The NABD Guide to Riding Trikes with a ‘Code 78’ Licence Restriction

Introduction:

This guide provides a comprehensive overview of how the UK and European licence Code 78 restriction (restricted to vehicles with automatic transmission) affects your entitlement to ride trikes.  It covers Category A (motorcycle) and Category B (car) licences and addresses common questions about the use of dual clutch transmissions, e-clutches, and electric motorcycles in driving tests while clarifying the legality of using electronic gear changers by riders who are restricted to using automatic transmissions.

Licence Entitlements:

Category B (Car):

Individuals holding a Category B (car) driving licence may be entitled to ride trikes, subject to specific conditions based on the date the licence was obtained:

• Licences issued before 19 January 2013:
  Holders are permitted to ride trikes without any restrictions.
• Licences issued on or after 19 January 2013:
  Entitlement to ride trikes is limited to individuals aged 21 or over.  This entitlement applies exclusively within UK territories.

Category A (Motorcycle)

Holders of a Category A (motorcycle) licence are generally entitled to ride trikes.  However, the scope of this entitlement depends on the type of motorcycle and transmission used during the practical test:

• Unrestricted Category A Licence:
  If you obtain your Category A licence by passing the practical test on a motorcycle with a manual transmission, you are granted full entitlement to ride both manual and automatic motorcycles and trikes without restriction.
• Category A Licence with Code 78 Restriction:
  If you complete your practical test on a motorcycle with an automatic transmission, your Category A licence will display a Code 78 restriction.  This restriction limits you to riding only motorcycles and trikes with automatic transmissions.

Unconventional Transmissions:

• Dual Clutch Transmission (DCT) Motorcycles:
  If you use a motorcycle equipped with a Dual Clutch Transmission (DCT) in automatic or semi-automatic mode for your test, the Code 78 restriction will apply, limiting you to riding only motorcycles and trikes with automatic transmissions.
  To obtain an unrestricted Category A licence, you must complete the test using the DCT in manual mode for the duration of the test.
• E-Clutch Motorcycles:
  If you use a motorcycle with an active e-clutch during your test, the Code 78 restriction will be applied and you will be limited to riding only motorcycles and trikes with automatic transmissions.
  To obtain an unrestricted Category A licence, ensure the e-clutch is switched off for the duration of the test.
• Electric Motorcycles:
  Passing the test on an electric motorcycle with a single-speed transmission will result in a Code 78 restriction, limiting you to riding only motorcycles and trikes with automatic transmissions.
  For an unrestricted Category A licence, you must pass the test using an electric motorcycle with a multi-speed transmission.
• Declaration:
  It is essential to explain and confirm the selected transmission mode with the examiner prior to the test to ensure you gain the correct licence entitlement.

Electronic Gear Changers and Code 78 Restriction:

This issue was the cause of intense debate for many years until the NABD managed to get an official definitive decision on the matter from the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA).

The following statement was issued to the NABD by the Drivers Medical Group of the DVLA on 31/10/2011.

• “Electronic and paddle-shift gear change systems are still considered Automatics for driving licence purposes despite having other means to vary the gear ratio.”

This statement confirmed the fact that, a trike fitted with an electronic gear change system, such as the Kliktronic Gear Changer, can be legally ridden by a person who has a Code 78 restriction on a Category A or Category B licence.

Hopefully this brief guide will serve to dispel some of the urban myths about what you can or cannot ride when you have a Code 78 restriction on your licence.

Rick Hulse
NABD Chairman