Motorcycle License UK: A1, A2 & Full Motorcycle Licence Guide 2025

Getting on two wheels gives you freedom, but the licensing system is tiered by age and experience (A1, A2, A).

Compulsory Basic Training (CBT)

Before riding anything (moped or motorbike), you almost always need to complete a CBT course. It's a day of training, not a test. It validates your provisional licence for 2 years.

Licence Categories

• AM (Moped): Age 16+. 50cc max.
• A1 (Light Bike): Age 17+. 125cc max. Theory and practical tests required.
• A2 (Standard Bike): Age 19+. Restricted power.
• A (Unlimited): Age 24+ (Direct Access) or age 21+ if you've held A2 for 2 years (Progressive Access).

Protective Gear

Only a helmet is legally mandatory, but full protective gear (jacket, trousers, gloves, boots) is strongly advised and expected during your test.