Supervising a learner
Discussion
Been doing a bit of searching on this, and I've found a couple of sites that suggest it is possible, but it would be great if someone learned could confirm...
My partner is a current CBT holder and is working towards completing her Direct Access. I'm a full bike licence holder with no restrictions since 2017 (also a qualified IAM Observer, not that it counts in the eyes of the law, but I do have a bit of coaching experience!).
Can she ride an e.g. 600cc bike on L-plates under my supervision (me following on another bike) with us both in radio contact?
This wouldn't be a replacement for any structured tuition with a school, just additional practice to build her confidence.
My partner is a current CBT holder and is working towards completing her Direct Access. I'm a full bike licence holder with no restrictions since 2017 (also a qualified IAM Observer, not that it counts in the eyes of the law, but I do have a bit of coaching experience!).
Can she ride an e.g. 600cc bike on L-plates under my supervision (me following on another bike) with us both in radio contact?
This wouldn't be a replacement for any structured tuition with a school, just additional practice to build her confidence.
I asked the internet for you....
No, your partner cannot legally ride a 600cc bike on L-plates under your supervision, even if you are an experienced and qualified rider with coaching experience. Here's why:
Legal Requirements:
1. CBT Restriction:
With a CBT certificate, a learner rider is limited to riding a motorcycle or scooter up to 125cc and 11kW (15bhp). Riding a larger bike, such as a 600cc, would breach this restriction.
2. Direct Access Training:
To legally ride a bike larger than 125cc while preparing for a full A2 or A licence, she must be under the supervision of a DVSA-approved motorcycle instructor as part of an approved training course. Private supervision by a full licence holder, even one with advanced riding qualifications, does not meet this requirement.
3. Insurance and Liability:
Any attempt to ride a larger bike without meeting legal requirements would likely invalidate her insurance, leaving her (and you) liable for legal and financial consequences if stopped or involved in an incident.
Alternative Options:
To give her additional practice while building confidence:
Hire a School Bike: Many schools allow students to book extra time with their bikes and equipment outside formal lessons.
Structured Practice Sessions: Some training schools offer flexible, confidence-building sessions with qualified instructors.
Post-Test Coaching: Once she obtains her licence, you could use your IAM Observer experience to mentor her further.
Unfortunately, until she passes her test, she's limited to a 125cc bike unless supervised by a DVSA-qualified instructor.
No, your partner cannot legally ride a 600cc bike on L-plates under your supervision, even if you are an experienced and qualified rider with coaching experience. Here's why:
Legal Requirements:
1. CBT Restriction:
With a CBT certificate, a learner rider is limited to riding a motorcycle or scooter up to 125cc and 11kW (15bhp). Riding a larger bike, such as a 600cc, would breach this restriction.
2. Direct Access Training:
To legally ride a bike larger than 125cc while preparing for a full A2 or A licence, she must be under the supervision of a DVSA-approved motorcycle instructor as part of an approved training course. Private supervision by a full licence holder, even one with advanced riding qualifications, does not meet this requirement.
3. Insurance and Liability:
Any attempt to ride a larger bike without meeting legal requirements would likely invalidate her insurance, leaving her (and you) liable for legal and financial consequences if stopped or involved in an incident.
Alternative Options:
To give her additional practice while building confidence:
Hire a School Bike: Many schools allow students to book extra time with their bikes and equipment outside formal lessons.
Structured Practice Sessions: Some training schools offer flexible, confidence-building sessions with qualified instructors.
Post-Test Coaching: Once she obtains her licence, you could use your IAM Observer experience to mentor her further.
Unfortunately, until she passes her test, she's limited to a 125cc bike unless supervised by a DVSA-qualified instructor.
itcaptainslow said:
Cheers chaps. I did wonder, but stranger things have happened. Being fair, you can supervise a learner car driver on just a “normal” licence!
True, but car licences aren't stepped. Good luck to her on the big test, hopefully she will be fully qualified in time for Spring

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