Motorcyclists are among the most vulnerable road users. They account for around 1% of traffic on Great Britain’s roads, but 21% of deaths or serious injuries.

The proposed changes aim to reduce the number of people killed or seriously injured by making sure new riders are better prepared for the realities of riding on modern roads.

Improving training to help you through a lifetime of safe riding

Compulsory basic training ( CBT ) is a course you usually have to take before you ride a moped or motorcycle on the road. It makes sure you can ride safely on your own while you practise for your full moped or motorcycle test.

The course is provided by instructors who have either been assessed by DVSA , or have been trained directly by another DVSA -assessed instructor.

Improving how the system works for riders

Some of the proposed changes include:

taking away (revoking) CBT certificates from riders who get 6 penalty points - it would stop them from riding with L plates after getting points for offences including careless or dangerous riding

certificates from riders who get 6 penalty points - it would stop them from riding with L plates after getting points for offences including careless or dangerous riding considering whether learner riders should need to either pass a theory test before they take a CBT course, or as part of their course

course, or as part of their course restricting riders who take their CBT course on an automatic motorcycle to only riding automatics

It’s also proposed that the CBT course syllabus is changed from 5 parts to 4, focussing on:

aims of CBT and the importance of equipment

and the importance of equipment on-site training

motorcycling theory

on-road practical riding

Training courses to upgrade motorcycle licences

DVSA also wants your views on a proposal to introduce a training course that existing riders can take to upgrade their motorcycle licence, rather than having to take extra tests.

Improved instructors and training schools

DVSA is considering making changes to:

improve the way that instructors qualify to provide motorcycle training

increase the range of checks that DVSA carries out on motorcycle training schools

carries out on motorcycle training schools introduce a system for motorcycle training schools to be given recognition for consistently high standards

Another proposal looks at options for replacing the existing paper-based training system with a digital service. This will improve the quality of records of those who have taken CBT , and make the system more efficient.

Have your say on the proposals by 17 February 2017.

Skills and knowledge to ride safely

DVSA Chief Executive, Gareth Llewellyn, said:

DVSA ’s first priority is helping everyone stay safe on Great Britain’s roads. Our roads are among the safest in the world, but we’re determined to do more to improve safety for all road users, including newly-qualified motorcyclists. We want to modernise motorcycle training so that novice riders gain the skills and experience they need to help them and everyone else to stay safe on our roads.

Karen Cole, Director of Safety and Training for the Motorcycle Industry Association, said: