MCIA Welcomes Positive Discussions on Motorcycle Licensing Reform Following Meeting with Minister
The Motorcycle Industry Association (MCIA) met with Lilian Greenwood MP, Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Transport, and members of the Motorcycle Strategy Group (MSG) earlier this week to discuss the future of motorcycle licensing and the broader role of the industry in achieving the UK’s road safety, mobility and decarbonisation goals.
The Minister confirmed that the Department for Transport (DfT) is considering conducting a review of motorcycle licensing, as proposed by MCIA’s "A Licence to Net Zero" campaign. While a review is not yet confirmed, the Minister’s comments mark a significant step forward in aligning government policies with the goals of reducing emissions and improving accessibility to sustainable transport options.
The Minister acknowledged the motorcycle industry’s pivotal role in shaping the way forward, stating that industry’s contributions have been invaluable in helping the Government evaluate potential reforms. She and officials commended MCIA for its constructive approach and recent evidence-based proposals, which she described as vital to the decision-making process.
Balancing Road Safety with Decarbonisation Goals
The Minister emphasised that road safety remains a personal priority for her, noting that motorcycle casualty rates are still unacceptably high. However, she reassured attendees that any future licensing reform would not solely focus on road safety but would work in tandem with decarbonisation and mobility objectives. Road safety will not be in competition with decarbonisation goals; it will complement them.
Ensuring the Right Scope for the Review
While the Minister’s announcement signals progress, the scope of the potential review remains unclear. It is not yet certain whether it will encompass all L-Category vehicles or focus exclusively on motorcycles. As the voice of the industry, MCIA will actively engage with the DfT to influence the scope of the review and ensure the inclusion of its proposals from the "A Licence to Net Zero" campaign.
Tony Campbell, MCIA’s CEO, responded positively to the meeting:
“We are encouraged by the Minister’s recognition of the industry’s contributions and her commitment to aligning safety, decarbonisation, and mobility goals. “Furthermore, any review must consider the whole of the L-Category sector, not just motorcycles. We cannot let this be a missed opportunity - it is essential we get this right rather than opting for a quick fix.
MCIA has a detailed set of proposals spanning the entire L-Category sector, supported by strong evidence. This includes making access easier, less costly, and more accessible, while creating a regulatory landscape that allows manufacturers to innovate into, such as developing new vehicle categories and addressing emerging micromobility vehicles within the broader framework."
Setting out its position, the Department for Transport said:
“The government is considering plans to review existing requirements for motorcycle training, testing and licensing, and we want to take account of the long-standing plans in DFT and DVSA, and recent information/ proposals that we've had from the sector.”
Next Steps for the Motorcycle Strategy Group
The MSG will remain a key forum for collaboration between government and industry as discussions on licensing reform progress. MCIA will continue to advocate for an approach that reflects the broader role of motorcycles in modern mobility, championing their potential to reduce congestion, lower emissions, and promote sustainable transportation.
ENDS
Notes for Editors:
MCIA represents over 90% of the supply side of the industry; the manufacturers and importers of powered two wheelers (PTWs) and other PLVs (or L-Category vehicles), accessory and component suppliers and companies providing associated services. For more information about MCIA or to interview Tony Campbell, CEO, please call 07976 714094 or email s.waters@mcia.co.uk.
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Examples and definitions of the different L-Category Vehicles (L1 to L7) can be found here.