Motorcycle Compulsory Basic Training

If you are getting a bike driving license for the first time you must start by completing the Compulsory Basic Training (CBT), which means you need to complete three modules:

• Module 1: A theoretical exam at Bleak House: it's a session of about an hour where the instructor takes you through key important knowledge you will need when driving and then does a brief test of your knowledge. The exam is scored by one of the other learners in the room and it has a really low pass score, e.g. it is super easy (but it would not hurt to get some practice using our theory preparation tests)

• Module 2: A practical test on a closed circuit: the exam takes place on the top floor of the Devil's Tower Road car park, you just need to take your helmet, the instructors lend you a 125cc automatic bike and show you the basics. It would not hurt to have some practice on a 125cc scooter before doing module 2, which is basically driving around a small circuit with the instructor observing you. It is quite easy but try to get some practice on a closed circuit with a small bike, so you know the basics (get it off the stand, keep upright, turn, accelerate and brake, etc.)

• Module 3: A practical test on the road: this is very similar to the actual practical bike test, except that you use a 125cc automatic bike owned by the MoT and that the instructor provides indications as you are driving through. You usually drive from the MoT to the Trafalgar interchange and back, through Queensway. The instructor is just looking at your attitude and care while driving, your speed and how often you check the mirrors.

You can apply for modules 1 and 2 as soon as you are 16 and a half years old, but you need to be at least 17 years old for module 3.

You need to book (and pay!) each CBT module separately on the Gibraltar egov website and you cannot book a module unless you have completed the previous ones.

Once you complete the three modules you will get a certificate confirming you have passed your CBT which is valid for 15 months. There is no CBT if you are getting a car license.

Apply for a learner's license

A learner's license allows you to drive, under supervision, while you still do not have a full license. You must be at least 17 years old and resident in Gibraltar to apply for a learner's license.

If you are applying for a bike license you must have completed the CBT, if you are after a car license there is no such pre-requisite.

The fastest way to get a license is to walk into the MoT (with your ID card), fill in an application form, pay the fee and leave with a learner's license. The MoT can get quite busy, so try to go first thing in the morning or, if you are not into people or not in a rush, you can go the easy way and apply through the Gibraltar egov website; the MoT will post the learner's license to your home.

A bike learner's license is valid for 15 months and a car learner's license for 6 months - after that you will need to re-apply (and pay again!)