Testing times for new riders

The Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) has launched a consultation on proposed changes to improve motorcycle training and licencing.

The changes look to make sure that new motorcyclists gain the skills and knowledge they need to ride safely, while also make it fairer and treat new drivers and riders alike. Part of this will be the simplification of CBT, and faster skills-based progression to a full licence, with fewer tests.

European legislation allows Member States to introduce a training option to provide entitlement to ride larger motorcycles by progressive access, without the need to take a further test. A training option must cover the same elements as the practical test and the course must last for a minimum of 7 hours.

“We have some of the safest roads in the world and we want to make them even safer. These changes will equip learners with a wide range of experience and greater skill set which will improve safety levels on our roads,” said Transport Minister Andrew Jones.

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The five-fold main proposals also target improvements in instructor training and monitoring.

The new DVSA licence proposals include:

• updating and simplifying the content and structure of Compulsory Basic Training (CBT), including the aims of CBT and the important of equipment, on-site training, motorcycling theory, and on-road practical riding
• explore whether novice riders should take a theory test before or as part of their CBT, which isn’t currently a requirement
• revoke compulsory basic training (CBT) certificates if a provisional licence holder gets 6 penalty points
• restrict learner riders to only riding automatic motorcycles if they take their CBT on one
• to move the administration of CBT from its current paper-based system, to a digital platform will also be explored

“We want to modernise motorcycle training so that novice riders gain the skills and knowledge they need to help them and everyone else to stay safe on our roads,” said DVSA Chief Executive, Gareth Llewellyn.

The consultation has been published on GOV.UK and you can add your voice to the proposaled changes until February 17, 2017 – it only takes a few minutes to complete the simple online form.

Karen Cole, Director of Safety and Training for the Motorcycle Industry Association, added: “We’re delighted to see DVSA has launched this consultation. We believe that the introduction of a new training course is positive and will encourage more riders to use the progressive licence route. We’re also supportive of the proposals to update the qualification arrangements for motorcycle instructors as these will help the training industry.”

 

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