DSA announces two-part motorcycle test

A new two-part motorcycle test will be introduced in April, the Driving Standards Agency (DSA) has announced.

The existing single-event test will be replaced by a new test that will be taken in two parts. Bookings will be taken from the 30 March at the latest, with the first tests taking place on 27 April.

Module 1 will contain the specified manoeuvres element of the test including exercises designed to assess the rider's ability to control their machine safely, including avoidance and emergency stop exercises.

Module 2 will include an eyesight test and at least 30 minutes of on road riding, assessing the rider's ability to safely interact with other road users.

DSA's Chief Executive Rosemary Thew said: "I would like to thank all those who took time to respond to our recent consultation on the future of the motorcycle test.

"We have listened to the motorcycling industry and introducing a two part test means we can provide more locations from which to conduct tests and offer a step-by-step, considered approach to learning to ride. Candidates will have time to absorb each separate important stage.

"DSA hopes to offer greater coverage of sites from which the Module 1 specified manoeuvres element of the test may be taken. We will also be able to use some of our existing test centres to conduct the on-road Module 2 tests. This should mean shorter journey times for candidates and trainers alike. "

The overall motorcycle test fee will remain unchanged in March. The existing fee will be split across both modules - so candidates only have to pay for each section of the test as they take it. The fee split will be £10.00 for Module 1 and £70.00 for Module 2.

As announced in the 2008/9 DSA Business plan, the cost of the motorcycling test will undergo its annual increment and rise to £90.50 in October 2009. The cost of Module 1 will then be £15.50 and Module 2, £75.00.