Types of motorcycle licenses by engine size in Spain

Types of motorcycle licenses by engine size in Spain
21/10/2020 17:22

For those wondering how many motorcycle licenses one can obtain in Spain, here’s the answer and everything you need to know. In Spain, there are currently up to four types of motorcycle licenses, depending on the type of motorcycle you intend to ride and its limitations. Specifically, these four licenses are AM, A1, A2, and A. We’ll explain how they differ and what each one is for.

It is clear that depending on the type, model, and engine capacity of the motorcycle you have, you will need the validation of a specific license. This is why it is so important to know the specifications of each one, and also what you can ride with a B car license.

Types of Motorcycle Licenses

We have already mentioned that current regulations offer the option to acquire up to four different models of motorcycle licenses in Spain. Each of them has a series of specific characteristics and limitations that we will highlight below so you know exactly which license you need for your motorcycle.

License AM

This type of license has changed its name. It was previously known as a ‘moped license,’ but now we refer to it as the AM license for motorcycles. With it, you can ride motorcycles of less than 50cc. It is the first step that one can take to be able to ride a motorcycle.

With this AM license, you can ride two- or three-wheeled mopeds and light quadricycles, as long as they do not exceed 50cc. Additionally, from the age of 15, you can obtain this license to ride this type of motorcycle.

License A1

With the A1 license, you are licensed to ride motorcycles of up to 125cc. It is ideal for obtaining a license for scooter-type motorcycles to get around the city. It must also adhere to parameters of not exceeding 15 HP. What is the minimum age to obtain the A1 License? At 16 years old, you can enroll and take the theoretical and practical tests.

License A2

This motorcycle license model is relatively new. It was introduced at the end of 2009 as a preferred model to unify the different European motorcycle licenses. It follows EU guidelines to standardize motorcycle driving permit systems in the respective countries of Europe.

This A2 license allows you to ride motorcycles with a maximum power of 47 HP, and for this, you must be of legal age (18 years).

License A

This A license allows you to ride all types of motorcycles, regardless of weight, power, mode, and engine capacity. To access the exams to obtain this A license, it is mandatory to have at least 2 years of experience with the A2 license. The minimum age for this license is 20 years.

Tests to Obtain a Motorcycle License in Spain

To obtain any of the licenses mentioned in the previous section, it is necessary to take the usual tests. First, a theoretical test, in a multiple-choice format, to validate the main and basic knowledge of traffic. Then, it is necessary to pass the practical exam on a prepared circuit where the mechanics and agility of riding the motorcycle according to the license being obtained will be assessed.

What Motorcycles Can Be Ridden with a Car License?

Another common question is, what motorcycles can be ridden with a car license? The regular car license (license B) allows you to ride motorcycles that fall under the A1 license category. However, it is necessary to have at least three years of experience in possession of the B car license for this option to be valid.