Bike Test Near Me — Which One Do You Actually Need?
Searching for “bike test near me”? It’s a search that covers a lot of ground — there isn’t just one “bike test” in the UK, there are several, and which one you need depends on where you are in your riding journey. This page is here to help you work out exactly which test applies to you, explain what each one involves, and point you towards the right course at On Your Bike’s Warrington base, run by DVSA-approved instructor Angela.
Not Sure Which Bike Test You Need? Start Here
Never Ridden Before? You Need a CBT
If you’ve never sat on a motorcycle, moped or scooter, your starting point isn’t really a “test” at all — it’s Compulsory Basic Training (CBT). This one-day course gets you a DL196 certificate, which lets you legally ride up to 125cc on L-plates with a provisional licence. Read our beginner’s guide to bike CBT or find a CBT course near you.
Already Riding and Want to Progress? Module 1 and Module 2
Once you’ve built up some experience and want to ride without L-plates, carry a passenger, or move up to a bigger bike, you’ll need to pass the DVSA’s full motorcycle licence test. It’s split into two practical parts: Module 1 (off-road manoeuvres) and Module 2 (on-road riding). Prepare for your Module 1 test or prepare for your Module 2 test.
Aiming for a Full Licence? DAS or A2
If your end goal is to ride any motorcycle, of any size, without restrictions, you’ll be working towards a full licence through the Direct Access Scheme (DAS), or an A2 licence if you’re aged 19 to 23. Find out about full licence training (DAS & A2).
Need to Sit Your Theory First? Theory Test Preparation
Before you can book Module 1, you’ll need to pass the DVSA motorcycle theory test — a computer-based exam covering road rules and hazard perception. Get help preparing for your theory test.
A Quick Breakdown of Each Bike Test
CBT — Compulsory Basic Training
Not a pass-or-fail exam, but a legally-required one-day course covering the basics: machine control, balance, and a short supervised ride on local roads. Every new rider needs one before going on the road, and it’s valid for two years.
Theory Test
A DVSA computer-based test made up of multiple-choice questions and a hazard perception clip. You’ll need a pass certificate before you can book your Module 1 practical test.
Module 1
An off-road practical assessment of slow-speed control, U-turns, swerving, braking and emergency stops. You must pass this before progressing to Module 2.
Module 2
An on-road practical riding test that checks how you handle real traffic, junctions and general road awareness over roughly 25 minutes. Pass this, and you’ve got your full motorcycle licence.
Why Riders Choose On Your Bike to Get Test-Ready
DVSA-Approved Instruction
Whatever stage you’re at, you’ll be coached by a DVSA-approved instructor who knows exactly what examiners are looking for at each level.
One-to-One Coaching
No big groups, no sharing instructor time — every session is built around you, your pace, and the specific test you’re working towards.
Local to Warrington and Cheshire
Based at Thelwall Parish Hall, On Your Bike is easy to reach from Warrington, Lymm, Stockton Heath, Widnes, Runcorn and the wider Cheshire and Greater Manchester area.
Our Training Location
On Your Bike runs from Thelwall Parish Hall, Bell Lane, Thelwall, Warrington, WA4 2SX — a permanent base with off-road space for early-stage training and easy access to varied local roads for on-road test preparation.
Bike Test — Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the difference between a CBT and a full motorcycle test?
A CBT (Compulsory Basic Training) is a one-day course, not a pass-or-fail test — it gives you a certificate (DL196) to ride up to 125cc on L-plates with a provisional licence. A full motorcycle test is different: it’s the DVSA practical exam, split into Module 1 and Module 2, that you take to earn a full licence and ride without L-plates or passenger restrictions.
Do I have to pass Module 1 before I can take Module 2?
Yes. Module 1 is the off-road manoeuvres test, and you must pass it before you can book Module 2, the on-road riding test. Both form part of the DVSA’s full motorcycle licence test, and you’ll need a valid theory test pass before booking Module 1.
Can I skip CBT and go straight for my full motorcycle licence?
No — CBT is a legal requirement for every new rider, regardless of age or experience, before you can ride on the road. It’s the foundation everything else builds on, including your eventual Module 1 and Module 2 tests.
Which bike test should I prepare for first?
Start with your CBT if you haven’t already got one — it’s the only way to legally ride on the road as a beginner. From there, work towards your theory test, then Module 1, then Module 2, in that order. On Your Bike can guide you through each stage.
Wherever you are on your riding journey, On Your Bike can help you take the next step. Find a CBT course near you, explore our test preparation courses, or call us on 01925 551 555 to talk through which test is right for you.