New European motorcycle test Transport Committe Inquiry

1 August 2009

Terms of reference and call for evidence

In January 2009 the Driving Standards Agency (DSA) announced that the motorcycle test would be split into two parts: Module 1 contains the specified manoeuvres element of the test including exercises designed to assess the rider's ability to control their machine safely, including avoidance and emergency stop exercises; and Module 2 includes an eyesight test and at least 30 minutes of on-road riding, assessing the rider's ability to safely interact with other road users.

Concerns have been expressed that there are too few test centres and that some test candidates are now required to travel long distances to reach their nearest test centre. Concerns have also been raised about the safety of riders taking the off-road test, particularly the 'swerve and stop' test.

The Transport Committee will hold an inquiry into current motorcycle testing arrangements.

Interested parties wishing to submit evidence should do so by 22 Sep using the procedure outlined here.