A2 Restricted Motorcycle Licence

A2 Motorcycle Licence Training

The A2 licence is a full motorcycle licence for riders aged 19 or over, allowing motorcycles up to 35 kW, with the 20-35 kW band and power-to-weight rules. You can check the official GOV.UK motorcycle licence category rules.

Universal Motorcycle Training® provides A2 motorcycle licence training for riders who want to move beyond learner restrictions and ride an A2-compliant motorcycle legally and confidently. Our training is designed to prepare you for the DVSA Module 1 and Module 2 practical tests and to help you build safe riding habits for everyday road use.

What is an A2 motorcycle licence?

An A2 motorcycle licence is a full motorcycle licence with a power restriction. It allows you to ride motorcycles up to 35 kW, subject to the required power-to-weight and restriction rules.

Once you have passed the A2 practical tests, you can ride without L-plates, use motorways and carry a pillion passenger, as long as the motorcycle you ride is A2-compliant, road legal and properly insured.

For many riders, A2 is the natural next step after CBT and 125cc learner riding. It gives you access to larger and more capable motorcycles while still keeping within the A2 licence rules.

Who can take A2 training?

You can take A2 motorcycle licence training from age 19.

This route is suitable if you want a full motorcycle licence but are not yet old enough for the unrestricted Category A direct access route. It is also suitable for riders who want to gain more experience on a mid-power motorcycle before later upgrading to Category A through progressive access.

What do I need before the A2 tests?

Before taking the A2 practical tests, you normally need a valid CBT certificate. The CBT certificate is called a DL196 and is valid for 2 years. CBT is training, not a pass or fail test, and it must be valid unless you already hold the correct motorcycle entitlement.

You also need a motorcycle theory test pass before taking the practical tests. The practical motorcycle test has 2 parts: Module 1, which is the off-road test, and Module 2, which is the on-road test. You can read the official practical test information on GOV.UK motorcycle practical tests.

The A2 practical test must be taken on a motorcycle meeting DVSA A2 test-bike requirements, typically at least 245cc producing between 20 kW and 35 kW. The motorcycle must also meet the power-to-weight rules for the A2 category.

Using your own motorcycle for the test

Most of our trainees use our motorcycles, which already meet the DVSA A2 test requirements. If you plan to use your own machine, please read this section carefully, because getting it wrong means your test is cancelled and the fee is lost.

If your motorcycle has been restricted to A2, you must bring proof. DVSA requires a restriction certificate on headed paper from a main dealer, official importer or recognised specialist, showing the motorcycle registration number. A dyno test certificate is not accepted. Without acceptable proof, your test will be cancelled.

There are limits on what can be restricted. A motorcycle cannot be restricted to below half its original power, and its unrestricted power must not be more than 70 kW. So a 60 kW machine can be restricted no lower than 30 kW, and a machine above 70 kW cannot be used for the A2 test at all.

Transmission matters. If you take your tests on a motorcycle with automatic or semi-automatic transmission, your licence will only allow you to ride automatic or semi-automatic motorcycles. If you want an unrestricted-transmission A2 licence, you must test on a manual machine. We are happy to talk this through before you book.

You can check whether a specific machine is acceptable on the official DVSA list of motorcycles that can be used for riding tests.

What does the A2 course involve?

The A2 course involves training on an A2-compliant motorcycle with DVSA-qualified instructors. Training focuses on the skills and judgement needed to control a larger motorcycle safely and to meet the standard expected in the Module 1 and Module 2 practical tests.

Your training will cover machine control, smooth use of the clutch and throttle, braking, slow control, gear changes, observations, road positioning, junctions, roundabouts, bends, speed control and hazard awareness. You will also work on the specific skills needed for Module 1 and the on-road riding standard assessed in Module 2.

The amount of training needed depends on your current ability, riding experience and confidence. Some riders come from regular 125cc use, while others need more time to adjust to the weight, power and handling of an A2-compliant motorcycle. The aim is to prepare you properly, not rush you through the process.

What to bring

Please bring the correct documents and suitable clothing with you. If something essential is missing, your training or test may not be able to go ahead.

• Original valid UK driving licence.
• Valid CBT certificate, also known as DL196.
• Motorcycle theory test pass certificate.
• Glasses or contact lenses if you need them for riding.
• Suitable protective clothing: helmet – loan helmets available, motorcycle gloves, suitable jacket, sturdy trousers and boots that protect the ankles.
• If you are using your own restricted motorcycle, the restriction certificate described above.

Course fees

A2 packages start from £1,090. All three packages are all-inclusive and cover the motorcycle, helmet and clothing hire, insurance, fuel and £90.50 of Module 1 and Module 2 test fees.

The full comparison of the Bronze, Silver and Gold packages is set out in the package table further down this page. Please check it before booking so you choose the option that best matches your current riding experience and training needs.

Where we train

Universal Motorcycle Training® provides A2 motorcycle licence training from seven centres across London and Hertfordshire:

• Alperton
• Croydon
• Dagenham
• Edgware
• Eltham
• Wimbledon
• Hoddesdon (Hertfordshire)

Most centres operate seven days a week, giving riders more choice when planning training around work, study and other commitments.

Why train with us

Our A2 licence training is delivered by DVSA-qualified instructors who understand the step from learner riding to full-licence riding on a larger motorcycle.

We offer seven training centres, training seven days a week at most centres, and a clear route from CBT to A2 and then, when eligible, to full Category A. Training is structured around safe control, sound road judgement and preparation for the DVSA practical test standard.

Secure your spot

Booking online is required. To reserve your place, use our online booking system: Book your A2 course online.

If you need help before booking, email [email protected] and our team will guide you towards the most suitable next step.

FAQ

What is an A2 motorcycle licence?

An A2 licence is a full motorcycle licence for riders aged 19 or over. It allows you to ride motorcycles up to 35 kW, with the required power-to-weight and restriction rules.

What do I need before taking A2 tests?

For the direct access A2 route you normally need CBT, a motorcycle theory test pass and practical training on a suitable A2 motorcycle. You then need to pass Module 1 off-road and Module 2 on-road.

What bike do I use for the A2 practical test?

The A2 practical test must be taken on a motorcycle that meets the DVSA A2 test-bike requirements, typically at least 245cc and producing between 20 kW and 35 kW.

Can I use my own restricted motorcycle for the A2 test?

Yes, but you must bring a restriction certificate on headed paper from a main dealer, official importer or recognised specialist, showing the registration number. A dyno test certificate is not accepted and without proof the test is cancelled. A motorcycle cannot be restricted below half its original power, and its unrestricted power must not be more than 70 kW.

What happens if I take my A2 test on an automatic motorcycle?

If you pass on a motorcycle with automatic or semi-automatic transmission, your licence will only allow you to ride automatic or semi-automatic motorcycles. To ride manual machines you must take the tests on a manual motorcycle.

What can I ride after passing A2?

You can ride without L-plates, use motorways and carry a pillion passenger, as long as the motorcycle is A2-compliant.

How do I upgrade from A2 to a full Category A licence?

You can upgrade to Category A through progressive access after holding a full A2 licence for at least two years. From age 21 this usually means passing the practical tests again on a Category A motorcycle.