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There’s been a lot of noise recently about the government’s motorcycle training and licensing reform. Social media feeds are full of nonsense and speculation, worst‑case scenarios, and rumours about “massive changes” coming immediately.
I want to take a moment to clear the air with facts, reassure riders and future riders, and explain what’s actually happening and what is not. The new Roads Safety Strategy 2026 is out and there are some very big plans to reduce accidents on the road by 60% from now until 2035.
Let’s be clear. As of right now, the way you:
is unchanged.
Motorcycle training and testing continues as normal. There are no new rules in force now, and no new legislation has been introduced yet. It will come but it won’t be quick, there has been talk for many years and it has not happened yet.
The government has launched a consultation on possible reforms as part of the new Road Safety Strategy. But that consultation only gathers opinions and evidence for future policy design. It does not implement changes immediately, so don’t listen to keyboard warriors online thinking they already know what’s going on – They don’t and neither do we as the professionals.
The consultation is open until 31 March 2026, after which the government and DVSA will consider responses, analyse the views submitted by industry experts, and then work with key stakeholders (including riders, training providers, industry groups and insurers) to shape what comes next.
In other words: nothing has been decided yet and whatever does change will take time. Don’t hold your breath, you will be waiting a long time to see some of these changes that may happen.
The UK Government’s Road Safety Strategy, the first in over a decade, sets long‑term goals for reducing deaths and serious injuries on the roads. It’s a wide‑ranging plan considering everything from drink‑driving limits to enforcement and smarter infrastructure. Let’s be clear, this is for the roads of the UK for all vehicles, not just motorcycles, but we do count for a lot of KSI’s – 25% from just 1% of traffic.
It does recognise that motorcyclists are still disproportionately at risk: in recent years motorcyclists have consistently represented a significant share of fatalities and serious injuries compared with their proportion of overall traffic.
That’s why the consultation includes possible reforms to training, testing and licensing.
These are being explored to:
But all of this is at the exploration and consultation stage. Nothing is set in stone. The only changes riders will see is that of CBT in real terms because testing will stay the same and it may get a bit more expensive upgrading the progressive access route form on Licence Category to the next, as it may be done on training rather than testing.
Those who think they should wait to do their test, don’t hold your breath. These changes will have to take place by changing legislation. This is not a quick fix, if you are thinking of waiting so it’s cheaper, do it now as it may be more expensive.
A lot of the online panic comes from misunderstanding:
Reform takes time. Governments cannot legally implement sweeping changes overnight, especially in areas like driver and rider licensing where there are complex safety, legislative and employment considerations.
The consultation process is designed to get this right, not rush into arbitrary changes that damage rider access or safety.
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If you’re a new rider or thinking about training, go ahead and train as you planned. The current CBT, Mod 1, Mod 2, and full licence routes are still valid and will remain so for the foreseeable future.
In fact, the Government itself recognises the importance of keeping CBT in place while exploring other options to encourage progression beyond it. It may even be a longer process and cost more money, but to reach the ambitious targets in 2035, young inexperienced riders who undertake quick training may face stricter conditions.
Every rider we train is part of the broader story of UK motorcycle safety. Upgrading from CBT to a full licence is still the best way to build skills, confidence and road competence in the real world and nothing in the consultation changes that right now.
Personally, I’d like to see longer training plans to give thorough education. That would mean stopping conveyor belt training sessions and improving training standards. This is the reform that is being looked at in the training industry, largely old archaic training plans are used that need to be updated.
Consultation is about hearing from everyone. Your voice matters. If you have views on any of the proposals, now is the time to be heard, participate in the consultation if you can and feel strongly about it. But don’t panic based on internet and social media speculation.
This process is thoughtful, measured, and evidence‑based. It’s not a sudden overhaul, it’s a considered look at a system that hasn’t seen comprehensive review in decades.
Carry on with your training.
Book your assessments.
Progress your licence.
Keep riding responsibly and Keep it on the Black Stuff!
Training and testing as they stand are still valid, lawful, and enforceable. You’re safe to do what you planned.
When reforms eventually arrive, they will be designed to support riders, strengthen training quality, and, most importantly, help make UK roads safer for everyone, especially riders.
Let’s stay calm, stay informed, and stay engaged with the process, while enjoying the ride today.
By Simon Hayes
Founder, Motorcycle Riders Hub
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