Big Changes Could Be Coming to CBT and Motorcycle Training – What Riders Need to Know
Motorcycle training in the UK could be heading for its biggest shake-up in decades. The Government has been reviewing Compulsory Basic Training (CBT), motorcycle testing and licensing, with a range of proposals aimed at improving road safety and encouraging more riders to progress towards a full motorcycle licence.
For learner riders, experienced motorcyclists, delivery riders and anyone thinking about getting on two wheels, these potential changes are well worth understanding.
At Rider Works Motorcycle Training School, we believe that good training is about more than simply obtaining a certificate. It is about developing the skills, knowledge and confidence to ride safely in real-world traffic. Here, we look at what the Government has proposed, what could change and what it means for you.
Why is motorcycle training being reviewed?
CBT was introduced in 1990 to ensure that learner motorcyclists receive basic training before riding independently on the road.
Since then, the way we use motorcycles has changed considerably. More people rely on scooters and motorcycles for commuting, while the growth of app-based delivery work has brought new demands and challenges for riders.
The Department for Transport and the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) have identified opportunities to modernise the existing training, testing and licensing system.
In January 2026, the DVSA launched its consultation, Improving moped and motorcycle training, testing and licensing. It invited views on a package of possible reforms covering CBT, theory testing, instructor qualifications and the route towards a full licence.
The consultation closed on 11 May 2026. As of October 2026, the Government has stated that it is analysing the responses and will publish the outcome on GOV.UK.
The important point is that these are proposed changes, not a new set of rules that learners should assume is already in force. The final arrangements and implementation dates depend on subsequent Government decisions and any necessary legal changes.
1. Could taking your CBT on an automatic restrict what you can ride?
One proposal under consideration is to restrict learner riders to automatic motorcycles or mopeds if they complete their CBT on an automatic machine.
Under the current arrangements, completing CBT on an automatic does not, by itself, prevent a learner from riding a manual motorcycle within the limits of their provisional entitlement.
The proposed change could introduce a closer link between the type of machine used during training and the type of machine a learner can subsequently ride.
What could this mean for learners?
If this proposal is adopted, choosing the right training bike could become even more important.
For example, if your long-term goal is to ride a geared 125cc motorcycle, completing your CBT on a manual bike could be an important consideration.
If you only intend to ride an automatic scooter, an automatic CBT course may still suit your needs.
At Rider Works, we recommend thinking about your future riding plans before booking your training, so you can make an informed choice about the most suitable route.
3. A revised CBT syllabus with more structured road training
The existing CBT syllabus has remained largely unchanged since its introduction in 1990.
The Government has proposed updating the syllabus to reflect modern roads, current training practices and the hazards riders face today.
The consultation includes proposals to refresh the course structure and terminology, with the aim of allowing more time for practical on-road training by developing remote theoretical learning.
One proposed change would divide the minimum two-hour on-road training session into two phases:
At least one hour of on-road riding.
A period of reflection and discussion, allowing the rider to consider feedback and learning points.
A second on-road phase of at least one hour.
The proposal also includes updated material on topics such as filtering between traffic and large vehicles.
Why could this be beneficial?
Structured feedback gives learners an opportunity to understand what went well, identify areas for improvement and apply that learning during the next phase of riding.
Filtering, positioning around larger vehicles, judging traffic movement and anticipating hazards are all important skills for riding in busy towns and cities.
However, these are proposals for a revised syllabus. Riders should not assume that every training school is already required to deliver the proposed format.
4. Could the rules around renewing CBT change?
This is one of the proposals that could have a considerable impact on regular learner riders.
Currently, a CBT certificate generally lasts for two years. Riders who have not obtained a full motorcycle licence by the end of that period normally need to complete CBT again if they wish to continue riding under their provisional entitlement.
The Government is considering changes to the CBT certificate's validity period and whether riders should have to wait for a minimum period after their certificate expires before they can take another CBT course.
The intention is to explore ways of encouraging riders to progress beyond provisional riding and obtain a full licence.
Parliamentary written answers have highlighted that 77,000 learner riders repeated CBT between March 2023 and March 2025.
What could this mean for you?
If you currently renew your CBT every two years, any changes to the validity period or repeat-training arrangements could affect your future plans.
Depending on the final rules, riders may need to plan their theory test, practical training and full licence tests more carefully.
