QuestionI passed my driving test way back in 1987/8 and have been told I can legally ride a moped (upto 50cc max) without L plates, or a CBT on my driving licence. Is this correct?
AnswerWhat is a moped?
A moped is a motorcycle that has the following features:
maximum design speed not exceeding 50 kilometres per hour (km/h) (about 31 miles per hour (mph)
an engine capacity no greater than 50 cc
it can be moved by pedals, if the moped was first used before 1 September 1977
Moped provisional licences
You can only hold a provisional moped licence if you are at least 16 years old. It entitles you to ride a moped on the road as a learner with L-plates (D-plates in Wales) but you must not carry a pillion passenger or go on a motorway.
Your provisional licence is only valid when you have the DL 196 certificate issued on completion of compulsory basic training (CBT) by an approved training body (ATB).
A CBT certificate obtained on a moped is also valid for motorcycles once the rider has reached the age of 17 years and has the necessary licence.
If you want to ride a moped on the road without displaying L-plates you must take and pass a theory and practical driving test.
If you have a car licence...
If you obtained your full car licence before 1 February 2001 you are automatically entitled to ride a moped without L-plates (D-plates in Wales).
If you obtained a full car licence after 1 February 2001 you must first complete a CBT course and obtain a DL 196 certificate to validate your entitlement
