Motorcycles you can ride

Motorcyclist carrying out manouevres A learner motorcycle has an engine up to 125 cc and a power output not exceeding 11 kW/14.6 Bhp.

Full motorcycle licence

There are two types of full motorcycle licence:

a light motorcycle licence (A1), which restricts riders to any bike up to 125 cc and a power output of 11 kW/14.6 Bhp - the practical test must be taken on a bike of between 75 cc and 120 cc
a standard motorcycle licence (A) is obtained if the practical test is taken on a bike of over 120 cc but not more than 125 cc and capable of at least 100 km per hour - after passing the standard motorcycle practical test, you will be restricted for two years to riding a bike of up to 25 kW/33 Bhp and a power/weight ratio not exceeding 0.16 kW/kg; after this you may ride any size of bike

Note: the BMW C1 motorcycle is not a suitable machine for a practical test.

Sidecars

Learners who wish to ride with a sidecar can practice on a combination with a power/weight ratio not exceeding 0.16 kW/kg. On obtaining a standard licence, you will be restricted to a combination with the same power/weight ratio for two years.

Changes to driving licence rules from 19 January 2013

New driving licence rules for moped, motorcycle and tricycle riders come into force on 19 January 2013. The new rules will affect you if you pass your test after this date, or you apply to renew or replace your driving licence. Find out more about these changes and how they could affect you.