In April 2009 a new two module bike test was introduced in the UK.

The test involves an off-road and on road riding test taken in two separate modules.

As with the old test, riders must have successfully completed their CBT (Compulsory Basic Training) and a theory test, before being allowed sit modules one and two.

Once you’ve passed your CBT and theory test, you then have to decide whether to do the standard motorcycle licence or opt for the light motorcycle licence.

The light licence – which appears as the symbol A1 on a licence – restricts you to riding any bike up to 125cc and a power output of 11kW.

If you choose this option you will sit your test on a bike of 75cc to 125cc.

The standard licence – which usually appears as the letter A on a licence – allows riders who are 21 or older to ride any size of bike.

To achieve this, the practical test must be taken on a motorcycle with a power output of at least 35kW.

For riders under 21 the standard licence comes with restrictions.

Riders will be restricted to riding a bike of up to 25kW (33hp) and a power/weight ratio not exceeding 0.16 kW/kg for two years. After this they may ride any size of bike.

Anyone taking up this option must complete the practical test on a bike of 120-125cc which will achieve at least 100km/h.

Whether you choose the light licence or the standard licence you will have to complete the same practical tests and follow the same path through the CBT and theory test.

Here is a quick guide to what you can expect:

CBT
• You need to complete the CBT if you want to ride either a motorcycle or a moped (A moped has a 50cc engine or less and a top speed of 31mph).
• It has five elements:
A. introduction
B. practical on-site training
C. practical on-site riding
D. practical on-road training
E. practical on-road riding

Theory test
You must have passed your theory test before you book your practical test.

Even if you already hold a car licence you will have to complete the theory test to be able to ride a bike.

The theory test is made up of two parts, a multiple choice test and a hazard perception test. They are both completed on a computer.

The multiple choice test you will be asked 50 questions in 57 minutes and the pass mark is 43 out of 50. These questions will be specific to bike riding.

The hazard perception test involves watching 14 video clips and identifying the  hazards shown in each.  The key is to identify the hazards as early as possible to score the maximum of five points. You need to score 44 out of 75 to pass.

You must pass both parts of the test to be allowed to take your practical tests. If you fail either part you will have to resit the whole test.

Practical test: Module One
Module one is conducted on an off-road site and usually lasts around 20 minutes. To pass riders must successfully complete the following maneuvers:

• wheeling the machine and using the stand
• doing a slalom and figure of eight
• cornering, hazard avoidance and controlled stop
• U-turn
• a slow ride
• the emergency stop

There is a minimum speed requirement of approximately 32 miles per hour for the hazard avoidance and emergency stop exercises.

You will ride either a left-hand or a right-hand circuit. The lay out of which can be found on the DSA website.

You must pass module one before you are allowed to take module two.

Module two
Module two is conducted on the road. Riders will be asked to complete at least 30 minutes of road riding in a variety of road and traffic conditions.

You will also be required to complete normal stops and hill and angle starts.

There is also an eyesight test and road safety questions.