Motorcycles are an increasingly attractive option for many drivers. But do you know what the requirements are to have a motorcycle license? We explain everything to you.
Those who drive them say they give a feeling of freedom and are more practical than cars. Yes, it’s true that motorcycles can bring many advantages: they are easier to maneuver in traffic and park, they consume less fuel and are generally cheaper than a car.
For those who have a category B driving license, it is possible to drive certain motorcycles, without needing further assessments. But, depending on the age of the driver and the type of motorcycle you want, you may need a specific driving license.
What categories of motorcycle license are there?
Motorcycle driving licenses are divided into four categories: AM, A1, A2 and A. To obtain a driving license for each type of motorcycle, the law establishes a progression system linked to the driver’s age.
AM Category – 14 and 16 years old
The AM category includes motor vehicles with two or three wheels and light quadricycles, with a cylinder capacity of up to 50 cm.3, and which do not reach speeds exceeding 45km/h. Holders of category AM licenses can also drive category I agricultural vehicles. This type of license does not allow transporting passengers or driving on motorways.
This letter can be obtained from the age of 14 or 16, with authorization from the parents or legal representative. To be able to obtain the AM category license, theoretical and practical training and an exam are required. However, if the candidate already has another driving license, they are exempt from the code exam.
Category A1 – 16 years old
A category A1 driving license can be obtained from the age of 16. Enables you to drive motorcycles with an engine capacity of up to 125cm3, tricycles with maximum power up to 15kW, mopeds and all types of vehicles included in the AM category. The category A1 license also allows you to travel on any road – such as motorways – and transport passengers over the age of seven.
If it is your first time getting your driving license, the training includes 32 hours of theoretical classes, 12 hours of practical classes and 120 km driven, followed by specific exams in each case.
Category A2 – 18 years old
Category A2 allows you to drive motorcycles with no cylinder capacity limit and maximum power of up to 35 kW. The holder of this driving license can also drive all AM and A1 category vehicles. This card can be taken from the age of 18.
As in category A1, 32 hours of theoretical training, 12 hours of practice and 120km of driving are required, followed by specific exams. However, anyone who already has an A1 license and wants an A2, is exempt from theoretical classes and code exam and only has to complete practical training and the driving test.
Category A – 20 and 24 years old
A category A driving license allows you to drive any motorcycle, with no capacity or power limits, and with or without a sidecar. In addition to these, it also allows you to drive all vehicles in the AM, A1 and A2 categories. This letter can be taken:
- From the age of 20, as long as the driver has had a category A2 license for at least two years;
- From the age of 24;
For category A, in addition to the 32 hours of code classes, 12 hours and 200km of driving are required. Anyone who already has a category A2 license only needs to take the practical exam.
What motorcycles can I drive with a license category B?
Since 2009, the law provides that anyone with a category B driving license (which entitles them to drive heavy quadricycles and light cars) can drive any motorcycle up to 125cm.3 cylinder capacity, as long as one of the following conditions is met:
- Be 25 years old or over;
- Have a valid AM category driving license;
Anyone who has a light vehicle license and wants to qualify for a category A motorcycle license needs to attend four hours of specific theoretical classes and five hours of theoretical-practical classes.
What do I need to get a motorcycle license and how much does it cost?
To obtain a motorcycle license, you must present the following documents to the driving school:
- Citizen card or other identification document that confirms the date of birth and residence in Portugal;
- Taxpayer number;
- Medical certificate proving physical and mental fitness;
In addition to these documents, there are specific requirements, such as not having any prohibition or inhibition from driving or any other safety measure that prevents driving.
In the case of minors, the authorization of their parents or legal guardians is also required. For those applying for the AM category, it is also necessary to present a school certificate of attendance at least in the 7th year of schooling and success in the previous academic year. Those under 18 who apply for category A1 need to present their birth certificate.
Motorcycle licenses are subject to a provisional regime during the first three years, whatever the category.
How much does a motorcycle license cost?
The value of the license always depends on the driving school, but can vary between 300 euros and 1,000 euros, depending on the category and the schools’ offers. For example, there are driving schools that offer discounts when you opt for cash payment.
In addition to paying for the school’s training, other costs also need to be considered:
- Learning license: €15;
- Theoretical test: €15;
- Practical test: €30;
- Driving license issuance: €30;
Since these fees are paid by the schools, they are sometimes already included in the total price of the charter.
If you are thinking about getting your license and purchasing a motorcycle, you should also consider the costs of equipment, such as a helmet, gloves and suitable footwear. There is also the possibility of failing the code or driving test. In this case, you will have to pay the respective fees again, which may increase in value.
What is the validity of the card?
The dates for revalidating your driving license have changed. Some people think that they only have to renew their license at age 50 or on the date stated on the document, but that’s not the case. The renewal date, whether for cars or motorcycles, varies depending on when the license was obtained.
Did you know that you must renew your license by the day before your birthday? For example, if you need to revalidate your license at age 50 and you don’t do so, it will expire on your birthday. The deadline to deal with this renewal begins six months in advance.
- Letter taken before January 2, 2013:
- At age 70 and, thereafter, every two years;
- Letters taken from January 2, 2013:
- First revalidation must take place on the date stated in the letter;
- After the date of the first renewal, every 15 years until age 60;
- At the age of 70 and, from this age onwards, every two years;
- Letters taken from July 30, 2016:
- Every 15 years, after the date on which you obtained your license until you are 60 years old;
- At age 60 and, thereafter, every five years;
- At age 70 and then every two years.
If you are convinced to get your motorcycle license, after passing the exam we will help you choose the motorcycle of your dreams. There are models for all tastes, so you need to know which is the best option, depending on your needs. There are also other issues to take into account, such as insurance or equipment. If you need help, Cofidis has Moto Credit at your disposal.
