What Happens on Your CBT Day: A Complete Walkthrough

If you have never been on a motorcycle or scooter before, the idea of your CBT day can feel a little overwhelming. You might be wondering what the day actually involves, how long it takes, whether you could fail, or whether you are even ready. These are completely normal feelings, and the good news is that your CBT is not a test. It is a structured training programme, and the whole point of it is to help you develop real skills in a calm, supported environment.

At LMRT, we deliver all of our CBT courses from our Grove Park training centre in SE12. Every rider who books with us comes to the same familiar site, works with the same professional team, and follows the same clear, step-by-step day. Here is exactly what to expect.

What Licence Do You Need to Turn Up With?

Before your CBT day, you will need a valid provisional driving licence. You can apply for one through the DVLA if you do not already have one. You do not need any prior riding experience and you do not need to have passed your theory test before completing your CBT. Just bring your provisional licence with you on the day.

What to Wear and Bring

You do not need to own full riding kit before your first lesson. However, you should arrive wearing sturdy clothing. Jeans, a jacket with some coverage, and solid ankle boots are a sensible starting point. Avoid trainers, open shoes, or anything that leaves your skin exposed.

If you have your own helmet, feel free to bring it along. If not, helmets are available at the centre. Bring your provisional licence, something to eat and drink for the day, and ideally dress for the weather, as part of the training takes place outside.

How Long Does the Day Take?

Your CBT is a full-day commitment. Most learners are with us from around 8:30 in the morning and finish in the mid to late afternoon, depending on how the day progresses. There are five elements to work through, and your instructor will move you through each one at a sensible pace.

The Five Elements of Your CBT

Element A: Introduction and Eyesight Check

The day begins indoors. Your instructor will introduce the session, go through some essential theory, and cover road safety and Highway Code awareness for two-wheeled riders. You will also carry out a simple eyesight check. This part of the day sets the foundation for everything that follows and gives you the chance to ask questions in a relaxed setting.

Element B: On-Site Machine Familiarisation

Next, you will be introduced to the motorcycle or scooter you will be using. Your instructor will walk you through the controls, the safety checks you need to carry out before riding, and how to handle the machine correctly when stationary. You will not be riding just yet. This is about getting comfortable with the bike before you put it in motion.

Element C: On-Site Riding

This is where the riding begins, safely within our off-road training area at Grove Park. You will practise moving off, stopping, steering, and manoeuvring at low speed. Your instructor will guide you through each exercise, building your skills gradually. There is no rush and no pressure. You move on when you and your instructor are both happy with how things are going.

Element D: On-Road Briefing

Before heading out onto public roads, your instructor will brief you on what to expect and how the on-road session will work. This is your opportunity to ask any final questions and make sure you feel prepared for riding in real traffic conditions.

Element E: The Two-Hour Road Ride

The final element is a minimum two-hour supervised ride on public roads. You will ride out from our Grove Park site with your instructor providing guidance and feedback throughout. This is where everything you have practised comes together. By the end of this stage, you will have demonstrated that you can ride safely and responsibly on the road.

It Is Training, Not a Test

It is worth saying again clearly. Your CBT is not a pass or fail examination. It is a training certificate, and your instructor is there to help you reach the required standard, not to catch you out. The vast majority of people who arrive at LMRT for their CBT leave with their certificate on the same day.

Ready to Book?

If you are based in South London and thinking about getting started, we would love to hear from you. You can find full details on our CBT course page, or take a look at our wider range of motorcycle training in South London if you are already thinking about what comes next. Whenever you are ready, the team at LMRT is here to help you get riding safely and confidently.