GETTING ON TWO WHEELS Motorcycle Theory Test

Thinking about getting on two wheels? This step-by-step guide will cover compulsory basic training, the motorcycle theory test, and module one and module two of the (full) motorcycle test.

Alright? My name’s Ross and I’m the new staff writer for Motor Cycle

Monthly. I’ve been riding a used 2007 Yamaha XT125 on a CBT for the past 18 months and have just passed my full motorcycle test – so I have a pretty good idea of just how daunting a looming test date can be. I wanted to try and break down the process, share some of my thoughts and experiences and hopefully ease some worries while I’m at it. In the last issue of Motor Cycle

Monthly we looked at Compulsory Basic Training, this time we’re looking at the Motorcycle Theory Test.

Motorcycle Theory Test

There are two parts to a motorcycle theory test – a straightforward (multiple choice) question and answer section, and a hazard perception test. With the right approach and preparation, you can easily pass your motorcycle theory test first time.

Multiple Choice Test

During this part of the test, you’ll be asked 50 randomly selected questions over 57 minutes, and you need to answer 43 out of 50 questions correctly to pass. The questions are mostly common sense, and there’s a decent amount you can do beforehand to prepare.

Firstly, I’d recommend that you check out the DVSA website, where you’ll find a couple of banks of practice questions to work through. There are also a few practice tests available elsewhere online; just tap ‘motorcycle theory test’ into any good search engine and you’ll be able to work through a range of material. More importantly, you should familiarise yourself with the Highway Code. You can get your hands on it in a variety of formats – including as an app, a book, or you can simply view it for free online.

Hazard Perception Test

The hazard perception test consists of 14 video clips, each about a minute long, showing real riding situations. You have to identify the hazards that appear on the screen as they pop up in front of you, and you’re scored on how quickly you identify the hazards. You can achieve a maximum of five points per hazard, and need to achieve 44 points out of a possible 75 to pass.

Admittedly, practicing for the hazard perception part of the test is a little more difficult than the multiple choice test – but it is possible. There are loads of websites offering free practice videos, and a few offering (slightly dated) practice tests. Again, a couple of clever searches in your favourite search engine should give you plenty to go at.

The DVSA does offer (slightly more official, and paid for) computer programmes and DVDs that will enable you to practice the proper test – and they often come bundled with a Highway Code too, so if you’re not on a budget, then I’d recommend opting for one of them. If you’ve already been out on the road regularly, either on two or four wheels, you should already be well equipped to spot a hazard – but no matter your level of experience, make sure you put in the practice.

To book your motorcycle theory test at a specialist centre near you, visit: www.dvsa.co.uk

With your CBT and Theory Test certificates in hand, you are technically half-way to getting your full motorcycle licence!