Module 1 Motorcycle Test

What’s involved in the Module 1 motorcycle test?

There are two modules in the practical motorcycle test and you’ll have to pass Module 1 before you can take Module 2

Mod 1 is an off-road test. Don’t be fooled into thinking off-road means that you ride a dirt bike and get muddy; it simply means you carry out the examination at a test centre and not on the public highway.

Even though you’re in a controlled test arena, you’ll ride as if you were on the public roads.

The Mod 1 test lasts for around 20-minutes and comprises an off-road riding module which tests riders on the following skills:

• Wheeling the moped or motorcycle and using the stand
• Riding a slalom and figure of 8
• A slow ride
• A U-turn
• Cornering and a controlled stop
• Cornering and an emergency stop (minimum speed of 19mph for mopeds and 31mph for motorcycles)
• Cornering and hazard avoidance (minimum speed of 19mph for mopeds and 31mph for motorcycles)

How do I book the Module 1 test?

You can book it through your local motorcycle training school or via this website: https://www.gov.uk/book-driving-test

How much does the Module 1 test cost?

First you’ll need a CBT. The costs vary depending on where you are in the country but expect to pay around £120.

Here’s the current official price list:

What do I need to wear on the day?

On the day of your test you must wear:

• A motorcycle helmet that meets British safety standards (unless you’re Sikh and wearing a turban)
• Motorcycle boots or other sturdy footwear that supports and protects your ankles
• Textile or leather motorcycle trousers or heavy denim trousers
• A textile or leather motorcycle jacket or a heavy denim jacket with several layers underneath
• Motorcycle gloves

If your examiner does not feel your protective clothing is suitable for the test it will be cancelled and you do not have the right to a refund.

What is the Module 1 pass mark?

Module 1 pass criteria

You’ll find out if you’ve passed module 1 at the end of the test. During the module your examiner will note:

• Dangerous faults – these involve actual danger to you, the examiner, the public or property
• Serious faults – these are potentially dangerous
• Riding faults – these aren’t potentially dangerous, but could become serious if you keep making the same mistake

You will fail module one if your examiner observes:

• One dangerous fault (a ‘major’)
• More than five riding faults (‘minors’)

Module 1 manoeuvring diagrams

Your test centre will provide you with manoeuvring diagrams, that make up part of your motorcycle practical test. These will feature diagrams of the different layouts of motorcycle manoeuvring areas on an off-road course, which will be used to demonstrate that you have good control of the vehicle.

Diagrams may include the off-road course that will test your knowledge of the following:

• Slalom
• Figure of eight
• Slow ride
• U-turn
• Cornering
• Controlled stop
• A 30 km/h / 19 mph circuit ride
• A 50 km/h / 32 mph emergency brake
• A 30 km/h / 19 mph circuit ride
• A 50 km/h / 32 mph avoidance

Module 1 Bike Test Tips

Common Module 1 Motorcycle Test Questions

Will my Module 1 certificate expire?
Your Mod 1 pass certificate will expire at the same time as your motorcycle theory test certificate expires. So even if you re-take your Theory Test, your Module 1 will still expire on the date your original theory test was set to expire.

Will they cancel the Mod 1 test if it rains?
In rare circumstances, the test will be cancelled due to poor weather. However if it is simply raining, windy, snowing or foggy, the chances are the test will carry on as usual. In gale-force winds, your course is likely to be rescheduled but if it’s raining, even heavily, then prepare to get wet!

Can I use my own bike?
Yes. You need to ensure your motorcycle is on the DVSA list of approved test bikes and your motorcycle must be insured. It is often far easier and cheaper to use your motorcycle training school’s bikes. They cost around £25 a day to hire and you’re covered if you drop it.

Is the practical test the same for every licence?
The practical test is the same for each category, the only difference is the size of the bike you complete the test on. The AM test has a lower speed requirement but follows the same format.

• Category A1 riders must carry out the test on a 120 to 125cc motorcycle capable of 55mph or above that produces up to 11kW of engine power
• Category A2 riders must carry out the test on a minimum of a 395cc motorcycle with a power output of between 25 kW (33bhp) and 35 kW (47bhp)
• Category A riders must carry out the test on a motorcycle that produces at least 54bhp or 40kw and is over 595cc