UK Motorcycle Theory Test Road Rules — Questions and Answers
Question 1: What is the national speed limit for a motorcycle on a single carriageway in the UK?
- 50 mph
- 60 mph (Correct answer)
- 70 mph
- There is no speed limit for motorcycles
Correct answer: 60 mph
The national speed limit for motorcycles on single carriageways is 60 mph — the same as for cars. On dual carriageways and motorways, the national speed limit for motorcycles is 70 mph.
Question 2: Is filtering (riding between lanes of slow-moving or stationary traffic) legal in the UK?
- No — it is always illegal
- Yes — filtering is legal provided it is done safely and at an appropriate speed (Correct answer)
- Only in London
- Only on motorways
Correct answer: Yes — filtering is legal provided it is done safely and at an appropriate speed
Filtering is legal in the UK and is one of the key advantages of motorcycle travel. However, it must be done safely, at an appropriate speed relative to the surrounding traffic, and with constant awareness of vehicles changing lanes or pedestrians crossing.
Question 3: What are the rules regarding motorcycle passengers in the UK?
- Passengers are not allowed on any motorcycle
- The motorcycle must have a proper pillion seat, footrests, and the rider must hold a full licence (not a provisional) (Correct answer)
- Anyone can carry a passenger on any motorcycle
- Passengers must be over 21
Correct answer: The motorcycle must have a proper pillion seat, footrests, and the rider must hold a full licence (not a provisional)
To carry a pillion passenger, the motorcycle must have a proper pillion seat and footrests designed for a passenger. The rider must hold a full motorcycle licence (provisional licence holders cannot carry passengers). The passenger must also wear an approved helmet.
Question 4: What is the legal requirement for using headlights on a motorcycle during the day?
- Headlights must be off during the day
- Motorcycles must use dipped headlights at all times (most modern bikes do this automatically) (Correct answer)
- Only sidelights are needed during the day
- Headlights are only required in tunnels
Correct answer: Motorcycles must use dipped headlights at all times (most modern bikes do this automatically)
While not strictly legally required during clear daylight in the UK, it is very strongly recommended and considered best practice to ride with dipped headlights on at all times. Most modern motorcycles have the headlight permanently wired to come on with the ignition.
Question 5: Can a motorcycle use a bus lane in the UK?
- Never — bus lanes are only for buses
- It depends on the local authority — check the signs as some bus lanes permit motorcycles and some do not (Correct answer)
- Always — motorcycles can use any bus lane
- Only electric motorcycles can use bus lanes
Correct answer: It depends on the local authority — check the signs as some bus lanes permit motorcycles and some do not
Motorcycle access to bus lanes varies by local authority. The signs at the start of the bus lane indicate which vehicles are permitted. Some councils allow motorcycles in bus lanes while others do not. Always check the signs before entering a bus lane.
Question 6: What is the minimum age to ride a motorcycle on UK roads?
- 14 years old
- 16 years old for a moped (up to 50cc), 17 for a motorcycle (Correct answer)
- 18 years old
- 21 years old
Correct answer: 16 years old for a moped (up to 50cc), 17 for a motorcycle
You can ride a moped (up to 50cc, max speed 45 km/h) from age 16 with a CBT certificate. From age 17, you can ride a motorcycle up to 125cc and 11kW on a provisional licence with CBT. Full licence requirements and higher categories have additional age requirements.
UK Motorcycle Theory Test Road Rules
What is the national speed limit for a motorcycle on a single carriageway in the UK?