Under 24? Please Read
The third European directive on the driving licence comes into force shortly. One of the main points is a change to the age limits before various licences can be taken. The main one for you is that Direct Access will move from 21 to 24.
So start motorcycling now before the bureaucrats stop you!
What is DAS?
If you are 21 or over you can take a Direct Access test also known as DAS this will allow you to by pass the two year restriction. This test must be taken on a bike with at least 46.6bhp usually a 500cc bike. A DAS pass will allow you to ride any bike with no power restrictions.
This course is available to anyone over the age of 21.
The test is taken on a 500 cc manual machine.
You must hold a current UK driving licence.
You must hold a current CBT certificate (DL196).
You must pass a theory test before you can take the practical test.
Module 1
This is called the specified manoeuvres test, and is conducted on an off road site and involves element you will have done on your CBT. Throughout this test you are expected to use full and affective observations.
You will be required to:-
1. Take the bike on and off the stand, under full control.
2. Wheel the bike around in a semi-circle backwards, under full control.
3. Then ride forwards through slalom of 5 cones.
4. Then straight into a figure of eight.
5. You will then move to the start point where you will then ride forward and around a circuit marked out by cones at 30km/h or 19 mph.
6. You will then accelerate up to 50 km/h or 32 mph and pass through timing lights which record your speed before doing the avoidance test, (you must be doing 50 km/h as you pass the timing lights or it will be deemed a failed attempt. You are allowed 2 attempts as long as you haven’t hit the cones on your first attempt).
7. This then leads in to a controlled stop, (stopping with the front wheel in a box of 4 cones).
8. The next thing you will encounter is the U-turn, (which is conducted between 2 painted lines 7.5 metres apart).
9. You will then ride the bike forward in slow control mode between 2 sets of cones.
10. You will then move back over to the start point and ride the circuit a second time and pass the timing lights at 50 km/h, then conduct an emergency stop manoeuvre.
Module 1 is expected to take approximately 20 minutes.
Having passed module 1 the pass will be tagged to your theory test and is valid for the life of your theory test certificate. You then are eligible to take module 2.
Module 2
This is an on road riding test which must last at least 30 minutes. At the start you will be given an eyesight check and will be asked safety questions. The test will include a hill start and an angled start, but does not include the U-turn and controlled stop.
Having pass module 2 you get your full category A licence straight away.
More information on the 2009 Motorcycle Test