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Taking a riding test on a moped

The moped you use for your test must:

• have an engine capacity of no more than 50 cubic centimetres (cc) capacity
• have a top speed of no more than around 32 miles per hour (mph), which is 50 kilometres per hour (km/h)
• be fitted with a speedometer that measures speed in mph
• display L-plates ('L' or 'D' plates in Wales) on the front and rear
• be legal and roadworthy and have no engine warning lights showing

If your moped doesn't meet the rules

If your moped doesn't meet the rules:

• your test will be cancelled
• you may lose your fee

• Information for moped riders

Taking a riding test on a motorcycle

The motorcycle you use for your test must be:

• 75 cc or more
• fitted with a speedometer that measures speed in mph
• display L-plates ('L' or 'D' plates in Wales) on the front and rear
• be legal and roadworthy and have no engine warning lights showing

Enclosed motorcycles can't be used

Enclosed motorcycles like the BMW C1 can't be used for the test.

If your motorcycle doesn't meet the rules

If your motorcycle doesn't meet the rules:

• your test will be cancelled
• you may lose your fee
  

Automatic or semi-automatic transmission

If you pass your test on a motorcycle with automatic or semi-automatic transmission:

• it will be recorded on your licence
• your full licence rights will be limited to motorcycles in that category

• Motorcycles you can ride

Motorcycle sub-categories

There are three sub-categories of motorcycles you can use for your test. You must use the same sub-category of motorcycle for both modules of the test.

The sub-category of motorcycle you take your test on will affect the sub-categories you can ride after passing your test.

Sub-category A1 (light motorcycle)

Example of a light motorcycle

A sub-category A1 motorcycle is a solo motorcycle between 75 and 125 cc.

They have a power output of no more than 11 kilowatts

If you pass your test on a motorcycle in this sub-category you can ride motorcycles up to 125 cc as a full licence holder.

• Download 'List of A1 and A2 motorcycles' (PDF, 22K) Opens new window

• Help with PDF files

Sub-category A2 (standard motorcycle)

Example of a standard motorcycle

A sub-category A2 motorcycle a solo motorcycle between 121 and 125 cc.

They must be capable of more than 62.5 mph (100 km/h)

If you pass your test on this sub-category of motorcycle you can ride motorcycles with a power output of no more than 25 kilowatts. That's the same as 33 brake horse power. This restriction will last for two years.

After two years the restriction will end automatically. You can then ride a motorcycle of any engine size and power output.

• Download 'List of A1 and A2 motorcycles' (PDF, 22K) Opens new window

• Help with PDF files

Category A (unrestricted)

Example of an unrestricted motorcycle

A category A unrestricted motorcycle is a solo motorcycle with a power output of at least 35 kilowatts (46.6 brake horse power).

You can take your test on a motorcycle in this category under the direct access scheme or progressive access scheme.

If you pass your test on an unrestricted motorcycle, you can ride a motorcycle of any engine size and power output.

Motorcycles with a sidecar

You can only use a motorcycle with a sidecar for your test if you have certain disabilities.

The rules for a motorcycle with a sidecar are the same as for a solo motorcycle, but:

• categories A and A1 must not have a power to weight ratio of more than 0.16 kilowatts per kilogram
• passengers are not allowed to ride in the sidecar during the test

The licence you get from passing this test will only allow you to use a motorcycle with a sidecar.

Help for motorcyclists with a disability

The National Association for Bikers with a Disability is a registered charity that provides information to help disabled people enjoy independent motorcycling. You can visit their website to find out about vehicle adapations that can be made.

• The National Association for Bikers with a Disability Opens new window

New rules if you take a test from 19 January 2024

There will be new rules about the moped or motorcycle you use for your test from 19 January 2013. If you are taking your test from that date, you'll need to follow the new rules.

• New rules for mopeds and motorcyles used for riding tests

More useful links

• Motorcycle practical test explained

• Safety helmets and protective clothing for motorcyclists

• Driving test fees

• Find your nearest motorcycle module one test centre Opens new window

• Find your nearest motorcycle module two test centre Opens new window