Free Enhanced Motorcyclist Rider Scheme

18 January 2023

Motorcyclists are invited to sign up to the DVSA free Enhanced Riders Scheme which aims to help improve riding skills and safety on Powys roads.

With funding from the Welsh Government, Powys County Council's Road Safety Unit provides the ERS course free of charge to any motorcyclist who lives in Powys or uses Powys' roads.

The Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) Enhanced Rider Scheme is suitable for full motorbike licence holders who would like to improve their riding skills, for those returning to riding after a break, riders who have just passed their test, people upgrading to a more powerful motorcycle, and/or those who want to check their riding standard.

The course consists of an online evening theory session and a half-day, on-road, practical weekend ride with a qualified trainer. There is no test, but riding skills are assessed, and appropriate training given. Participants who achieve all 'greens' on all modules receive a DVSA certificate of competence on completion of the course.

"Keeping Powys roads safe is paramount" says Cllr Jackie Charlton, Cabinet Member for a Greener Powys. "We appreciate that our large, expansive county, with its network of picturesque roads is a mecca for motorcyclists. Which is why we not only offer this course to all riders living in Powys, but also to all riders who use Powys' roads.

"Tourism plays an important role in the local economy in our beautiful and attractive county, and we welcome careful drivers and riders to enjoy our scenic roads, but we must all remember that road safety is vital.

"We are lucky to have an experienced team of road safety officers within Powys County Council who work on many schemes and projects, including offering these courses for motorcyclists wishing to improve their riding skills."

Course dates for Winter/Spring 2023:

Mid Powys:

Online theory: 9 February
On-road rides: 11 or 12 February

Online theory: 9 March
On-road rides: 11 or 12 March

Online theory: 13 April
On-road rides: 15 or 16 April

South Powys:

Online theory: 2 February
On-road rides: 4 or 5 February

Online theory: 2 March
On-road rides: 4 or 5 March

Online theory: 30 March
On-road rides: 1 or 2 April

Spaces for these free courses are limited and fill up quickly. Please get in touch to reserve your places as soon as possible: 01597 826924 or miranda.capecchi1@powys.gov.uk

Please see this video for more information on the DVSA Enhanced Rider Scheme: https://youtu.be/9OjLHO-ASmk