What is the CBT test and what does it involve?

The CBT (Compulsory Basic Training) test is a practical, one-day assessment made up of five elements (A to E): an introduction and eyesight check, practical on-site training, practical on-site riding, practical on-road training, and a two-hour minimum on-road ride. There's no pass/fail exam in the traditional sense — your instructor assesses you throughout the day, and you receive your DL196 CBT certificate the same day once they're satisfied you can ride safely and competently on the road.

How long does the CBT test take and do I need to pass an exam?

A CBT course typically takes one full day, though it can sometimes be split across two if needed. There's no formal pass-or-fail exam — instead, your DVSA-approved instructor observes and assesses you continuously through all five elements (A–E), including a minimum two hours of on-road riding. If your instructor is satisfied you can ride safely and competently, you'll be issued your DL196 CBT certificate on the same day, which is valid for two years.

What are the five elements (A-E) of the CBT test?

The CBT test covers five elements: Element A is an introduction, including eyesight checks and an overview of the day; Element B is practical on-site training covering the controls and how the motorcycle works; Element C is practical on-site riding, where you build confidence manoeuvring the bike in a controlled area; Element D is practical on-road training, covering theory like The Highway Code, road positioning and hazard awareness; and Element E is a minimum two-hour practical on-road ride with your instructor, putting everything you've learned into practice on real roads.

How can I make sure I pass my CBT first time?

The best way to pass your CBT first time is genuinely one-to-one training with an experienced, DVSA-approved instructor — which is exactly what On Your Bike provides in Warrington. Listen carefully during Elements A to D, ask questions if anything is unclear, and don't rush the on-site riding practice in Element C, as building confidence here makes the on-road riding in Element E far easier. Wear comfortable layers, arrive well-rested, and remember that your instructor wants you to succeed: CBT is an assessment of safe, competent riding, not a test designed to catch you out.

CBT Tests in Warrington — What to Expect & How to Pass

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What Is the CBT Test?

Compulsory Basic Training (CBT) isn’t a pass-or-fail exam in the traditional sense — it’s a structured one-day assessment made up of five elements (A to E). Your DVSA-approved instructor works through each stage with you until you can safely and competently complete it. Pass all five and you’ll receive your DL196 certificate the same day, letting you ride a 50cc–125cc motorcycle or scooter on UK roads with L-plates for two years.

Element A — Introduction

Eyesight check, paperwork and an introduction to the motorcycle, its controls and basic safety equipment before you get moving.

Element B — On-Site Bike Handling

Learning the controls, balance, moving off, stopping, steering and gear changes in a controlled, traffic-free environment.

Element C — On-Site Riding Practice

Building confidence with manoeuvres including emergency stops, slow control, turns and observation — all before heading onto the road.

Element D — Practical Theory

A session covering the Highway Code, road positioning, hazard awareness and the rules every rider needs before going on-road.

Element E — On-Road Riding

A minimum of two hours riding on real roads with your instructor in radio contact, covering junctions, roundabouts and varied conditions.

Same-Day DL196 Certificate

Complete all five elements to the required standard and you’ll leave with your CBT certificate in hand — ready to ride that day.

Why Take Your CBT Test With On Your Bike?

DVSA Approved

All training and assessment meets DVSA standards, delivered by approved instructor Angela with years of experience getting riders through first time.

All Bikes & Gear Provided

Turn up and ride — we provide the motorcycle, helmet, gloves, jacket and hi-viz, so there’s nothing to organise beforehand.

Warrington Based

Based at Thelwall Parish Hall, Bell Lane, Thelwall, WA4 2SX — a quiet, purpose-suited site close to the M6 and easy to reach from across the North West.

Our Training Location

Thelwall Parish Hall, Bell Lane, Thelwall, Warrington, WA4 2SX. Free parking on site. 10 minutes from Warrington town centre and easily reached from junction 20 of the M6. We also welcome riders travelling from Widnes, Runcorn, Wigan, St Helens, Altrincham and across Cheshire.

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