We get a lot of enquiries about the law regarding Driving Licenses and Tests. Hopefully most of the questions will eventually be answered on this page. If you don't see the information you require, then please email us.

Q Where can I get special mirrors for taking a large solo motorcycle test and is there any special sizes that these mirrors need to be ?. The last time I took the large bike test and failed due to, in the words of the test examiner, that I could not look properly over both shoulders due to a neck disability and fail on signalling , but I should try the test again with large mirrors fitted, but up to now I cannot find any information as to suppliers of these type of mirrors. I live in Exmouth. Devon. I was told that if I passed a test with large mirrors I could only drive motorcycles with these type mirrors fitted.
A It is possible that the problem may be solved by better positioning of the mirrors, rather than using larger mirrors. It is difficult to advise you in detail as I don't know what sort of mirrors you are using at present.
It may be of advantage to get a set of bolt on mirrors which usually have a relatively long bar affording more adjustment of position than many of the standard fitted mirrors on bikes.
It would certainly be worth you asking in a few local motorcycle shops to see what range and style of mirrors are available.
If this option proves ineffective get in touch with us and we can look into getting something made to suit your needs.
Whatever the solution proves to be you will obviously have to ride with the same mirror set-up with which you pass your test. There would almost certainly be a restriction on your licence to that effect.

Q I have been told by my father and a few close friends that I can ride a trike (motorbike derived) on a provisional car(cat:B)/motorbike(cat:A) licence, as long as I display 'L' plates, on my own. Something about a motorcycle and sidecar outfit being able to ride a bigger bike without supervision??? 
The reason is I was also told I could drive a Reliant Robin (3 wheeler) on 'L' plates as it is classified as a motorcycle/sidecar outfit
Could you tell me if this is true, as I have tried talking to some people at the DVLA but it's like finding a fart in a hurricane (if you catch my drift)
A If you have a full car licence (category B) you can ride a trike without L plates. If you have a full bike licence (category A) which you have held since prior to 1999 you can ride a trike without L plates.
If you only have a provisional licence you must get the B1 category added to your provisional entitlement, before you can ride a trike on L plates.
These rules also apply to Reliant Robins.
As of 1999 only disabled people can take a test using a bike & sidecar combination.
If you wish more info you can contact the driving Standards Agency on 0115 901 2500.

Q Hi do you have any info for me. I did my C.B.T. and have been riding for a bit and want to get more practice and then take lessons and a test in April 2004. I use hearing aids and can not use radio gear. Anything you can advise me on please regarding if i can do a test that wont need radio gear and who may be willing to teach me in the Hertfordshire area? Any info would be much appreciated.
A Motorcycle test for hearing impaired riders.
This would be the same test as all riders have to take but it would be done with instruction being given prior to each section of the test, rather than the usual communication via intercom during the test.
I would imagine that any training school should be able to give you lessons in this way.
In fact you can tell your local training school that, if they will oblige in this way, we will put a piece in our Open house Magazine saying what damn nice people they are.
Should there be any doubts at your chosen test centre as to this procedure, you should refer them to Barry Morris at the Driving Standards Agency on 0115 901 2500 or contact us and we will sort it out for you.

Q Please can you advice me what the law is regarding bike riders who are partially and totally deaf, i.e: do insurers need to be notified and any special requirements for a motorcycle license, etc.
A You should notify your insurer of any disability, though this does not mean they can load your premium as they used to do, as this would be in contravention of the disability discrimination act.
As to taking a motorcycle test, this would be the same test as all riders have to take but it would be done with instruction being given prior to each section of the test, rather than the usual communication via intercom during the test.
Should there be any doubts at your chosen test centre as to this procedure, you should refer them to Barry Morris at the Driving Standards Agency on 0115 901 2500 or contact us and we will sort it out for you.