kW, or a motor tricycle with power not exceeding 15 kW. A2 motorcycle licence:  At age 19 or over, you take a test on a motorcycle without sidecar of at least 395 cc with a power output of at least 25 kW but not exceeding 35 kW. If you pass, you may ride any motorcycle not exceeding 35 kW and with a power to weight ratio not exceeding 0.2 kW/kg. 

Full A motorcycle licence:  Test taken on a motorcycle without sidecar, of at least 595 cc and an engine power of at least 40 kW. This gives you full access to all motorcycles and motor tricycles. You obtain a category A licence by taking progressive access from age 21, or under the direct access scheme from age 24. 

Category A under progressive access:  You can take a category A practical test at age 21 if you already have an A2 licence that you’ve held for a minimum of two years. You don’t need to take another theory test or hold a CBT certificate. 

Category A under direct access:  This is for riders aged 24 or over. To obtain a category A licence you must 

● successfully complete a CBT course 

● pass the motorcycle theory test 

● pass the practical motorcycle test. 

Passing the practical test on a motorcycle of at least 40 kW (53.6bhp) gives immediate access to all sizes of motorcycle. You MUST NOT  carry a pillion passenger or pull a trailer until you have passed your test. Also see Rule 253 covering vehicles prohibited from motorways. 

Law MV(DL)R reg 16 

