The UK has three motorcycle licence categories: A1, A2, and full A. Your age and experience determine which you can take, and you can progress through them over time. Most adult beginners start with A2 (age 19+) or go straight to the full A licence via Direct Access Scheme (age 24+).

A1 Licence — Riders Aged 17+

The A1 licence allows you to ride motorcycles up to 125 cc with a maximum power of 11 kW (15 bhp). To qualify you must be 17 or older, hold a provisional licence, have completed CBT, and pass the theory test plus Module 1 and Module 2 tests on a 125 cc machine. The A1 is suitable for commuters and younger riders who want independence without waiting until 19.

A2 Licence — Riders Aged 19+

The A2 licence is the most popular starting point for adult riders. You must be at least 19 and pass your theory, Module 1, and Module 2 tests on an A2-compliant machine. A2 allows you to ride bikes up to 35 kW (47 bhp), restricted from a machine with no more than 70 kW before restriction. After holding your A2 licence for two years and reaching the age of 21, you can take a further test to upgrade to a full A licence.

Full A Licence — From Age 21 (Progressive) or 24 (Direct Access)

The full Category A licence allows you to ride any motorcycle with no restrictions. You can reach it two ways: Progressive Access (hold an A2 for at least two years and pass A-category Module 1 and Module 2 from age 21), or Direct Access Scheme (DAS) if you are 24 or older and train directly on a large bike. DAS is the fastest route for adult beginners who want a full licence immediately.

Licence Category Comparison

Licence	Minimum Age	Max Power	Route
A1	17	11 kW / 15 bhp	CBT + Theory + Mod 1 + Mod 2
A2	19	35 kW / 47 bhp	CBT + Theory + Mod 1 + Mod 2
A (Full)	21 (progressive) / 24 (DAS)	Unlimited	Progressive or Direct Access

How to Progress from A2 to Full A

Once you have held your A2 licence for at least two years and are 21 or older, you can take a further Module 1 and Module 2 test on a Category A bike. Pass both tests and your licence is automatically upgraded to full A — no further training required, although most riders benefit from a refresher session on the larger machine.

Which Licence Is Right for You?

If you are 24 or older and confident you want to ride larger bikes, Direct Access is the most time-efficient route. If you are 19–23, A2 gives you a proper licence with good bike choice. If you are 17 or want the lightest commitment, A1 is the entry point. Our instructors can advise on the best route at your first session.

Frequently Asked Questions

What age do I need to be to get a full motorcycle licence?

You can get a full A licence from age 21 via Progressive Access (after holding A2 for two years) or from age 24 via the Direct Access Scheme. There is no upper age limit.

What is the engine size limit on an A2 licence?

A2 allows bikes up to 35 kW (approximately 47 bhp). The bike must also have been produced at no more than 70 kW before restriction — so most heavily de-restricted bikes are excluded.

Can I go straight to a full licence without doing A1 or A2?

Yes. If you are 24 or older, you can take DAS training and go directly to a full A licence, skipping A1 and A2 entirely.

Do I need CBT before taking a licence test?

Yes. You must hold a valid CBT certificate to ride on a provisional licence during training. CBT is required before any on-road practice sessions.

What bikes can I ride on an A2 licence?

You can ride motorcycles with a maximum power of 35 kW (47 bhp), provided the power-to-weight ratio does not exceed 0.2 kW/kg and the bike was not over 70 kW before restriction. Many popular mid-size bikes are A2-compliant.

Ready to get your licence? Find out about our DAS course or start with CBT. Questions? Read our full FAQ or check your area.