Motorcycle Licences
Which licence is needed for your Yamaha motorcycle or scooter?
From 2013 there are three categories of motorcycle licence, which are A1, A2, and A, as well as the AM licence category for scooter. Several age limits apply to the three new motorcycle licence categories, and there is a time limit for how long these licences will run before the rider must either pass the relevant test, or re-apply for the licence.
These new rules require all riders to progress through this system and spend at least two years in the 'A2' and 'A1' categories before you can obtain an unlimited 'A' licence (Some countries operate a 'Direct Access' route that permits riders with a minimum age of 24 years to bypass the 'A1' and 'A2' licences, and apply directly for their 'A' licence).
AM Licence
Scooters
Category AM driving licenses are issued to applicants who pass a theory test and who meet medical standards. (In certain countries it is also necessary to pass a skills test and behaviour test. The minimum age for an AM licence varies within the EU).
'AM' Licence summary
* Scooters and mopeds up to 50cc
* Maximum design speed not exceeding 45 km/h
* Minimum age varies within the EU
A1 Licence
Category A1 driving licenses are issued to applicants who pass a skills test and a behaviour and theory test and who meet medical standards. (The minimum age for an A1 licence varies within the EU).
'A1' Licence summary
* Motorcycles not exceeding 125cc
* Max power 11kW
* Max power to weight ratio of 0.1 kW/kg
* Minimum age varies within the EU
The A1 licence WILL NOT automatically convert into an A2 licence after two years. You will be required to apply for a Category A2 licence.
A2 Licence
Category A2 driving licences are issued to applicants who have already acquired a minimum of 2 years’ experience on a motorcycle in category A1. (The minimum age for an A2 licence varies within the EU).
When you upgrade from an A1 licence to an A2 licence you WILL NOT be required to re-take another skills test and behaviour and theory test.
'A2' Licence summary
* Motorcycles not exceeding 35kW
* Minimum 2 years' experience as an A1 licence holder
* Power to weight not exceeding 0.2 kW/kg
* Not derived from a vehicle of more than double its power
* Minimum age varies within the EU
The A2 licence WILL NOT automatically convert into a Category A licence after two years. You will be required to apply for a Category A licence.
A Licence
Category A driving licences are issued to applicants who have already acquired a minimum of 2 years’ experience on a motorcycle in category A2. The minimum age for an A licence varies within the EU.
When you upgrade from an A2 licence to an A licence you WILL NOT be required to re-take another skills test and behaviour and theoretical test.
Please also note that riders with a minimum age of 24 years (varies within the EU) may be permitted to apply directly for an A licence subject to their own countries’ regulations. These 'Direct Access' riders WILL BE required to pass a skills test and behaviour and theory test.
'A' Licence summary
* Any motorcycle, no cc or power limit
* Minimum 2 years' experience as an A1 licence holder
* Minimum age varies within the EU
* OR minimum age 24 years for 'Direct Access'. (Varies within EU, please note that 'Direct Access' riders WILL BE required to pass a skills test and behaviour and theory test.)
