Advice
What Is An 'A' Motorcycle Licence?
The A licence is the top level of licence, and it allows you to ride motorcycles or scooters of any power.
Words by: Auto Trader
Additional words by: Tom Roberts
Last updated on 2 July 2024 | 0 min read
One of the next steps you can take after getting your CBT (Compulsory Bike Training), the A licence is the peak motorcycle licence in the UK allowing you to ride motorcycles or scooters of any power, with or without a sidecar and a passenger.
With the A licence, you can also ride motor tricycles with a power output of over 15KW. Like the A2 licence, there are two routes to qualifying for an A licence:
With the A licence, you can also ride motor tricycles with a power output of over 15KW. Like the A2 licence, there are two routes to qualifying for an A licence:
- If you have held an A2 licence for two years and are at least 21 years of age, you can take a further practical test to graduate to an A licence.
- Or, if you are at least 24 years old, you can take CBT, theory and practical tests to qualify for your licence by the Direct Access route. Again, many training centres offer such courses over 3-4 days with prices starting at around £600 including all equipment.
What Size Bike Can I Take The Practical Elements Of An A Licence On?
The main downside to consider is that all practical elements must be taken on a bike of at least 595cc, producing a minimum of 53.6bhp. If you are only used to riding 125cc motorbikes or lower-powered scooters, you might want to consider doing a comfort ride on a bigger bike. However, once acquired, the A licence will allow you to ride any motorcycle of any engine size and is considered the peak of motorcycle licences.
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