Vehicle guidelines & requirements

The following documents are required for applying for a motorbike insurance.

The Registration Document (VRD)
This contains details of your motorcycle:

• Make and model
• Year of first registration
• Engine size and number

It also gives your name and address.

If you buy a new motorcycle the dealer will register it with the DVLA. A registration document will then be sent directly to you from the DVLA.

TIP: If you buy a second-hand one you'll receive the VRD from the seller. Fill in the "Change of ownership" section and send it to the DVLA at the address given on the document. You should do this immediately as it is an offence not to notify the DVLA.

Vehicle excise duty
Also known as the 'vehicle licence' or 'road tax'. You must display the 'tax disc' on the vehicle.

You can get the vehicle licence application form at any post office and most main post offices can accept your application.

The fee varies with engine size. The classes are:

• Up to 150cc
• 151-250cc
• Over 250cc

When you apply to renew your vehicle excise licence you must produce:

• A vehicle test certificate (MOT) if your motorcycle is three years old and over
• A valid certificate of insurance
• An excise licence renewal form

For older motorcycles
Motorcycles over 25 years old don't have to pay vehicle excise duty but should display a 'nil' disc.

The vehicle test certificate (MOT)
The MOT test applies to all motorcycles, mopeds and scooters over 3 years old. The test must be carried out every year at an appointed vehicle testing station.
The purpose of the test is to check that your motorcycle is roadworthy. When your machine passes the test you'll be given a vehicle test certificate which you'll need to produce when you renew your vehicle excise licence.

If your motorcycle fails the test you must not ride it on the road unless you're taking it to have the faults corrected or unless you're taking it for an arranged retest.