Is Your CBT on the Police Database?
- Updated July 12, 2023
We get asked repeatedly here at Moto Geek, particularly by newer riders, whether your CBT is kept on the Police Database.
The Police National Database (PND) is a computer system that stores a person’s conviction and caution history. The database is available to all UK police forces and select law enforcement agencies.
Is Your CBT Kept on the Police Database?
Your CBT is not kept on the police database, nor are any records of your training or licensing details.
Compulsory Basic Training is a paper-only certification managed solely by approved riding schools across the UK.
Can the Police Check Your CBT?
Upon completion of Compulsory Basic Training (CBT), the trainee must be given a certificate of completion, known formally as a DL196. This paper certificate is the only formal record of completing your CBT, so it’s crucial that you keep it safe.
So, if your CBT isn’t on the police database, and the only record is a physical certificate, how can the police possibly check?
Assuming you don’t have your certificate to hand, the police may issue you with an HO/RT1. An HO/RT1, or “producer”, requires the driver of a vehicle to produce the requested documents at a police station within seven days.
Do I Need to Carry My CBT Certificate?
You are not legally required to carry your CBT certificate with you, but we understand why you might be tempted.
However, carrying your certificate while riding puts you at risk of losing it, damaging it in poor weather, and so on.
We recommend either photocopying the original and carrying the copy or taking a high-quality photo with your phone, ensuring all the information is legible.
Can You Get Caught Without a CBT?
Riding without a valid CBT invalidates your insurance and puts you and other road users at risk.
If you’re unable to produce a valid CBT certificate, be it expired or non-existent, you run the risk of receiving penalty points and a hefty fine.
What Is the Penalty for Riding Without a Valid CBT Certificate?
The penalty for riding without a valid CBT is a fine of up to £1,000 and 6 points on your license.
While riding on a provisional license, you’re also required to display front and rear L plates (L or D plates in Wales). The penalty for riding without L plates is a fine of up to £100 and 3 points per missing plate.
What Is the Penalty for Riding With a Fake CBT Certificate?
Riding with a fake CBT certificate is driving otherwise than in accordance with a license. The penalty for this offence is 3-6 points and up to a £1,000 fine.
Knowingly using a fake CBT certificate with the intent to deceive also falls under Section 3 of the Forgery Act 1981, which could see a person found guilty facing up to 10 years in prison.
Final Thoughts
Although your CBT is not kept on the police database, the police can make you produce your certificate under Section 165 of the Road Traffic Act 1988.
Failing to produce a valid CBT certificate exposes you to a whole host of problems, including penalty points, a fine, and invalid insurance.
Make sure your CBT is up to date, and remember to keep the original copy of your certificate safe in case you are required to produce it.
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