DVSA ERS Enhanced Rider Scheme – Motorcycle Training
The DVSA Enhanced Rider Scheme (ERS) is a practical motorcycle training programme designed to help qualified motorcyclists improve their riding skills, confidence and road safety. Whether you have recently passed your motorcycle test, are returning to biking after a break, have upgraded to a larger or more powerful motorcycle, or simply want to improve your riding, the DVSA Enhanced Rider Scheme provides professional assessment and targeted training.
To take part, you must hold a full motorcycle licence. Your ERS course begins with an on-road assessment conducted by a DVSA Enhanced Rider Scheme trainer. The assessment normally takes around one to two hours and covers a variety of road and traffic conditions. If your riding already meets the required standard, you may receive your DVSA Certificate of Competence without further training. If areas for improvement are identified, your trainer will create a personalised training plan.
DVSA Enhanced Rider Scheme Core Modules
The ERS assessment and training programme covers seven core modules:
Structured planned approach to riding – Developing a systematic approach to observation, positioning, speed and planning so you can deal with hazards safely and confidently.
Defensive riding and hazard awareness – Improving forward observation, anticipation and awareness of other road users, changing road conditions and potential hazards.
Progress and use of speed – Learning to make safe, appropriate progress while choosing a speed suitable for the road, traffic, visibility and conditions.
Overtaking and filtering – Developing the judgement, observation and planning required to overtake and filter safely, appropriately and legally.
Bends and corners – Improving positioning, observation, planning, machine control and cornering techniques for safer and smoother riding.
Slow control – Building confidence and control when manoeuvring a motorcycle at low speeds.
Developing the correct rider attitude – Encouraging responsible decision-making, self-awareness and a positive approach to managing risk.
Optional DVSA ERS Modules
Once you have achieved the required standard in the core modules, additional optional ERS training modules can further develop specialist motorcycle skills. These include:
- Effective braking techniques
- Advanced filtering
- Motorways and dual carriageways
- Carrying a passenger or load
- Delivery and courier riding
- Riding abroad
- Blood biking
- Group riding
- Biker Down and incident scene management
- Motorcycle maintenance
- Safe use of mobile phones, GPS, sat nav and Bluetooth
- Training in alternative environments
Your trainer can recommend optional modules according to your experience, motorcycle and the type of riding you regularly undertake.
Benefits of DVSA Enhanced Rider Scheme training
Completing the DVSA ERS Enhanced Rider Scheme can make you a safer, smoother and more confident motorcyclist. Training can improve hazard awareness, cornering, overtaking, filtering, speed management and overall machine control while helping you identify and correct riding habits that may have developed over time.
Successful completion earns you a DVSA Certificate of Competence. The DVSA also states that this certificate can be used to obtain discounts from most motorcycle insurers, potentially helping to reduce the cost of motorcycle insurance.
Whether you are a new rider, an experienced motorcyclist looking to refresh your skills or returning to two wheels after several years, DVSA Enhanced Rider Scheme training is an excellent way to continue developing your riding and get more from every journey.
Compass Motorcycle Excellence offers DVSA ERS Enhanced Rider Scheme motorcycle rider training courses based from Colchester, Essex and Suffolk.
