For many riders, the full Category A motorcycle licence is the point where motorcycling opens up properly. It removes learner restrictions and allows you to ride any size of motorcycle, provided the bike is insured, taxed, roadworthy and suitable for your ability. The Direct Access Scheme, usually called DAS, is the most common route to Category A for riders aged 24 or over.
This guide explains how DAS works, who can take it, what the DVSA tests involve and what changes once you hold a full Category A licence.
What is a Category A motorcycle licence?
A Category A motorcycle licence is the full, unrestricted motorcycle licence. Once you have it, you can ride any size of motorcycle, with no engine size or power limit attached to the licence category.
It also means you are no longer riding as a learner. You do not need L plates for the category you have passed, you can carry a pillion passenger, and you can ride on motorways. You must still ride within the law, follow the Highway Code and choose a motorcycle that suits your skill, experience and confidence.
Category A is different from A1, which is for light motorcycles up to 125cc and 11kW, and A2, which is for motorcycles up to 35kW. A1 and A2 are full licences in their own categories, but they are still limited by motorcycle size or power. Category A is the unrestricted one.
What does DAS mean?
DAS stands for Direct Access Scheme. It is the route that allows eligible riders to train and take the practical motorcycle tests on a larger motorcycle, leading directly to a full Category A licence.
For most riders, DAS applies from age 24. If you are 24 or over, you can complete CBT, pass the motorcycle theory test, train on a suitable Category A motorcycle and then take the DVSA Module 1 and Module 2 practical tests.
The word ‘direct’ is important. It means you do not need to pass A1 or A2 first if you meet the age requirement and are ready for the larger motorcycle. That does not mean the training is rushed. A good DAS course should build your machine control, road judgement, observation, positioning, use of speed and confidence before test day.
Who can take DAS?
You can normally take the DAS route if you are aged 24 or over and hold the correct provisional motorcycle entitlement. You will also need a valid CBT certificate and a valid motorcycle theory test pass before taking the practical tests.
There is another route called progressive access. If you are aged 21 or over and have held an A2 licence for at least two years, you can progress to Category A by taking the relevant practical tests on a Category A motorcycle. This route can be useful for riders who started on A2 at 19 and want to move up before turning 24.
If you are not yet old enough for DAS or progressive access, you may still be able to work towards A1 or A2 depending on your age. The right route depends on your licence history, your age and the type of motorcycle you want to ride.
The route to a full Category A licence
The usual route is straightforward, but each stage matters. You need to complete the steps in the correct order:
- CBT: Compulsory Basic Training is normally the first practical step. It gives you the basic skills and road safety awareness needed to ride as a learner while you build experience. You can read more about CBT training in London on our CBT course page.
- Motorcycle theory test: This is separate from a car theory test. You need to pass the motorcycle theory test before taking the practical motorcycle tests, unless a specific exemption applies.
- Module 1: This is the off-road manoeuvring test, taken at a DVSA motorcycle test centre. It includes slow control, controlled stops, emergency stop and hazard avoidance exercises.
- Module 2: This is the on-road riding test. It assesses how you ride in real traffic, including road positioning, observations, junctions, roundabouts, speed choice, signalling and independent riding.
For Category A, the practical test must be taken on a suitable unrestricted motorcycle that meets current DVSA test vehicle rules. At the time of writing, that means a motorcycle of at least 595cc, with at least 50kW engine power and a minimum unladen weight of 175kg. Training schools normally provide suitable machines for DAS training and test use.
What do you learn on a DAS course?
A DAS course is not just about getting through the test. It is about preparing you to ride a larger, heavier and more powerful motorcycle safely and confidently.
Training normally includes slow-speed control, clutch and throttle coordination, braking, U-turns, slalom, figure of eight, emergency stop and avoidance exercises. On the road, you will work on observations, mirrors, lifesaver checks, road positioning, bend assessment, junction routines, roundabouts, dual carriageways and safe progress.
Many riders arrive with CBT experience on a 125cc scooter or geared bike. Moving to a Category A motorcycle can feel very different. The weight, acceleration, braking and clutch control all need respect. Good training helps you manage those differences without becoming tense or overconfident.
How long does DAS training take?
There is no single answer because riders do not all start from the same place. A confident rider with good road experience may need fewer training days than someone who has only recently completed CBT or has not ridden for a while.
The best course length depends on your current ability, whether you ride manual or automatic, how comfortable you are in London traffic, and how ready you are for test-standard riding. The aim is not just to book a test quickly. The aim is to reach a safe, consistent and confident standard before taking Module 1 and Module 2.
For current course options and prices, please see our DAS and full motorcycle licence course page. We do not include prices in this article because course structures and availability can change.
What changes when you pass Category A?
Once you pass Module 1 and Module 2 for Category A, you hold the full unrestricted motorcycle licence. You can remove L plates, ride on motorways and carry a pillion passenger. You can also ride any size of motorcycle, subject to the usual legal requirements such as insurance, tax, MOT where required and roadworthiness.
Passing the test is a strong step forward, but it is not the end of learning. Larger motorcycles can cover distance quickly and make mistakes more costly. New full-licence riders should build experience steadily, choose their first bigger bike sensibly and keep developing observation, judgement and defensive riding skills.
Frequently asked questions
Can I do DAS without CBT?
No. CBT is normally required before you can ride on the road as a learner and before you can take the practical motorcycle tests. It is the first practical stage for most riders working towards DAS.
Do I need a motorcycle theory test if I already passed a car theory test?
Yes, in most cases. The motorcycle theory test is separate from the car theory test. You normally need a valid motorcycle theory test pass before taking Module 1 and Module 2.
Is Category A the same as DAS?
Not exactly. Category A is the full unrestricted motorcycle licence. DAS is the direct access route that many riders aged 24 or over use to get that licence.
Can I go from A2 to Category A before I am 24?
Yes, if you are aged 21 or over and have held an A2 licence for at least two years, you can use progressive access by taking the required practical tests on a Category A motorcycle.
Book DAS training in London and Hertfordshire
If you are ready to work towards your full Category A motorcycle licence, our team can help you choose the right route, course length and training centre. We offer motorcycle training at our seven centres across London and Hertfordshire: Alperton, Croydon, Edgware, Eltham, Wimbledon, Dagenham and Hoddesdon.
To discuss your licence route or book DAS training, visit our contact page and speak to the Universal Motorcycle Training team. We will help you take the next step with clear advice, practical training and a steady focus on safe riding.