Category AM (moped) – minimum age 16
- two-wheeled vehicle with a maximum design speed of 45 km/h (28 mph)
- three- or four-wheeled vehicle with a maximum design speed over 25 km/h (15.5 mph), up to 50 cc and with a power output not exceeding 4 kW.
Category A1 – minimum age 17
- motorcycles up to 125 cc, with a power output not exceeding 11 kW
- tricycles with a power output not exceeding 15 kW.
Category A2 – minimum age 19
- motorcycles with a power output not exceeding 35 kW.
Category A
- any motorcycle (the minimum age you can obtain a category A licence is 21 under progressive access or 24 under direct access)
- tricycles with a power output over 15 kW (minimum age 21).
Progressive access is a process that allows a rider to take a higher-category practical test if they already have at least two years’ experience on a lower-category motorcycle. For example, if you have held a category A2 licence for a minimum of two years, you can take the category A practical test at age 21. There is no requirement to take another theory test.
If you want to learn to ride motorcycles larger than 125 cc and with a power output over 11 kW, you MUST meet the minimum age requirements, satisfactorily complete a CBT course and be accompanied by an approved instructor on another motorcycle in radio contact.
Law MV(DL)R regs 9 & 16(7), & RTA 1988 sect 97(3)
To obtain your full moped or motorcycle licence you MUST pass a motorcycle theory test and modules 1 and 2 practical tests on a two-wheeled motorcycle.
Law MV(DL)R reg 38
You MUST NOT carry a pillion passenger or pull a trailer until you have passed your test. Also see Rule 253 covering vehicles prohibited from motorways.
Law MV(DL)R reg 16