Licences & DAS
UK motorcycle licences are tiered by your age and the power of the bike you want to ride. Passing the DVSA full test means you can ditch your L-plates, carry a pillion passenger, and potentially ride on the motorway.
Requirements
AM
Mopeds with speed range of 25 km/h to 45 km/h
Compulsory basic training (CBT), theory test, practical test on all powered 2-wheeled moped
Minimum Age
16
Requirements
AM
Small 3-wheelers
(up to 50 cc and below 4 kW)
CBT, theory test, practical test
Minimum Age
16
Requirements
AM
Light quadricycles (weighing under 350 kg, top speed 45 km/h)
CBT, theory test, practical test
Minimum Age
16
Requirements
Q
Same as AM plus 2 or 3-wheeled mopeds with top speed of 25 km/h
Granted with AM
Minimum Age
16
Requirements
A1
Light motorcycle up to 11 kW (and a power-to-weight ratio not more than 0.1 kW per kg) and 125 cc
CBT, theory test, practical test
Minimum Age
17
Requirements
A1
Motor tricycles with a power output not more than 15 kW
CBT, theory test, practical test
Minimum Age
17
Requirements
A1
Motor tricycles with a power output not more than 15 kW
CBT, theory test, practical test
Minimum Age
17
Requirements
A2
Standard motorcycle up to 35 kW (and a power-to-weight ratio not more than 0.2 kW per kg), bike must not be derived from vehicle more than twice its power
> Direct access route - theory and practical
​> Progressive access route - 2 years experience on A1 motorbike and a further practical test
Minimum Age
19
Requirements
A
Unrestricted motorcycles in size/power, with or without a sidecar, and motor tricycles with power output over 15 kW
> Direct access route - CBT, theory and practical (you must be at least 24)
​> Progressive access route - held an A2 licence for a minimum of 2 years - practical test (21 or over)
Minimum Age
21
Direct Access Scheme (DAS)
​If you are 24 or older (or 21+ and upgrading via progressive access), the Direct Access Scheme (DAS) is the way to get your full motorcycle licence. DAS allows you to learn and take your test on a large, unrestricted machine (over 595cc and at least 50kW). Once you pass, you can jump straight onto any size bike you choose. Here is the step-by-step journey to achieve a full A licence.
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NOTE: If you are applying for your AM, A1, or A2 licence, you can also use the links below.
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The Step-by-Step Journey
1. Check Your Prerequisites: Age 24+ (or 21+ for progressive access).
You must hold a valid UK driving licence (full or provisional) and have a current Compulsory Basic Training (CBT) certificate.
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2. Pass the Motorcycle Theory Test: Must be completed before booking practical tests.
Even if you have a full car licence, you must pass the separate motorcycle theory and hazard perception test. Your certificate is valid for two years.
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3. The 'Step-Up' Assessment: 3 Hours.
Before jumping into full DAS training, you will complete an introductory session on a larger, more powerful motorcycle. This allows our instructors to assess your handling skills and tailor an accurate training plan for you. ​
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4. Module 1 Test (Mod 1): Off-road maneuver assessment.
Conducted at a DVSA safe-riding area, this test checks your slow-speed control, slalom, figure-of-eight, U-turn, cornering, and emergency stop/hazard avoidance maneuvers.
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5. Module 2 Test (Mod 2): On-road riding test (~40 minutes)
The final hurdle. You will be followed by a DVSA examiner on the road, navigating various traffic conditions, junctions, roundabouts, and completing a period of independent riding.
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Passing both Module 1 and Module 2 on a DAS-compliant bike rewards you with a full, unrestricted Category A Motorcycle Licence—no L-plates, passengers allowed, and motorway legal from day one.
Step-up lessons (online booking)
Mondays & Wednesdays
Saturdays