Click the headings below to find out more.
Compulsory basic training (CBT).
Practical tests.
Theory tests.
Bike categories, ages and licence requirements.
| Licence category | Requirements for licence | Minimum age | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mopeds with speed range of 25 km/h to 45 km/h | AM | Compulsory basic training (CBT), theory test, practical test on all powered 2-wheeled moped | 16 |
| Small 3-wheelers (up to 50 cc and below 4 kW) | AM | CBT, theory test, practical test | 16 |
| Light quadricycles (weighing under 350 kg, top speed 45 km/h) | AM | CBT, theory test, practical test | 16 |
| Same as AM plus 2 or 3-wheeled mopeds with top speed of 25 km/h | Q | Granted with AM | 16 |
| Light motorcycle up to 11 kW (and a power-to-weight ratio not more than 0.1 kW per kg) and 125 cc | A1 | CBT, theory test, practical test | 17 |
| Motor tricycles with a power output not more than 15 kW | A1 | CBT, theory test, practical test | 17 |
| Standard motorcycle up to 35 kW (and a power-to-weight ratio not more than 0.2 kW per kg), bike must not be derived from vehicle more than twice its power | A2 | Direct access route (theory and practical) Progressive access route (2 years experience on A1 motorbike and a further practical test) | 19 |
| Unrestricted motorcycles in size/power, with or without a sidecar, and motor tricycles with power output over 15 kW | A | Direct access route (CBT, theory and practical (you must be at least 24)) Progressive access route (held an A2 licence for a minimum of 2 years – practical test (21 or over)) | 24 (direct) or 21 (progressive access) |
Article written by Nige.
Last update: March 2025
Nige commutes to work on one of his ‘trusty’ bikes in all weather, he has ridden all over the UK and most of Europe, he has had input from Em and Dan to try and help new riders understand more about bikes and riding..
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