CBT training – learn to ride with confidence
CBT training that builds real confidence, not just a certificate. With small groups, professional instructors and more time on the bike, you’ll leave ready for the road instead of feeling rushed through it.
Book CBT at your branch
What is CBT?
CBT (Compulsory Basic Training) is a structured course set by the DVSA so you can ride safely on the road. It is split into 5 elements (A–E), and you must complete each one safely before moving on to the next.
CBT isn’t a test you pass or fail, and it isn’t time-based. It’s based on your ability and safety. Most riders complete it in one day. If you need more time to reach a safe standard, we’ll explain what to work on and arrange extra training.
After CBT you can ride a moped if you’re 16 or over, or a motorcycle up to 125cc (up to 11kW) if you’re 17 or over, on L plates. A CBT certificate lasts 2 years.
CBT prices
| Bike | Weekday (Mon–Fri) | Weekend (Sat & Sun) |
|---|---|---|
| Your own bike | £179 | £204 |
| School automatic / scooter | £199 | £224 |
| School manual (geared) bike | £219 | £244 |
Helmets, jackets (sizes S–XL), gloves, waterproofs and a hi-vis vest are provided free of charge. Motorcycle boots and trousers can be hired for £20 when you book online, or £30 at the branch.
IMT – Introduction to Motorcycle Training
IMT is 3 hours of one-to-one training with an instructor. It costs the same as CBT: £179 on your own bike, £199 on a school automatic or scooter, and £219 on a school manual bike, plus £25 at weekends. It can be ideal if you’re nervous or new to riding and would like some one-to-one time before your CBT.
To book an IMT, use our online booking or call us on 020 8012 7929.
What happens on the day
- Introduction and eyesight/licence check: you’ll need to read a number plate from 20 metres, and we check your licence.
- Element A – Introduction: the aims of CBT, suitable helmets and clothing, and the legal requirements.
- Element B – Practical on-site training: how the bike works, basic checks, and getting used to its weight and balance.
- Element C – Practical on-site riding: controlled manoeuvres, braking, changing gear and observations.
- Element D – On-road preparation: road positioning, separation distances, speed, anticipating other road users and hazards.
- Element E – On-road riding: at least 2 hours on real roads, including traffic lights, roundabouts, junctions, crossings, hills and bends, plus a U-turn and an emergency stop.
CBT days start at 7:45am (7am on Saturdays and Sundays at Chingford) and usually finish between 3pm and 5pm, depending on the road ride.
What to bring
- Your valid UK provisional or full driving licence (the physical card). An EU licence needs to be exchanged for a UK one, or accompanied by a UK counterpart (D9 form from the Post Office).
- Glasses or contact lenses if you need them to read a number plate at 20 metres (licence code 01).
- Helmets, jackets (sizes S–XL), gloves, waterproofs and a hi-vis vest are provided free of charge. Motorcycle boots and trousers can be hired for £20 when you book online, or £30 at the branch.
- Suitable clothing: if you’re not hiring, wear sturdy clothes, such as jeans, and shoes or boots that cover your ankles.
Nervous about CBT?
That’s completely normal. Most of our riders have never ridden before. Our instructors build your confidence step by step, at your pace, with no pressure and no rushing. You’ll get clear guidance from start to finish. And if you want to learn on a manual bike with no experience, we won’t say no.
Modern bikes and kit
Learn on well-kept, modern scooters and motorcycles, automatic or manual, with Bluetooth radio coaching on the road. Helmets, jackets (sizes S–XL), gloves, waterproofs and hi-vis vests are clean, in good condition and provided free of charge, and motorcycle boots and trousers can be hired for £20 when you book online, or £30 at the branch.
Book CBT at your nearest site
Chingford
3 Morrison Avenue, London, E4 8SN
Hatfield
1 College Lane, Hatfield, Hertfordshire, AL10 9PJ
West Thurrock
Cowdray Hall, 560 London Road, West Thurrock, Grays, Essex, RM20 3BJ
CBT near you
Looking for CBT near a particular town? These pages explain how to reach our nearest training site:
West Thurrock: Grays, Romford, Basildon, Dartford and Brentwood.
Chingford: Walthamstow, Enfield, Ilford and Harlow.
Hatfield: St Albans, Welwyn Garden City, Stevenage and Luton.
Ready to start riding?
Book your CBT today. It’s the first step towards your full motorcycle licence.