How to pass your module tests

You’ve passed your CBT, but what’s next? When you’re learning to ride, to get your full bike licence you’ll need to sit a number of theory and practical riding tests, each consisting of two parts called mod 1 and mod 2. On this page we’ll explain exactly what the module 1 and module 2 tests are, and when you need to take them. We’ll also give you a few tips to pass along the way. 

When can I take the module 1 or module 2 tests? 

Before you even think about the tests, it’s worth understanding what pathway you’re on – as it has a lot to do with your age. The bike licence system works like this; you qualify in a series of steps known as ‘staged access’ and if you’re over 24, you may be able to skip certain parts in what is called direct access.

If you’re 17-18 years of age, you can sit a theory and practical test for a full motorcycle licence, enabling you to ditch your L-plates and ride on the motorway. But you will only hold an A1 licence which limits you to 125cc and 14.8bhp – the same power and capacity limits as before.

Alternatively, you can hold on to your CBT until you turn 19 and then take a two-part practical test to qualify for an A2 licence. This will limit you to 47bhp (35kw) and no more than 0.26bhp per kilogram (0.2kw/kg).

Once you’ve had an A2 licence for two years, you can take another two-part practical test to finally get your A licence to ride any bike you want. This makes the minimum age to qualify for an unlimited bike 21, so long as you have the relevant experience.

Alternatively, if you are 24 or over, can take one theory and practical test for an A licence. The theory test involves multiple choice questions and a hazard awareness exam using video clips. Both parts are taken using a computer and it costs £23.

What is the module one and module two test?

With that out the way, we can move on to the module one and module two tests. In 2023, the full bike test is split into two parts; an intensive closed test that deals with precise bike control and manoeuvres, and a second road test. The latter involves you being tailed by an assessor and is more like the driving test. 

Which module is harder? It depends very much on the person. Many riders prefer the road test as it’s more like riding on a day-to-day basis, while others prefer the more predictable conditions of the module one. 

These module tests can be booked separately or together, but must both be passed within two years of the theory test.

What to expect from the Mod 1 practical test on your motorcycle

The Module 1 practical test normally takes about 20 minutes and includes:

• Wheeling the bike and using its stand
• Riding a slalom and figure of eight
• A slow ride
• A U-turn
• Cornering and a controlled stop
• Cornering and an emergency stop
• Cornering and hazard avoidance, during which you must be riding at a minimum speed of 19mph on a moped or 31mph on a motorcycle

Once you have completed the test, your examiner will tell you if you have passed or failed having made note of dangerous faults (those that involve danger to you, the examiner or the public or property), serious faults (which are potentially dangerous) or riding faults (which aren’t potentially dangerous, but could become serious if you keep on making them).

To pass Module 1 you must have no serious or dangerous faults (these are sometimes called major faults) and no more than five riding faults (often called minor faults).

If you pass, the examiner will tell you what faults, if any, you made and give you a pass certificate. You will need to take this with you to your Module 2 test. If you fail, you will need to rebook your Module 1 test and pay again, waiting at least three working days from the date of your failure.

If you have already booked your Module 2 then you may need to reschedule this as well and be aware that you will lose your fee if you don’t give three full days’ notice.

It’s worth noting here that a lot of people fail this part of the motorcycle test. We’d suggest some specialist training before taking the plunge, because there are some specific skills you’ll need in order to complete it successfully. In particular, the U-turn, slalom and figure-of-eights can cause issues if you’ve not learnt slow riding correctly. This part of the test is a fair bit more challenging than what you’ll do on the CBT, so it’s worth spending some time on.

What to expect from the Mod 2 practical motorcycle test

Module 2 of the practical motorcycle licence concerns more advanced manoeuvring. It takes around an hour and begins with an eye test – you’ll need to prove you can read a standard numberplate from 20.5 metres away (or 20 metres if it’s a new-style numberplate), as will have been checked when you did your CBT.

You’ll then be set a number of questions about motorcycle maintenance and safety.

A road drive of around 30 minutes follows. This should include a variety of road and traffic conditions, along with a range of situations such as angle and hill starts.

The test takes place in full radio contact with your instructor, and will include 10 minutes of independent riding to assess your ability to follow instructions and/or road signs.

At all other times the instructor will tell you which way to go, and don’t worry if you take a wrong turn – this isn’t a test of your navigational skills, it’s more about how you perform on your bike.

How much do the Mod 1 and Mod 2 tests cost?

Module 1 will be £15.50 and Module 2 costs £75 on weekdays or £88.50 for evenings and weekends, not including the training aspect beforehand. The whole shebang including training can come to around £700.

What’s next?

Many instructors say that most of your learning on the bike comes after you pass your module one and module two tests. There’s no substitute for time in the saddle, but in our opinion – particularly for new riders – some of the best money you can spend in your formative years is on advanced motorcycle training. You can read more about that here.