What is Direct Access?
Direct Access is the route to an unrestricted category A licence — any size of bike, no power limit — without first holding a smaller category. It is open to riders aged 24 and over.
The tests are the same two modules everyone else takes. What makes it Direct Access is that you train and test on a large machine, so the licence you come out with carries no restriction.
Who is it for?
Riders 24 or over who want a full licence and have no reason to take a smaller category first. If that is you, there is no argument for the long way round — it is more tests, more fees and no earlier riding.
It suits complete beginners and returning riders equally. Schools usually assess where you are on the first morning and set the length of the course from that rather than selling a fixed block.
What to expect
Most schools run Direct Access as an intensive block, usually three to five consecutive days ending with the two test modules. A typical shape:
A day, and a prerequisite. Some schools bundle it into the course price and some do not — check.
Booked and passed before any practical test. Do this early; it is the step most likely to delay the block.
Off-road work getting used to the weight and power. For most riders this is the part that takes the time.
The manoeuvres on the pad, at the higher speeds a large bike makes harder.
Road riding, then the test with the examiner following.
Requirements and prerequisites
| Minimum age | 24 for Direct Access. 21 for progressive access after two years on an A2 licence. |
|---|---|
| CBT certificate | Valid and unexpired before any training on the road. |
| Theory test | Passed, and still inside its two-year validity when you sit Module 2. |
| Licence | A UK provisional or full driving licence with motorcycle entitlement. The photocard, on the day. |
| Kit | Full riding gear. Schools lend a helmet and usually a jacket; boots and gloves that fit are worth owning by this stage. |
What it costs
Direct Access is quoted as a block, and blocks are not comparable until you know what is in them. Check whether the price includes the CBT, the theory test, the DVSA test fees, and the bike on test day — schools differ on all four.
A course sold as a fixed number of days is a guess about you. One that assesses you first and then sets the length is more honest, and often cheaper in the end.