Sixteen is the youngest age you can ride a powered two-wheeler on UK roads. For many young people a moped means independence: getting to college, a first job or friends without relying on lifts or buses.
What you can ride
After a CBT at 16 you can ride a moped. That means a bike or scooter:
- up to 50cc (or the electric equivalent)
- with a maximum design speed of 28mph (45km/h)
You must display L plates, you can't carry a passenger and you can't ride on motorways.
What you need first
- A provisional driving licence. You can apply from 15 years and 9 months. See how to get a provisional licence.
- A CBT certificate.
- Insurance, road tax and an MOT (once the moped is over three years old) for the moped you ride.
The CBT is the same course
The CBT at 16 covers the same five parts as it does for older riders. You do it on a moped or automatic scooter, and you still spend at least two hours riding on the road with your instructor.
Moving up at 17
At 17 you can ride a motorcycle or scooter up to 125cc on your CBT. If your CBT is still valid, you don't need to redo it just because you've turned 17.
To ride without L plates, carry passengers or use motorways, you'll need a full licence. From 16 that's the AM moped test. From 17 it's the A1 motorcycle licence. Our guide to A1, A2 and A licences explains the routes.
For parents
Parents often ask whether young riders are ready for the road. The CBT is designed to answer that. The certificate is only given once the instructor is satisfied the rider can ride safely on their own. If you'd like to talk it through before booking, call us on 01708 986100.