Skip to content Accesskeys Newsroom

Information for moped riders

The moped category definition changed on 19 January 2013.

Moped category definition

A moped (category AM) is now defined as having a maximum design speed over 25km/h (15.5mph) but not exceeding 45 km/h (28 mph); or a light quadricycle with an unladen weight not more than 350kg and up to 45km/h. It has an engine capacity no greater than 50 cubic centimetres (cc) and can be moved by pedals if it was first used before 1 September 1977.

Moped provisional licences

You can only hold a provisional moped licence if you are at least 16 years old. It entitles you to ride a moped on the road as a learner with L plates but you must not carry a pillion passenger or go on a motorway.

If you want to ride a moped on the road without displaying L-plates you must take and pass a theory and practical driving test.

If you obtained your full car licence before 21 February 2011 you are automatically entitled to ride a moped without L plates.

Full motorcycle licence

There are three types of full motorcycle licence

  • a small motorcycle licence (Category A1)
  • a medium motorcycle licence (Category A2)
  • a large motorcycle licence (Category A)

There will be two routes to obtain motorcycle entitlement:

  • Direct Access – you must meet the minimum age criteria for the motorcycle category, have a valid CBT certificate for the relevant category of test, a theory test certificate, and pass the relevant motorcycle tests
  • Progressive Access (also known as ‘staged access’) – you can obtain entitlement to category A2 from aged 19 years and category A from aged 21 years provided you have a minimum of two years' experience on the lower category motorcycle and pass the relevant motorcycle tests. The period of two years' experience will start from the date you receive full licence entitlement for the lower category.

Sidecars

You can only use a motorcycle with a sidecar for your test if you have a disability. Only candidates with certain disabilities can use a motorcycle and sidecar combination for the test. You will then be restricted to driving such combinations.

More useful links

Do it online