GUIDE · HOUNSLOW & WEST LONDON
How to get your CBT in Hounslow
A plain-English guide to Compulsory Basic Training in West London — what it is, where to take it near Hounslow (TW3), what to bring on the day, and how to jump straight onto a 125cc Honda scooter afterwards.
What is a CBT?
CBT stands for Compulsory Basic Training. It's a one-day riding course run by DVSA-approved training bodies. Once you complete it you receive a DL196 certificate, which lets you ride a moped (up to 50cc) at 16, or a 125cc scooter or motorbike at 17+, on L-plates on public roads.
It isn't a pass/fail test — you keep going until the instructor is satisfied you can ride safely. Most riders complete it in a single day.
The five CBT elements
- A · Introduction — eyesight check, aims of CBT, kit and clothing.
- B · On-site training — controls, wheeling the bike, starting and stopping.
- C · On-site riding — slow control, figure-of-eight, emergency stop, U-turn.
- D · On-road briefing — Highway Code, road positioning, hazard awareness.
- E · On-road riding — at least 2 hours out on Hounslow & West London roads with your instructor.
CBT test centres near Hounslow
We don't run CBT courses ourselves, but there are several DVSA-approved schools within a short ride of TW3. Popular options include training bodies based in Heston, Feltham, Southall, Isleworth, Twickenham and around the Great West Road (A4) corridor. Search the official DVSA register at gov.uk/find-motorcycle-training using postcode TW3 1RS for the current list.
Book at least 1–2 weeks in advance — Saturday slots go quickly, especially in spring and summer.
What to bring on the day
- UK provisional or full driving licence (photocard).
- Licence check code (from gov.uk) if you passed your car test after 1997.
- Sturdy boots or shoes covering the ankle — no trainers or sandals.
- Jeans or trousers (no shorts), plus a warm layer even in summer.
- Waterproof jacket — London weather is unpredictable.
Most schools supply the bike, helmet, gloves and high-vis vest as part of the fee.
Cost, duration & validity
Typical cost
£130 – £180
West London CBT schools, 2026
Duration
1 day
Usually 8am – 4pm
Certificate valid
2 years
DL196
After you pass — rent a 125cc scooter in Hounslow
As soon as your CBT certificate is in hand, you can legally ride a 125cc scooter on L-plates. At Hounslow Motorcycles we rent Honda 125cc scooters from £60 per week, ready to go the same day.
- Honda PCX 125, SH 125, SH Mode 125, Vision 110.
- L-plates, top-box and basic maintenance included.
- Weekly billing — Monday to Sunday.
- Perfect for Deliveroo, Uber Eats, Just Eat and commuting.
Bring your CBT certificate (DL196), driving licence and proof of address, and you can ride away the same day.