Big problem with my license

[volvod5_dude]

I passed my test back in the 60's when I was 16 and haven't had a bike since the early 80's. Decided to take it up again and just recently bought myself a Yamaha 650a Dragstar Classic, which as it turns out I cannot ride legally.

Problem is over the years my motor bike entitlement has disappeared from my license. I rang the DVLA and all they could tell me that since 1975 when my license changed from a little red book to a pink piece of paper no entitlement for bikes is shown. Now they want ME to prove i passed my test as they haven't got record going back to the 60's. I'm a bit peeded off because if I can't I've got to stump up about £600 to do a direct access course. I was going to do some training to get me up to scratch but hadn't planned on doing another test and a CBT.

I've found out this has happened to a few other bikers locally. I know I should have checked but you just take it for granted that the DVLA would get things right. It means that for a good few years I was riding illegally, without realising, its good job I wasn't involved in an accident or my insurance would have been invalid.

[rsvnigel]

Why do you need to do a DAS course?

A bloke I know did something similar and just sat the test on his own bike (with L plates fitted).

[volvod5_dude]

Yeah, I suppose I could. I would need to do a CBT and a Theory test though before the main test. Also could I do my test on the 650 with L plates?

>> Edited by volvod5_dude on Saturday 14th August 15:07

[rsvnigel]

volvod5_dude said:

Yeah, I suppose I could. I would need to do a CBT and a Theory test though before the main test.

I'd suspect so, have you been to your local test center for advice or had a browse around the DSA website www.dsa.gov.uk/

volvod5_dude said:

Also could I do my test on the 650 with L plates?

Yep, as long as it chucks out more than 35kW (46.6bhp).

[volvod5_dude]

rsvnigel said:

volvod5_dude said: Yeah, I suppose I could. I would need to do a CBT and a Theory test though before the main test. I'd suspect so, have you been to your local test center for advice or had a browse around the DSA website www.dsa.gov.uk/ volvod5_dude said: Also could I do my test on the 650 with L plates? Yep, as long as it chucks out more than 35kW (46.6bhp).

I've just checked and the Yamaha 650 Drag Star is only rated at 29.4kW (40HP) @ 6,500rpm. Can I use it on L plates once I've done my CBT, to get some practice in?

[Pigeon]

Not unless you're accompanied by an instructor with a radio link. Otherwise it has to be a 125.

[Abnormal]

Sadly your not alone, there's countless stories around of people changing their license and getting it back with no bike entitlement, another government f*** up.

A note to all, photocopy your old one just in case.

[BliarOut]

A long shot, but have you had any dealings with insurers that require a copy of your licence?
If you know the date, maybe the local test centre can help? Dealers you have bought bikes off may have records?

Just clutching at straws really. I know I am going to take a photocopy of my old style one from now on.

Useless!

[volvod5_dude]

BliarOut said:

A long shot, but have you had any dealings with insurers that require a copy of your licence? If you know the date, maybe the local test centre can help? Dealers you have bought bikes off may have records? Just clutching at straws really. I know I am going to take a photocopy of my old style one from now on. Useless!

Thanks for the suggestions but.....

The local test centre at Evesham where I initially passed in 1968 has been closed for years and I can't find any proof of passing from old insurance certificates etc. The broker I used to use has retired so no help there. The dealer in Worcester I used never asked to see my license, back then or now so no joy there either.

The DVLA are taking the line that I must do another test, I'm a bit fed up to say the least. I'm really tempted to go for a burn up around the local lanes tonight just for the hell of it. It's their up not mine. Surely it's up to plod to prove I haven't passed I've got mates that will swear blind I did if it came to court.

Anyway I've booked a CBT for Thursday and I'll do me theory after that and see how I get on.

Cheers

VD5D.

[BliarOut]

Anyone know the legal position on swearing an oath with witnesses?

Surely, THEY have your proof.

Perhaps this is a story that [e-mail] would be interested in? More examples of incompetence and malice aimed at the law abiding citizen. I would want some action taking if it were me. Give them one last chance and then involve the media!

[Mon Ami Mate]

Dude,

Don't take offence at this, but after being away from biking for so long, you need as much training as you can get. If I were you I'd seriously consider going through the whole process again and then getting in touch with IAM or your local BIBs as well...

[volvod5_dude]

Mon Ami Mate said:

Dude, Don't take offence at this, but after being away from biking for so long, you need as much training as you can get. If I were you I'd seriously consider going through the whole process again and then getting in touch with IAM or your local BIBs as well...

You are right of course, and I was planning some training anyway - it's just annoying that the DVLA have lost my details and other peoples by the sound of it..