about Compulsory Basic Training—including how long the certificate lasts, what happens during the training day, and what your next steps should be.

What Is Compulsory Basic Training (CBT)?

Compulsory Basic Training (CBT) is a government-mandated course in the UK designed to ensure that motorcycle and moped riders have the essential skills needed to ride safely on public roads.

It’s important to understand that:

• CBT is not a test you pass or fail.
• It’s a course that you complete successfully by demonstrating safe riding habits.
• Once you complete it, you receive a CBT certificate (officially known as a DL196 certificate), allowing you to ride with certain restrictions.

You must have a valid CBT certificate if you want to:

• Ride a moped (up to 50cc) from age 16
• Ride a motorcycle or scooter up to 125cc from age 17

How Long Does a CBT Certificate Last?

A CBT certificate is valid for 2 years from the date you complete your training.

📅 Important Notes:

• If you don’t pass a full motorcycle licence test (theory and practical) within those 2 years, you must retake the CBT to continue riding legally.
• You can retake CBT as many times as needed.
• Some learners use their 2-year CBT window to gain experience before pursuing a full licence, while others renew their CBT every two years if they prefer to ride with L-plates indefinitely.

🎯 Key Point:
Always keep track of your CBT expiry date. Riding without a valid CBT can result in fines, points on your licence, or even a driving ban.

How Long Does the CBT Training Take?

On the day itself, CBT typically takes between 6 and 8 hours to complete.

However, the exact duration depends on:

• Your previous experience (completely new riders may need more time)
• The size of the training group
• Weather conditions
• Your ability to demonstrate safe riding skills confidently

It’s important to remember that CBT is not rushed—you’ll only complete the course when the instructor is satisfied that you’re safe to ride on the road.

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What Happens During a CBT Course?

The course is divided into five parts:

🏫 1. Introduction and Eye Test

• Overview of the course objectives and legal requirements.
• Vision check to ensure you meet the minimum eyesight standard (read a number plate from 20 metres).

🛠 2. Practical On-site Training

• Basic bike controls (brakes, throttle, clutch, gears, indicators).
• Basic maintenance checks.

🏍 3. Practical On-site Riding

• Practising manoeuvres like:
  • Controlled braking
  • Emergency stops
  • Figure-eights
  • Slow-speed control
  • Turning and cornering

🛣 4. Practical On-road Training

• Road rules, signs, and basic traffic laws.
• Planning safe routes, using mirrors, junctions, and roundabouts.

🛵 5. Practical On-road Riding

• At least 2 hours of riding on public roads under instructor supervision.
• Riding through various conditions (urban areas, roundabouts, dual carriageways where appropriate).

If you’re confident and competent in all five parts, you’ll receive your CBT certificate at the end of the day.

If you need extra training (e.g., struggling with clutch control or road awareness), the instructor may ask you to return for another session before issuing the certificate.

Who Needs to Take a CBT?

You must complete a CBT if you:

• Are aged 16 or over and want to ride a moped (up to 50cc).
• Are aged 17 or over and want to ride a motorcycle or scooter up to 125cc with L-plates.

You don’t need a CBT if:

• You obtained a full car licence before 1 February 2001 (you can ride a 50cc moped without L-plates).
• You already have a full motorcycle licence (Category A1, A2, or A).

What Restrictions Apply After Completing CBT?

Once you have your CBT certificate, you can ride with the following restrictions:

• Must display L-plates (or D-plates in Wales).
• Cannot carry passengers (no pillion riders).
• Cannot ride on motorways.
• Must stay within the engine size restrictions appropriate to your age and provisional licence.

To remove these restrictions, you must pass the theory test and then a practical motorcycle test for the appropriate licence category.

What Happens If My CBT Expires?

If your CBT certificate expires and you haven’t passed your full motorcycle test:

• You must stop riding immediately.
• You need to book and retake your CBT course to get a new 2-year certificate.

🚨 Reminder: Riding without a valid CBT is illegal and could result in fines, penalty points, and invalid insurance.

Can You Fail a CBT?

While CBT isn’t a pass/fail test like a driving exam, you can fail to complete the course if:

• You can’t demonstrate safe control of the bike.
• You don’t show good road awareness during on-road riding.
• You struggle with basic traffic procedures like junctions or roundabouts.

If this happens, it’s not the end of the road—you’ll simply need additional training sessions before reattempting.

Most training schools offer discounted rates for returning students who need a second day to complete the course.

Tips for Passing Your CBT First Time

• Get familiar with the Highway Code before your course.
• Practise riding a bicycle—good balance skills really help.
• Wear appropriate clothing: jeans, a sturdy jacket, and boots (many schools lend helmets and gloves).
• Stay relaxed—nerves are normal, but listening carefully to your instructor helps you progress quickly.
• Focus on basics: clutch control, smooth braking, mirror checks, and road positioning.

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Final Thoughts

Completing your Compulsory Basic Training is the first major milestone toward becoming a confident, independent motorcyclist. A CBT certificate lasts for 2 years, and the training day usually takes 6 to 8 hours. It’s a valuable investment in your skills and safety, opening up new freedom on two wheels.

🎯 Key Takeaways:

• CBT certification is valid for 2 years.
• The training day typically lasts 6–8 hours depending on your skill level.
• It’s not a pass/fail test but must be completed competently to get certified.
• After CBT, you can ride with L-plates and specific restrictions.
• Always renew or upgrade before your CBT expires to stay legal on the roads.

Ready to hit the road? A successful CBT is the first step on your motorcycling adventure!