Ban L-plate motorcyclists from commercial deliveries, says London Assembly

Motorcyclists riding on provisional licences should be prohibited from working commercially in London, according to Thomas Turrell, a Conservative member of the London Assembly. He described riders operating under these conditions as a "menace to the road" and called for an end to their use in food delivery and similar services.

Concerns over basic training

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Motion calls for provisional licences to be prohibited for commercial moped and motorcycle deliveries.

Under current regulations, individuals can ride mopeds with a provisional licence after completing a one-day Compulsory Basic Training (CBT) course. This qualification is valid for two years and can be renewed indefinitely without the need to pass a full driving test. Mr Turrell stated that the CBT was designed for learning the roads, not for continuous professional use, and that it does not prepare riders for the demands of commercial delivery work. He highlighted instances of dangerous behaviour, such as "L plate motorbikes mounting the pavement," which he attributes to riders who believe their basic training is sufficient for road safety.

A motion passed by the London Assembly last month, proposed by Mr Turrell, urged the Government to ban the use of provisional licences for commercial activities. The same motion also called for a time limit to be placed on CBT certification, encouraging riders to obtain a full licence. Mr Turrell expressed hope that ministers would address this issue, noting that both he and the Mayor of London, Sir Sadiq Khan, share similar views on the matter.

Sir Sadiq Khan has previously stated his belief that the current CBT qualification is "not fit for purpose" and inadequate, particularly for those working as delivery drivers. He noted that Transport for London lacks the authority to mandate full licences for couriers, as these regulatory powers reside at a national level.

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Government review and industry support

The Department for Transport confirmed that it has consulted on reforms to moped and motorcycle training and testing. These proposed changes include the possibility of introducing a time limit on CBT certificates. The department is currently analysing responses to this consultation with the aim of enhancing safety and modernising motorcycling practices. Separately, an attempt earlier this year to amend the Crime and Policing Act to prohibit learner moped drivers from commercial activity was unsuccessful.

Mr Turrell suggested that major employers in the delivery sector, such as Just Eat and Deliveroo, might present resistance to stricter regulations. However, a spokesperson for Just Eat stated that the company supports stronger regulation and requires moped riders to hold a full licence. They also confirmed Just Eat's commitment to working with authorities and industry peers to improve road safety.