UK Motorcycle Licence Changes: What Could Happen to CBT?

Motorcycle licence changes could be on the way in Great Britain, and they could affect everything from CBT to the way riders progress to a full motorcycle licence.

The government consultation closed on 11 May 2026, but as of October, responses were still being analysed. Nothing has changed yet, so if you're learning to ride, there's no need to panic or change your plans just because of the proposals.

Here's what could be coming and what it means for riders.

What Motorcycle Licence Changes Are Being Proposed?

The DVSA has been looking at ways to modernise motorcycle training and licensing, with the aim of improving safety and encouraging more riders to move beyond learner status.

The proposals include updating the CBT syllabus, introducing new training routes, reviewing how long CBT certificates remain valid and potentially requiring a theory test before or as part of CBT.

There's also a proposal to better align training with the type of motorcycle being ridden. One example is restricting learners to automatic motorcycles if they complete their CBT on an automatic machine.

These are consultation proposals, not final decisions. The government has not confirmed which measures, if any, will be introduced.

Could CBT Change?

CBT has been a familiar part of learning to ride since 1990. Under the current rules, a CBT certificate normally lasts two years, allowing eligible learners to ride a motorcycle up to 125cc and 11kW, provided they meet the other learner requirements and display L plates.

The proposed changes could bring a refreshed syllabus, with more structured on-road training and updated content for modern traffic conditions. The draft syllabus includes material on filtering between cars and large vehicles.

The government is also considering changes to certificate validity and digital administration. However, there is no confirmed new CBT expiry period, and riders should continue following the existing rules until official changes are announced.

Could Getting a Full Motorcycle Licence Become Easier?

One of the more interesting proposals is a structured training route for riders moving up to a higher licence category, potentially reducing the need to repeat practical tests.

That could matter to A2 licence holders who want to progress to a full category A licence. At present, the upgrade route requires riders to meet the eligibility requirements and pass both practical test modules.

A training-based route could offer a different way to demonstrate competence, but the details have not been finalised. It would be wrong to assume that practical tests are being scrapped.

The consultation also looks at instructor qualifications and ways to improve the quality and consistency of motorcycle training.

When Will the New Rules Start?

There's no confirmed implementation date. In written parliamentary answers dated September 2026, the government said it was still analysing responses to the consultation.

For now, learners should continue to follow the current licensing rules, including CBT, theory test and practical test requirements where applicable. The official GOV.UK motorcycle licensing consultation is the best place to check for updates.

Personally, I think improving training makes sense if it helps riders become more confident and capable without adding unnecessary cost or red tape. The important thing is that any new system makes learning to ride safer and progression clearer, rather than simply making it harder to get on two wheels.

What do you think? Should riders be able to progress through structured training instead of taking another set of practical tests, or are the current rules there for a good reason?