Tips and Guides
Motorcycle Licence Types & Training Explained (UK Guide)
Whether you’re a complete beginner or ready to move up to a full licence, understanding the different types of motorcycle licences — and what training you need — is the first step toward getting on the road safely and legally.
1. CBT – Compulsory Basic Training (Not a Licence, but Mandatory)
-
Who it’s for: Complete beginners aged 16+
-
What it allows: Ride up to:
-
50cc (at 16)
-
125cc (at 17+)
-
Must display L plates and no passengers allowed
-
-
Training required: CBT course
-
Licence status: Not a full licence – CBT is valid for 2 years
👉 Start here if you’ve never ridden before.
2. AM Licence – Moped Licence (Age 16+)
-
Minimum age: 16
-
What you can ride: Mopeds up to 50cc (max speed 28mph)
-
Training required:
-
Pass CBT
-
Motorcycle Theory Test
-
Pass Module 1 and Module 2 practical tests (on a 50cc moped)
-
-
Licence result: Full moped licence – ride without L plates and carry a passenger
✅ Ideal for younger riders starting early.
3. A1 Licence – Light Motorcycle Licence (Age 17+)
-
Minimum age: 17
-
What you can ride: Motorcycles up to 125cc and 11kW (14.6bhp)
-
Training required:
-
CBT
-
Motorcycle Theory Test
-
Module 1 and 2 practical tests (on a 125cc bike)
-
-
Licence result: Ride a 125cc bike without L plates, carry passengers, and ride on motorways
✅ Great for those who want a licence but aren’t ready for larger bikes yet.
4. A2 Licence – Restricted Licence (Age 19+)
-
Minimum age: 19
-
What you can ride: Motorcycles up to 35kW (47bhp)
-
Power-to-weight ratio not more than 0.2kW/kg
-
You can restrict a larger bike to fit the limit
-
-
Training required:
-
CBT
-
Motorcycle Theory Test
-
Module 1 and 2 tests (on am A2 appropriate bike)
-
-
Licence result: Full A2 licence – ride without L plates, carry passengers, ride on motorways
✅ Perfect for progressing riders who want more power.
5. Category A Licence – Full, Unrestricted Licence (Age 24+ or 21+ via progressive access)
-
Minimum age:
-
24+ (Direct Access Route)
-
21+ (Progressive Access) – only if you’ve held an A2 licence for 2 years
-
-
What you can ride: Any size motorcycle, any power
-
Training required (Direct Access):
-
CBT
-
Motorcycle Theory Test
-
Module 1 and 2 tests (on an appropriate motorcycle)
-
-
Training required (Progressive Access):
-
No theory test if already passed
-
Must retake both modules on a bigger bike after 2 years of A2
-
✅ This is the top-level licence with no restrictions – perfect for experienced riders.
Contact Us
ride53 - Simply Expert Motorcycle Training based Bristol at the Saracens Centre, Memorial Ground, Bakewell, Station Rd, Bristol BS10 7TT
©2024 ride53 All rights reserved
