Getting a motorcycle licence?

sean2257

I'm 17, and would like to get a moped/scooter. Just something for getting to work, or going to the shop. I did my Theory test a year ago.

Do I need to do a different theory test for a moped, or was it covered in the one I already did?

After my Theory, what's next?

What's tax + insurance like for mopeds/scooters?

I presume there's a practical test?

Thanks for the help!

cantdecide

Firstly, bikes are complicated but the answers are out there, just take things one step at a time. The thing to remember is that there is one licence category for cars but there are effectively four categories for bike which makes things challenging to understand how they work together. The basic principle that I always espouse is that you should go for the biggest bike you can get because it's virtually the same hassle and expense to get as far as passing the scooter test as it is for the biggest superbikes on the road.

When you say you did the theory test, do you mean the car (or tractor for a guy your age) theory test - the 'BW' theory test? If you have not done the theory test for all motorcycles and scooters (this is the 'AM' theory test) then you will have to do that first.

At your age, you'll be able to get two (out of the four available) learner categories - the AM (50cc scooters) and A1 (bikes and scooters) up to 125cc (something like this)

What you have to do then is to take Initial Basic Training (IBT) for category A1 and AM which kind of validates your learner permit so you can ride unaccompanied.

Ideally then you would pass a driving test within two years (the IBT cert becomes invalid after two years and you need to repeat part of the training to refresh your IBT cert.

However, the big question is when will you be 18? As soon as you turn 18, you can go straight for the third category in the sequence which is A2 (medium power bikes). Then you could do is get an A2, A1 and AM learner permit, take A2 IBT training, pass the A2 test and then in two years you can go back to your instructor and take more training and get the big bike category - cat A without having to take an actual driving test.

Maybe you don't want to think about bikes bigger than scooters today but what you can do is buy your own scooter but get out the biggest permit you can and just borrow your instructor's bikes when taking IBT and driving tests.

sean2257

Wow, thanks for the response. I'll be 18 in June.
So after I do the IBT, I can drive unsupervised? Will I need to be insured?

cantdecide

The best thing to do is do your theory test, then apply for your permit, then take your permit to your instructor (who will provide you with a taxed and insured bike, gear etc for your training). Once you have completed IBT in your chosen category (ideally A2 after you turn 18), you could get your own bike and your own insurance and then you can ride unsupervised wearing an 'L' vest until you pass your test or until your IBT cert expires in 2 years...

sean2257

Thanks again for your help clarifying. One final question, is there a 6 month wait after I complete my IBT before taking my driving test? Like with a car?

cantdecide

Yes, there is a 6 month wait alright...