Vehicle documents, insurance and liability
What the exam tests
This domain tests the paperwork and liability side of riding: licence entitlement, registration, mandatory insurance, inspection and what to do after a collision. A motorcycle must be registered and covered by compulsory third-party liability insurance to be used on the road.
Core rules
- Carry or be able to produce a valid driving licence with the A2 entitlement. Riding outside the A2 power or power-to-weight limits can mean riding without valid entitlement and insurance cover.
- The motorcycle must be registered, display the correct number plate and have valid compulsory liability insurance. Third-party cover pays for injury or damage you cause to others, not for your own machine.
- Voluntary comprehensive insurance covers your own motorcycle, theft and sometimes helmet and clothing. Check excess, restrictions and whether a passenger is covered.
- Keep the registration certificate and insurance details accessible. The vehicle must pass periodic inspection when due and remain roadworthy.
- After a collision, stop, exchange name, address, registration and insurance details, and help injured people. Report to the police when required and notify your insurer promptly.
- Do not admit fault or agree to pay privately at the scene; liability is assessed later. Modifications and false information can invalidate cover.
Worked example
You lend your A2 motorcycle to a friend whose licence only covers a smaller category. Your friend is stopped. Because the friend is not entitled to ride the machine, the insurance position is at risk and you as owner may also face consequences. Before lending a bike, check the rider's licence category, the machine's A2 compliance and that your policy covers other riders.
Traps
Assuming a car licence covers a motorcycle; believing the bike is insured because the owner has a policy; letting a friend ride outside their entitlement; failing to report a collision; admitting fault at the scene; ignoring an expired inspection or registration.