DVSA sets out proposals to improve motorcycle training
30 Dec 2016 09:07 AM
The Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) has launched a consultation asking for views on proposals to improve motorcycle training.
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
- considering whether learner riders should need to either pass a theory test before they take a CBT 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 important 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
- 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.
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:
We’re delighted to see DVSA has launched this consultation.
We believe that the introduction of a new training course is positive and will encourage more riders to use the progressive licence route. We’re also supportive of the proposals to update the qualification arrangements for motorcycle instructors as these will help the training industry.
We’d urge anyone interested in motorcycle training to respond.