Unlock the Full Power: Your Guide to the Direct Access Scheme (DAS)
If you’re tired of engine restrictions and L-plates, the Direct Access Scheme (DAS) is your ticket to the open road. DAS is the most direct path for riders to earn a Full Category A Motorcycle License, allowing you to ride any size or power of bike immediately upon passing.
What is direct access?
The Direct Access Scheme is a training and testing program regulated by the DVSA. It is designed specifically for:
- Riders aged 24 and over who want to jump straight to a full licence.
- Riders aged 21 and over who have already held an A2 restricted licence for at least two years (Progressive Access).
Unlike other licensing categories, DAS training and testing are conducted on “large” motorcycles—typically machines with an engine displacement of at least 600cc and a power output of at least 50kW.
The Road to Your Full License: How It Works
To earn your Category A license through DAS, the process is broken down into clear, manageable steps.
What do I need?
Before you start your “big bike” training, you must have:
- A valid UK Driving License with provisional motorcycle entitlement.
- A valid CBT (Compulsory Basic Training) certificate.
A passed Motorcycle Theory Test certificate.
Module 1:
Off-Road Manoeuvres
This module takes place at a dedicated DVSA manoeuvres area. It tests your technical control of the bike at both slow and high speeds. You will need to demonstrate:
• Slalom and Figure of 8
• Controlled, slow-speed riding
• The U-turn
• The Emergency Stop (minimum speed of 50 km/h / 31 mph)
• Hazard Avoidance / Swerve test (minimum speed of 50 km/h / 31 mph)
Module 2:
The road ride
Once you have your Module 1 pass certificate, you move on to the final stage. This is a 40-minute road assessment where an examiner follows you to observe your:
• General safety and authority on the road
• Road positioning and observation
• Hazard perception and reaction
• Ability to follow road signs (Independent Riding)
Ready to Start Your Journey?
Gaining your full Category A license is about more than just the bike—it’s about gaining the skill and confidence to ride safely in any environment. By choosing the Direct Access Scheme, you are investing in a higher level of training that prepares you for the weight and speed of modern motorcycles.
We arrange assessments so you can have a go on a larger bike, and we can advise on how many days we feel it would take to gain your full license.
Call us today on 01903 861 711