A guide to the classifications and restrictions and machines you need to 'learn' on to meet the required standard. Note: no scooter with the exception of the Burgman 650 and GP800's meet the minimum power requirement to do direct access with, and unless you can find a training school with one as a loaner (not likely) if you do not want to wait 2 years for the 33hp restriction to elapse, a 500cc geared bike for the test is the only way to proceed even if you never intend to ride anything other than autos.

Moped Licence
If you’re 16 or over, apply for a provisional licence, take your CBT and you’re road legal with a pair of L-plates. If you want a full moped licence without L plates, you need to pass a Motorcycle Theory Test and successfully complete a practical test on a moped.
If you’re 17 or over, with a full car licence obtained before Feb 1, 2001, you’re already qualified to ride a moped with pillion, No L plates required. Only recently passed your car test since Feb 2001 then you need to take your CBT training course, this lasts for the duration of your licence.
A1 licence
You’ll need to be 17 or over, have completed the CBT and passed the theory test. You then take the practical on a on a bike between 75 and 125cc and, if you pass, you are entitled to ride any machine up to an engine size of 125cc or power output of 11kw.
A licence (restricted)
If you don’t want to jump straight on a big bike, or are aged between 17 and 21, this could be for you. With CBT and theory out of the way, you complete training and take your test on a learner bike – engine size between 120 and 125cc, capable of more than 100 kph (62mph), and with a power output no greater than 14.6bhp. If you pass, you’re entitled to ride any bike up to a 33bhp limit. You can also carry a pillion and use the motorway. Two years after the test date, the restriction is automatically lifted and you’re able to ride what you want.
Direct access
Direct access was introduced to teach riders over 21 how to handle bigger machines. The route to the licence is the same as the restricted course but, mid-way through the training, you switch from a 125cc to a bigger bike with a power output of more than 47bhp. Passing the practical examination on a bike of this capacity allows you to legally ride a bike of any size without L-plates, take a pillion and use motorways.
Accelerated access
If you’ve got a restricted licence, but can’t wait two years for the 33bhp limit to lift, you can take a course on the larger machine and, with a test pass, legally side-step the system.

YOUR ROUTE TO THE ROAD
Compulsory Basic Training (CBT)
The first step to riding on the road. It costs £70-£100 depending on where you choose to go, and most centres throw in bike hire and equipment for your money. The training should last most of the day, and it'll be a mixture of classroom theory and on- and off-road practical tuition.
Most of the course is conducted off the road to help you get used to the machine and learn basic riding skills.Your CBT should be an enjoyable day providing you with the skill and confidence for safe scootering.
Theory Test
If you're booking all your training through one company, they may be able to book this for you. If not, check the Driving Standards Agency website for details of your nearest test centre or call the DSA on 0870 010 1372 between 8am and 6pm weekdays to book.
Practical Test
As with the theory exam, you can either book the practical test with the DSA directly, or through your instructor.
The test should last 40 minutes, during which you will be followed by the examiner in either a car or on a motorcycle. He will be in constant radio contact with you, and will give clear directions on where to ride. Throughout the test you will be marked on motorcycle control and your reaction to day-to-day road conditions. In addition to this, the examiner will ask you to perform a turn in the road, emergency stop and most likely a hill start somewhere en route.
Direct access
Direct access was introduced recently to teach riders over 21 how to handle bigger machines. The route to the licence is the same as the restricted course but, mid-way through the training, you switch from a 125cc to a bigger bike with a power output of more than 47bhp. Passing the practical examination on a bike of this capacity allows you to legally ride a bike of any size without L-plates, take a pillion and use motorways.
And finally...
For the first two years after passing the test new rider's licences are restricted to just six penalty points instead of the usual 12. In other words, get caught speeding only twice, and you'll have to retake the exam to get your licence back.