MOT and Legal
Motorcycle Licence Categories Explained: AM, A1, A2 and A
AM, A1, A2 or A? A plain guide to UK motorcycle licence categories, minimum ages and power limits, and what each one lets you ride.
Which bikes you can ride depends on your licence category, your age and how you passed. The rules can look confusing, but they follow a simple ladder. Here is how the categories work, based on the GOV.UK guidance.
The four categories
- AM (minimum age 16): mopeds with a top speed of 25 to 45 km/h, plus small three-wheelers (up to 50cc and below 4 kW) and light quadricycles.
- A1 (minimum age 17): light motorcycles up to 125cc, up to 11 kW and a power-to-weight ratio of no more than 0.1 kW per kg. It also covers motor tricycles up to 15 kW.
- A2 (minimum age 19): motorcycles up to 35 kW with a power-to-weight ratio of no more than 0.2 kW per kg. The bike must not be derived from a model with more than twice that power.
- A (minimum age 24, or 21 by progressive access): motorcycles of any size and power, with or without a sidecar, and motor tricycles over 15 kW.
Direct access or progressive access?
Direct access lets you go straight to a larger category by passing the theory and practical tests, once you are old enough. For category A that means 24 or over, and it requires CBT, theory and practical tests. For A2, direct access also requires theory and practical tests.
Progressive access builds up in stages. For A2, you hold an A1 licence for two years and take a further practical test. For category A, you hold an A2 licence for at least two years and then take a further practical test, from age 21.
Which route is better?
Direct access can be quicker if you are old enough, but you learn on a more powerful bike. Progressive access takes longer but lets you gain experience on lower-powered bikes first, which many riders prefer. A2 bikes are also widely available, so riding one for a couple of years is a popular route.
What about CBT?
Compulsory Basic Training (CBT) is a requirement for categories AM, A1 and direct-access A. It is a short course rather than a test. It is the first step for many new riders. See the GOV.UK page on CBT for what it covers and how long a certificate lasts.
Provisional licence
You can apply for a provisional licence without passing the theory or practical tests first. You must then meet the rules for the category you are learning on. L-plates and other restrictions apply while you hold a provisional licence, so check the current rules before you ride.
Why this matters when buying a bike
Power output is listed in kilowatts, and A2 bikes are limited by both power and weight. Two bikes with the same engine size can have very different power outputs. Always check a bike's power figure and licence category before you buy. If you are unsure, ask the DH Superbikes team.
Once you know your category, our buying checklist and test ride guide will help you choose well.
Insurance and licence category
Your licence category also affects your insurance. Insurers consider your licence, experience and the bike. Always tell your insurer the truth about your licence and the bike you ride.
Frequently asked questions
What is the youngest age to ride a motorcycle? You can ride a moped from 16 with an AM licence, and a light motorcycle from 17 with an A1 licence.
Can I ride a bigger bike with an A2 licence? Only if it meets the A2 limits, or has been restricted in line with the rules.
Do I need a new licence to move up? You need to pass the relevant test or meet the progressive access requirements.
Rules can change. Always check GOV.UK for the latest requirements.
