Motorbike Licence Costs in the UK
Obtaining a full motorbike licence in the UK involves several steps and costs, from getting your provisional licence to completing training and passing tests. Understanding the full cost of getting your motorbike licence can help you budget for this exciting milestone.
💡 The cost of getting a full motorbike licence includes fees for your provisional licence, compulsory basic training (CBT), theory test, practical tests, and training courses. Knowing what to expect can help you plan and avoid unexpected expenses.
How Much is a Full Motorbike Licence in the UK?
Provisional Motorbike Licence: £34 online or £43 by post.
Compulsory Basic Training (CBT): £100 to £150 for the one-day course, which is mandatory before riding on the road.
Theory Test: £23 for the motorcycle theory test.
Practical Test: £15.50 for weekday tests or £75 for extended tests on evenings/weekends.
Training Courses: £400 to £800 for intensive training courses preparing you for the practical test.
Total Cost: £572.50 to £1,072.50 for the complete process, depending on training and test options chosen.
For example, a typical route to a full motorbike licence might cost: provisional licence £34, CBT £120, theory test £23, training course £500, and practical test £15.50, totalling around £692.50.
Factors that Affect the Cost of Motorbike Licence in the UK
🏍️ Licence Category
Different licence categories (A1, A2, A) have different requirements and costs. A1 (light motorcycles up to 125cc) is the cheapest route, while Category A (unrestricted) requires more training and may cost more. The category you choose depends on your age and the type of motorcycle you want to ride.
📚 Training Provider
Training costs vary significantly between providers. Intensive courses at established training schools typically cost £400 to £800, while individual lessons may cost £30 to £50 per hour. Some schools offer package deals that include CBT, training, and test fees, which can provide better value.
⏱️ Training Duration
The amount of training you need depends on your experience and ability. Complete beginners may need 3-5 days of intensive training, while those with some experience may need less. More training increases costs but improves your chances of passing first time, potentially saving money on retests.
🔄 Test Retakes
If you fail your theory or practical test, you'll need to pay again to retake. Theory test retakes cost £23, while practical test retakes cost £15.50 to £75 depending on timing. Additional training before retakes also adds to costs.
📍 Location
Training and test costs can vary by location, with prices typically higher in London and the South East. Some areas may have longer waiting times for tests, potentially requiring travel to other test centres. Always compare local providers to find the best value.
How to Save Money on Motorbike Licence in the UK
💡 Compare Training Providers
Get quotes from multiple training schools before committing. Prices can vary significantly, and some schools offer package deals that include CBT, training, and test fees at a discounted rate. Look for schools with good pass rates, as this reduces the likelihood of expensive retakes.
🏥 Book Tests Early
Book your theory and practical tests as early as possible to secure cheaper weekday slots. Evening and weekend tests cost significantly more (£75 vs £15.50). Planning ahead also gives you more time to prepare, improving your chances of passing first time.
💷 Consider Package Deals
Many training schools offer package deals that include CBT, training, and test fees at a discounted rate. These packages can save you £100 to £200 compared to booking everything separately. Always check what's included and compare with individual costs.
🔍 Practice on Your Own
If you have access to a suitable motorcycle and private land, you can practice some skills on your own after completing CBT. However, professional training is highly recommended for safety and to improve your chances of passing. Never practice on public roads without proper supervision and insurance.
✨ Apply Online
Apply for your provisional licence online to save £9 compared to postal applications. Online applications are also processed faster, typically within one week. This applies to both car and motorcycle provisional licences.
FAQs
How much does a full motorbike licence cost?
A full motorbike licence typically costs £572.50 to £1,072.50 in total, including provisional licence (£34), CBT (£100-£150), theory test (£23), training course (£400-£800), and practical test (£15.50-£75). Costs vary based on training provider, location, and whether you need retakes.
Do I need CBT for a motorbike licence?
Yes, Compulsory Basic Training (CBT) is mandatory before you can ride on the road, even with L-plates. CBT costs £100 to £150 and is a one-day course covering basic riding skills and road safety. You must complete CBT before taking your practical test, and it's valid for two years.
How long does it take to get a motorbike licence?
The time to get a full motorbike licence varies, but typically takes 2-4 weeks for complete beginners. This includes: getting your provisional licence (1 week), completing CBT (1 day), passing theory test (can book immediately), training course (3-5 days), and practical test (depends on availability). Those with experience may complete it faster.
What's the difference between A1, A2, and A motorbike licences?
A1 licence (age 17+) allows riding motorcycles up to 125cc. A2 licence (age 19+) allows motorcycles up to 35kW. Category A (age 24+ or after 2 years on A2) allows unrestricted motorcycles. Each category requires different training and tests, with costs typically increasing for higher categories. The process and costs are similar, but Category A may require more advanced training.
Can I use my car licence for a motorbike?
If you passed your car test before 2001, you may have automatic entitlement to ride mopeds (up to 50cc). Otherwise, you need a separate motorbike licence. Having a car licence doesn't exempt you from CBT, theory test, or practical test requirements for motorcycles. You'll need to complete the full motorbike licence process.
Conclusion
🎯 Getting a full motorbike licence costs £572.50 to £1,072.50 in total, including all fees, training, and tests. While the upfront cost is significant, proper training is essential for safety and improves your chances of passing first time. Compare training providers, look for package deals, and book tests early to save money. With careful planning and choosing the right training provider, you can obtain your motorbike licence efficiently and safely.
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Jane Smith |
| Am British, live in London (1985–present) |