This could be particularly relevant to people who use motorcycles for commuting or delivery work and rely on their CBT to remain on the road.
For now, the existing requirements remain the point of reference. We recommend checking official DVSA guidance before making decisions about your licence or certificate.
5. A new route for progressing to a larger motorcycle
The consultation also considered a progressive access training course for riders who want to move up to a larger or more powerful motorcycle.
At present, riders progress through the relevant licence categories and meet the applicable age, experience and testing requirements.
A revised approach could provide a more structured training route for riders looking to develop their skills as they move to a higher motorcycle category.
The detail will depend on the Government's final decisions, but the underlying issue is important: experience on a small motorcycle does not automatically prepare every rider for the additional performance, weight and handling characteristics of a larger machine.
Further training can help riders develop better control, observation, road positioning and hazard awareness before moving on to more powerful motorcycles.
If your ambition is to progress from a 125cc motorcycle to an A2 or full Category A licence, it is worth understanding the existing licence routes and planning your training accordingly.
6. Could motorcycle instructor qualifications change?
The proposals are not just about learners. The Government is also considering changes to how motorcycle instructors qualify.
Options raised in the consultation include revising the existing instructor qualification by combining CBT and Direct Access Scheme assessment elements, or introducing a separate qualification for instructors who are authorised to train other instructors.
The aim is to review the qualification framework and the way training quality is maintained.
For motorcycle training schools, any changes could have implications for instructor development, business planning and how training is delivered.
For learners, instructor competence and consistent training standards are essential parts of the process. Whatever the eventual arrangements, effective instruction should help riders understand not only what to do, but why a particular riding decision is safer.
7. Could CBT certificates move to a digital system?
The DVSA has also identified the development of a digital service for managing CBT administration as a potential improvement.
A digital system could help with record-keeping, certificate checks, compliance and the administration of training courses.
For riders, a more streamlined system could eventually make it easier to manage training records and confirm certificate details.
For training schools, it could change how courses are recorded and administered.
The exact features and introduction timetable will depend on the Government's decisions and any subsequent implementation work.
What should learner riders do now?
With several potential changes being considered, it is understandable that learners may be wondering whether they should wait before booking their CBT.
Our advice at Rider Works is straightforward: don't make decisions based on rumours or assume a proposal has already become law.
If you are planning to start riding, these are sensible steps to take now:
Check your licence entitlement. Make sure you understand what you can legally ride and the restrictions that apply to you.
Choose the right training bike. Think about whether you want to ride an automatic scooter or a manual motorcycle, particularly if the proposed transmission restrictions concern you.
Start learning the theory. Familiarise yourself with the Highway Code, motorcycle-specific rules and hazard perception.
Plan your next steps. If you want to progress to a full licence, learn about the theory and practical tests and the relevant licence categories.
Use reliable information. Check the latest DVSA motorcycle guidance and official Government announcements for confirmed changes.
Our view at Rider Works Motorcycle Training School
Motorcycle training needs to prepare people for the realities of riding on today's roads. That means developing practical control, good observation, sound judgement and an understanding of how to anticipate hazards.
A certificate is an important milestone, but it should also be the beginning of a rider's ongoing development.
The proposals being considered could change how new riders prepare for CBT, how training is structured and how learners progress towards a full licence. They could also affect people who rely on motorcycles for work.
Until the Government confirms the outcome, the best approach is to stay informed, continue developing your skills and make training decisions based on the rules that currently apply.
At Rider Works, we're here to help you understand the process, prepare for your training and work towards your motorcycle riding goals.
Frequently asked questions
Has CBT changed in 2026?
The DVSA consulted on possible changes in January 2026, and the consultation closed on 11 May. The Government has said it is analysing the responses. The proposals should not be treated as confirmed new requirements unless and until official changes are announced.
Will I have to pass my theory test before CBT?
Not under the general current rules. Requiring a theory and hazard perception test before or during the CBT process is one of the options the Government consulted on.
Will CBT still last two years?
The current general validity period is two years. The Government has considered changing this and potentially introducing restrictions on repeating CBT, but you should check official guidance for any confirmed changes.
Will completing CBT on an automatic mean I cannot ride a manual?
Under the current arrangements, completing CBT on an automatic does not, by itself, restrict you to automatic machines. A restriction of this kind was included in the Government's consultation, so check the final rules before booking if your choice of motorcycle matters to you.
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