Accelerating UK's Two-Wheel Transition to Net Zero: MCIA's Game-Changing Licensing Reforms

Britain's main two-wheel industry organization, the Motorcycle Industry Association (MCIA), is spearheading a comprehensive revamp of the test and licensing system, and they're reaching out to current riders for support.

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The proposed changes involve scrapping the current two-part 'Module 1/Module 2' test and introducing a novel 'CBT+' test. The reforms also aim to simplify progressions between classes and reduce the ages for A2 and A license Direct Access.

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This initiative, named "A Licence to Net Zero – Unleashing our Potential, Licence Reform Essential," urges existing motorcyclists to advocate for these changes. The MCIA believes that the post-Brexit landscape offers an opportunity for Parliament to streamline the current process, which is described as 'burdensome, intimidating, and expensive.'

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Specifically, the MCIA criticizes the existing system implemented under the EU's 3rd Driving Licence Directive in 2013, stating that its protracted CBT – Theory Test – Module 1 – Module 2 structure inadvertently favors Direct Access tests over gradual progression. This, they argue, leads to a cycle of CBT repeats on A1 bikes, creating what they term 'perpetual learners' rather than encouraging advancement to larger motorcycles.

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In its place, the campaign proposes a new, simplified, and hopefully more cost-effective process. Applicants would first take their Theory Test followed by CBT, making them AM/A1 road legal for a maximum of two years. Subsequently, a new 'CBT+' course would bring users closer to full license standards, also valid for two years. The final step would be a single test, replacing the current Mod 1 and Mod 2 scheme, conducted at an Approved Training body to qualify for a full license.

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Additional recommendations include lowering the minimum age for A2/A license Direct Access from 19 to 18 and 24 to 21 respectively. Tony Campbell, CEO of MCIA, emphasizes the need for a comprehensive review of L-Category licensing requirements. He commends the government's acknowledgment of the sector's role in decarbonizing transportation but stresses the importance of providing the tools to facilitate this transition. The overarching mission of the campaign is to simplify sector access, promote cost-effectiveness and accessibility, enhance road safety, and accelerate the UK's transition to net zero by 2050.

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