Licence Options
There are essentially 3 different classifications of UK Full Motorcycle Driving Licences. These classifications will also be issued with endorsed restrictions that will result from the type of vehicle that the test is taken on.
CATEGORY A1 - Light Motorcycle Licence
CATEGORY A2 - Standard Motorcycle Licence
Direct and Accelerated Access Options
CATEGORY A1 - Light Motorcycle Licence
The practical test for this category must be taken on a motorcycle of between 75cc and 125cc. On passing the test the full licence allows the rider to ride any Light Motorcycle without L-Plates up to a maximum capacity of 125cc. And with a maximum power output of no greater than 11kW (14.66bhp).
If the test is taken on an automatic or semi-automatic machine (Honda C90, Yamaha TY80, Honda Vision 80, etc.) then the licence will be endorsed with a restriction limiting the rider to drive only automatic and semi automatic machines up to 125cc as above.
Training and testing for this category is ideal for the rider that uses a light motorcycle for commuting to work etc., and has no inclination to move onto a larger machine.
CATEGORY A2 - Standard Motorcycle Licence
The practical test for this category must be taken on a motorcycle of between 121cc and 125cc that is capable of achieving not less than 100kph. On passing the test the full licence allows the rider to ride any Motorcycle without L-Plates up to a maximum power output of no greater than 25kW (33bhp), for a period of two years. After the two year period the Licence is automatically uprated to allow you to ride any two wheeler ever built.
If the test is taken on an automatic or semi-automatic machine then the licence will be endorsed with a restriction limiting the rider to drive only automatic and semi-automatic machines up to the power limits as above.
Training and testing for Category A1 and Category A2 (restricted) are the only options for learner riders under 21 years of age. The effect of this legislation therefore means that for young riders, no one under the age of nineteen will be able to ride a motorcycle more powerful than the 33 bhp limit.
Direct and Accelerated Access Options
Riders over the age of 21, or those who are 21 before their two-year restriction ends, have enhanced options open to them and may train for a full Category A licence that is unrestricted.
DIRECT ACCESS
The practical test must be taken on a motorcycle with a power output of no less than 35kW (46.6bhp). On passing the test the full licence allows the rider to ride any Motorcycle without L-Plates, and avoids the power restriction imposed by the standard licence.
If the test is taken on an automatic or semi-automatic machine then the licence will be endorsed with a restriction limiting the rider to drive only automatic and semi-automatic machines.
ACCELERATED ACCESS
This option is exactly as above but is the route taken by the holders of power restricted Full Category A licences who are 21 or over before the two year restriction ends and wish to move up to a more powerful machine. You will return to learner status and restrictions whilst training and testing on the larger bike, but a test fail will not affect your previous licence status.
IMPORTANT NOTES
You may train and test on a machine that exceeds 46.6bhp provided that:
You are accompanied at ALL times by a Department of Transport Approved Direct Access Instructor or Examiner.
You are in radio contact with your escort.
You observe the standard learner regulations, L-Plates, no pillions and no motorways.
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