What Bike Can I Ride with a Full Car Licence? Your Comprehensive Guide
Dreaming of hitting the open road on two wheels but unsure about the licensing requirements? Many individuals with only a standard car licence wonder about their motorcycle riding options. This article demystifies the process, clarifying what type of motorcycle you can legally operate with a full car licence in the UK and providing essential information to get you started on your biking journey.
Understanding Motorcycle Licence Categories
The licensing system for motorcycles in the UK is structured into several categories, each with specific age and training requirements. For those holding a full car licence (Category B), the good news is that there are indeed options for getting on a motorcycle, though they come with certain stipulations. These options generally fall under the ‘A’ licence categories, but a full car licence can allow for a stepping stone or even direct access depending on your age and how you approach obtaining your motorcycle entitlement.
The Direct Access Route vs. A Stepping Stone
For riders aged 24 and over, the most straightforward path to riding any size of motorcycle is typically the ‘Direct Access Scheme’ (DAS). This allows you to train for and take your motorcycle tests on a larger, more powerful machine, granting you a full A licence. However, if you are under 24, or prefer a more gradual approach, there are other categories to consider that might be accessible with your car licence as a starting point.
Motorcycle Categories and Your Car Licence
It’s crucial to understand that a standard full car licence (Category B) does **not** automatically grant you permission to ride a motorcycle of any capacity. You will need to obtain a specific motorcycle licence or provisional entitlement. However, your car licence can be instrumental in the process, particularly for those aged 19 and over.
Category A1: Light Motorcycles
This category is for motorcycles with an engine capacity of up to 125cc and a maximum power of 11kW (approximately 14.6bhp). If you are 17 or over and hold a full car licence, you can obtain a provisional motorcycle entitlement and complete a Compulsory Basic Training (CBT) course. After passing your CBT, you can ride a 125cc motorcycle. To gain a full A1 licence, you would then need to pass your theory and practical tests on a 125cc machine.
Factoid: The CBT is a mandatory training course for all new motorcyclists in the UK, designed to teach basic riding skills and safety awareness. It does not count as a test but is a prerequisite for riding unaccompanied on the road.
Category A2: Medium-Powered Motorcycles
For those aged 19 and over, the A2 licence allows riding motorcycles with a maximum power of 35kW (approximately 46.6bhp). If you have already completed your CBT and passed your theory test for A1, you can progress to A2. Alternatively, if you are 19 or over, you can directly take your CBT and then train for and pass your practical test on a motorcycle that meets A2 power restrictions. A full car licence holder can also do this by obtaining the relevant provisional entitlement.
Category A: Unrestricted Motorcycles
This is the full motorcycle licence, allowing you to ride any size and power of motorcycle. As mentioned, if you are 24 or over, the Direct Access Scheme (DAS) is the most common route. This involves completing a CBT, then a theory test, and finally, two practical tests on a large motorcycle. If you are between 20 and 23, you can still obtain a full A licence, but it’s a progressive route. You would typically start with an A1 or A2 licence and after holding it for two years, you can take another practical test to upgrade to the full A licence without needing to redo your theory test.
The Role of Compulsory Basic Training (CBT)
Regardless of your age or car licence status, if you wish to ride a motorcycle or scooter on the road, you will almost certainly need to complete a CBT course first. This is a one-day course covering the fundamentals of riding. After successfully completing it, you’ll receive a DL196 certificate, valid for two years, which allows you to ride a specified category of motorcycle. To ride a more powerful machine or to gain a full licence, further tests are required.
What You Can Ride After CBT (with a Car Licence)
- If you are 17 or over, you can ride a motorcycle up to 125cc (Category A1) and at a maximum power of 11kW.
- If you are 19 or over with a full car licence, and have completed CBT and passed your theory test, you can progress to A2 category machines.
Steps to Riding a Motorcycle with a Full Car Licence
- Obtain a Provisional Motorcycle Entitlement: Apply for this through the DVLA. Your car licence will be a prerequisite.
- Complete Your CBT: This is essential for all new riders.
- Pass Your Motorcycle Theory Test: This covers road rules and hazard perception.
- Take Practical Training and Tests: Depending on your age and desired category (A1, A2, or A), you will undertake specific practical training and pass one or two practical tests.
Motorcycle Licence Categories Summary
| Category | Minimum Age | Engine Capacity | Max Power | Direct Access? |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| A1 | 17 | Up to 125cc | 11kW (14.6bhp) | No (Progressive access typically) |
| A2 | 19 | N/A (but restricted power) | 35kW (46.6bhp) | Yes (with CBT & Theory) |
| A | 24 (or 20-23 via progressive) | Unrestricted | Unrestricted | Yes (DAS) |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I ride a 125cc scooter with just a car licence?
No, not automatically. You will need to complete your Compulsory Basic Training (CBT) and obtain a provisional motorcycle entitlement. Once you have passed your CBT, you can legally ride a 125cc motorcycle or scooter if you are 17 or over.
Do I need to retake my car driving test if I get a motorcycle licence?
No, obtaining a motorcycle licence does not affect your existing car driving licence. They are separate entitlements.
How long does it take to get a full motorcycle licence?
The time frame varies significantly depending on your age, how quickly you learn, and the category you are aiming for. Completing a CBT can be done in a day. Passing the theory and practical tests can take anywhere from a few weeks to several months, depending on your availability for training and test dates.
Conclusion
In summary, while a full car licence doesn’t permit you to ride a motorcycle unsupervised, it serves as a vital foundation for obtaining your motorcycle entitlement. For those aged 17 and over, the journey typically begins with a CBT, followed by theory and practical tests, allowing progression through A1, A2, and ultimately to the unrestricted A category licence. Carefully consider your age, experience, and aspirations to choose the right path. With the correct training and licensing, you can soon be enjoying the freedom and exhilaration of motorcycling.
