Motorcycle Theory Test Cost: £23 in 2026
The motorcycle theory test costs exactly the same as the car test. Same format, same fee, different questions. Here is everything you need to know.
Same Fee, Different Questions
The motorcycle theory test costs £23, which is the same fee as the car theory test. The format is identical: 50 multiple choice questions (pass mark 43/50) followed by 14 hazard perception clips (pass mark 44/75). Both parts are taken in one sitting.
The difference is in the content. Motorcycle theory questions cover topics specific to riding rather than driving. The hazard perception clips are filmed from a car driver's perspective, so they are the same clips used in the car test.
How Motorcycle Theory Differs From Car
While the format is the same, the multiple choice questions are drawn from a motorcycle-specific question bank. Topics unique to the motorcycle theory test include:
Filtering and positioning
Safe filtering through traffic, road positioning for visibility, and dealing with blind spots at junctions.
Protective equipment
Legal requirements for helmets, visor standards, and the benefits of protective clothing including armour, gloves and boots.
Stability and balance
Countersteering, carrying passengers and loads, riding in crosswinds, and dealing with road surfaces like gravel and diesel spills.
Motorcycle-specific rules
Learner rider restrictions (no motorways, no passengers), CBT requirements, and the progressive access licence routes.
Braking systems
Independent front and rear braking, combined braking systems (CBS), ABS on motorcycles, and emergency stops.
Visibility and conspicuity
Using headlights, wearing high-visibility clothing, positioning to be seen, and the dangers of being in a driver's blind spot.
After the Theory: Practical Test Costs
Passing the motorcycle theory test is just the first step. The practical motorcycle test has two separate modules, each with its own fee.
| Stage | Cost |
|---|---|
| CBT (Compulsory Basic Training) | £130 - £180 |
| Theory test | £23 |
| Module 1 (off-road) | £15.50 |
| Module 2 (on-road) | £75 |
| Total (test fees only) | £244 - £294 |
Most riders also pay for professional training (£500 to £1,500 depending on experience and licence category). Add the provisional licence (£34) and the realistic total ranges from £750 to £1,800.
Study Resources for Motorcycle Theory
The official DVSA motorcycle theory test app (£4.99) contains the full question bank and mock tests. Free alternatives include the Highway Code at gov.uk and Theory Test Pro through your local library. Focus your revision on motorcycle-specific topics, but do not neglect the general road safety questions that appear in both the car and motorcycle tests.
Motorcycle Theory Test FAQ
Is the motorcycle theory test harder than the car test?
The motorcycle theory test has a higher pass rate (68% compared to 49% for car), which suggests it is not harder. The format is identical. The questions are different but the difficulty level is similar. Fewer people take the motorcycle test, and many already hold a car licence, which may explain the higher pass rate.
Can I use my car theory pass for a motorcycle?
No. The car theory test pass does not transfer to a motorcycle licence. You must take and pass the motorcycle-specific theory test separately, even if you already hold a full car licence. The two tests have different question banks.
How long is the motorcycle theory certificate valid?
Your motorcycle theory test certificate is valid for 2 years from the date you pass. You must complete both Module 1 (off-road) and Module 2 (on-road) practical tests within this window. If the certificate expires before you pass both modules, you retake the full theory test.
Do I need CBT before taking the motorcycle theory test?
No. You can take the motorcycle theory test without completing CBT first. However, you will need a valid CBT certificate before you can take the Module 1 practical test. Many riders choose to do CBT first so the practical skills are fresh while they revise for theory.
What is the total cost of getting a full motorcycle licence?
The minimum cost in test fees alone is around £280: provisional licence (£34), CBT (£130-180), theory test (£23), Module 1 (£15.50), and Module 2 (£75). Add professional training (£500-1,500) and the realistic total is £750 to £1,800 depending on your experience level and chosen route.
Ready to Book?
Book your motorcycle theory test directly at GOV.UK for £23.