The price of the motorcycle theory test could be reduced by up to 25% later this year. Transport Minister Stephen Hammond has proposed a reduction in the price of the test from the current £31 to £25, effective from October. There would then be another reduction by October 2015, with the cost further lowered to £23, according to the plan.

The theory test is vital for ensuring that new bikers know the Highway Code and rules of the road. This move demonstrates the government’s commitment to keeping Britain’s roads among the safest in the world while providing affordable services, Hammond said.

The news was welcomed by the Motorcycle Industry Association (MCI), which is optimistic that the changes would make the test more affordable for anyone that wants to learn to ride a motorbike and would encourage more riders to take their theory test. The lower price is the first step towards helping more people progress to the theory test and then take their test after completing Compulsory Basic Training (CBT), thus improving their riding skills further, commented Karen Cole, safety and training director for the MCI.

CBT qualifies a rider to ride a motorcycle, scooter or moped up to 125cc for a period of two years, after which it must be renewed.

Last year the MCI urged riders intending to repeat their CBT to plan ahead and gain their A1 licence instead. This is a one-off cost that will never need to be renewed, the organisation pointed out. Other benefits include not having to ride with L plates and being able to take a passenger, the MCI said.