Choosing the right motorcycle licence route affects which scooter or sports bike you can ride, how you train and when you can upgrade. This guide explains the usual UK A1, A2 and full A licence limits, test stages and planning checks, so you can compare a bike with your entitlement before booking training or buying.
Overview
In Great Britain, motorcycle entitlement is built around your age, the tests you have passed and the motorcycle’s engine size and power. A provisional licence and Compulsory Basic Training (CBT) can allow learner riding in defined circumstances, but CBT is not the same as an A1, A2 or full motorcycle licence. Learner restrictions continue to apply until you pass the relevant theory and practical tests.
The three main motorcycle categories are:
| Route | Minimum age | Typical motorcycle limit | Usual test route |
|---|---|---|---|
| A1 | 17 | Up to 125cc, 11kW and 0.1kW/kg | CBT, motorcycle theory test, then Module 1 and Module 2 practical tests |
| A2 | 19 | Up to 35kW and 0.2kW/kg | Direct A2 test, or progressive access after holding A1 for the required period |
| Full A | 24 direct, or 21 through progressive access | No A2 power restriction, subject to the motorcycle’s specification | Direct full-A test or progressive-access test after the relevant A2 experience |
These figures are a planning summary, not a substitute for checking your exact entitlement. The power-to-weight ratio is important: a motorcycle may appear suitable because its power is below the headline limit, but still fail the A2 requirement if its permitted ratio is too high. For a restricted motorcycle, check the manufacturer’s documentation and the restriction paperwork rather than relying on an advert’s wording.
What can I ride on CBT?
CBT is commonly used by riders who want to begin on a moped or a 125cc scooter or motorcycle. A CBT learner normally rides with L plates, cannot carry a pillion passenger and cannot use motorways. CBT also has a time limit, so it must be renewed if you continue riding as a learner. The exact vehicle entitlement depends on your licence and the vehicle category, so check the conditions shown on your licence before riding.
A CBT does not give you unrestricted access to a 125cc sports bike, scooter or any larger motorcycle. If you want to remove learner restrictions or ride a larger class of bike, you need the relevant theory and practical tests.
Checklist by scenario
Scenario 1: You are aged 16 and want two-wheel transport
- Confirm that your provisional licence includes the appropriate motorcycle or moped entitlement.
- Book CBT with an approved training provider and ask what vehicle category you will be trained on.
- Choose a compliant moped or, once eligible by age, a suitable 125cc motorcycle or scooter.
- Budget for insurance, protective clothing, security and maintenance, not just the purchase price.
- Use the required learner markings and follow the conditions attached to your entitlement.
Scenario 2: You want an A1 licence
- Wait until you meet the minimum age for A1 and hold the required provisional entitlement.
- Complete CBT if it is required for your route and take the motorcycle theory test.
- Train on an A1-appropriate motorcycle or scooter, normally up to 125cc and 11kW.
- Pass both practical stages: Module 1 manoeuvres and Module 2 on-road riding.
- Before buying, check that the bike’s capacity, power and power-to-weight ratio fit A1 limits.
An A1 licence can suit a commuter who prefers a lightweight 125cc scooter, as well as a rider who wants a small geared motorcycle. For commuting options, compare storage, seat height, weather protection, fuel use and servicing access in addition to licence compliance. Our 125cc scooter commuting guide provides a useful comparison framework.
Scenario 3: You want an A2 motorcycle
- Check that you meet the minimum age for A2, or qualify through the applicable progressive route.
- Pass the motorcycle theory test unless your existing entitlement and circumstances mean it is not required.
- Select a motorcycle with no more than 35kW and no more than 0.2kW/kg.
- If the bike has been restricted, confirm that it was not derived from a model producing more than twice the permitted maximum power.
- Check the V5C, manufacturer specification and any restriction certificate before purchase.
- Pass the A2 Module 1 and Module 2 tests on a suitable machine.
A2 opens up more choice, including commuter motorcycles, touring machines and A2-compliant sports bikes. Some models are built within the limit; others use an approved restriction kit. Do not assume that every motorcycle described as “A2 legal” is suitable in every configuration. The A2 beginner sports bike guide can help you compare riding position, weight and running-cost considerations.
Scenario 4: You are planning a full A licence
- Check whether you qualify for direct access by age or progressive access after the required A2 period.
- Complete any required theory stage before booking the practical tests.
- Train and test on a motorcycle that meets the full-A test requirements.
- After passing, confirm that your licence record has been updated before riding a larger motorcycle.
- Recalculate insurance, tyres, servicing, fuel and security costs before changing bikes.
Progressive access is not an automatic upgrade. Holding an A2 licence does not, by itself, remove the power restriction. You must follow the applicable test route and pass it.
What to double-check
- Your licence codes: An automatic-only practical test can result in an automatic restriction, commonly shown by code 78. Check the codes on your driving licence before buying a geared motorcycle.
- Test vehicle suitability: The motorcycle used for a practical test must meet the required category and specification. Confirm the details with your training provider before attending.
- Power documentation: For A2 bikes, check the original and restricted power figures, the power-to-weight ratio and whether the restriction is approved and documented.
- Insurance: Tell the insurer exactly which licence, restriction and training status applies. A quotation based on the wrong entitlement may not provide the cover you expect.
- Vehicle registration: Compare the advert with the V5C, VIN, engine capacity and model year. Imported or modified motorcycles may need additional checks.
- Current test guidance: Module 1 layouts, booking arrangements and test requirements can change. Check the latest official guidance before paying for a test.
- Protective equipment: A legal licence does not make unsuitable equipment safe. Check helmet fit and current approval markings using our motorcycle helmet buying guide.
Common mistakes
Confusing engine size with licence category. A 125cc motorcycle is not automatically suitable for every rider or every licence. Power and power-to-weight limits also matter.
Assuming CBT is a permanent qualification. CBT must be renewed when its validity ends if you remain a learner. It also retains learner restrictions.
Buying first and checking entitlement later. Ask for the exact specification before paying a deposit. This is especially important for used sports bikes advertised as restricted.
Expecting an A2 licence to become full A automatically. Plan the next test, training cost and timing rather than assuming the restriction disappears with experience alone.
Ignoring ownership costs. A larger motorcycle can change insurance, tyre, chain, servicing and security requirements. Use the ownership cost guide before committing to a new category.
Relying on an old forum answer. Licence rules and test procedures are administrative details that can change. Treat online discussions as experience, not confirmation of your current entitlement.
When to revisit
Return to this checklist before booking CBT, theory or practical training; before renewing CBT; when moving from A1 to A2 or A2 to full A; and whenever you change from a standard motorcycle to a restricted, modified or imported model. It is also worth reviewing before the main riding season, when training appointments and used-bike demand may affect your plans.
For each review, check the latest official licence categories, age requirements, test instructions and licence codes. Then confirm the individual motorcycle’s specification with the manufacturer, seller and insurer. If the information conflicts, pause the purchase until the entitlement and documentation are clear. Rules can differ in Northern Ireland, so riders there should use the relevant local guidance rather than assuming that Great Britain rules apply.
Once your route is confirmed, write down four details: the licence category you hold, the date CBT or test entitlement expires, the maximum motorcycle specification allowed and the documents you still need. That short record makes it easier to compare scooters and sports bikes without relying on a vague “A2 compatible” label.
