How to Get a Category A1 Driving Licence in the United Kingdom?

The DVSA opened a consultation in January 2026 exploring a “progressive access via training” route that could let A2 riders upgrade to a full Category A license through a training course, rather than retaking both practical test modules. Nothing has changed yet. Still, it’s worth watching if you’re planning your progression. This piece covers what A1 authorizes at 17 in the UK, the exact 2026 costs, and how CBT, theory, and the two-part practical test fit together.

What Category A1 covers

A1 authorizes light motorcycles up to 125 cc, with a maximum power of 11 kW (14.6 bhp) and a power-to-weight ratio not exceeding 0.1 kW/kg. Unlike a CBT certificate, an A1 never expires, lets you ride without L-plates, carry a pillion passenger, and use motorways.

Minimum age

You need to be 17 to hold A1 in the UK, one year above the EU baseline of 16. For 17- and 18-year-olds, A1 is the only full motorcycle license available.

Where A1 sits in the UK’s motorcycle system

The UK runs AM (16, mopeds up to 50cc/4kW), A1 (17, up to 125cc/11kW), A2 (19, up to 35kW), and full Category A (21 via progressive access after two years on A2, or 24 via Direct Access Scheme with no prior motorcycle license required).

Compulsory Basic Training (CBT) comes first.

Before riding any moped, scooter, or motorcycle on the road with L-plates, you must complete CBT, a one-day course, not a pass/fail test, where an instructor confirms you’ve reached a safe basic level. Groups are capped at four learners per trainer for on-site elements and two for on-road elements. You’ll receive a DL196 certificate valid for two years; if you haven’t gained a full motorcycle license within that window, you’ll need to redo CBT. CBT typically costs £130–£200, depending on the provider and location, with some 2026 pricing at £190–£200.

The theory test

You must pass a Motorcycle Theory Test, including a hazard perception component, before taking any practical test. You’ll need at least 43 out of 50 on the multiple-choice section and 44 out of 75 on hazard perception. The test costs £23, and your pass certificate is valid for two years. You’re exempt from retaking theory if you’ve passed a two-part moped or lower-category motorcycle test since 1 July 1996.

The two-part practical test

Module 1 covers off-road maneuvers; Module 2 covers on-road riding. Your test motorcycle for A1 must be between 120 cc and 125 cc and not exceed 11 kW. Module 2 costs £75 (or £88.50 on evenings, weekends, and bank holidays); Module 1 pricing is similar. Once you pass both, the DVLA updates your license category, and you can ride without L-plates on all roads, including motorways.

What it costs overall

Total A1 costs vary significantly by provider and the amount of training you need. A provisional license application costs £34 online or £43 by post. Full training packages covering CBT, plus preparation for Modules 1 and 2, commonly start from £400–£800. However, some schools quote from £790 for comprehensive packages that bundle gear, motorcycle hire, insurance, fuel, and test fees. Confirm exactlywhat’ss included before comparing prices across providers.

An exception for older car license holders

If you hold a full car license issued before 1 February 2001, you can ride a restricted 50cc moped on the road without L-plates or CBT. This exemption doesn’t extend to anything over 50cc, and completing CBT is still recommended for safety even if you’re technically exempt.

Automatic transmission

Testing on an automatic-transmission motorcycle typically restricts the resulting license to automatic machines only.

Upgrading from A1 to A2, and onward to full Category A

After two years of holding A1, you can take another practical test to qualify for A2 without repeating the theory test. After two years holding A2, the same logic lets you progress to full, unrestricted Category A from 21 through another practical test alone.

The Direct Access Scheme (DAS)

Riders aged 24 or over can bypass A1 and A2 entirely, going straight to a full Category A licenselicense via CBT, theory,, and both practical modules. The test motorcycle must be at least 595cc and produce at least 40 kW as a genuinely unrestricted, full-power machine. DAS training costs start from around £790–£800 and is generally not recommended for complete novices without any prior riding experience.

Possible future changes

The DVSA’s January 2026 consultation is exploring reforms, including a progressive-access-via-training route that would let A2 riders reach full Category A by completing a training course rather than retesting both modules. As of this writing, nothing has been implemented; these remain proposals under consultation, so don’t plan around them until they are officially confirmed.

Validity

Once issued, A1, A2, and full Category A licenses don’t expire or require retesting to remain valid. You can hold A1 indefinitely without ever progressing further if that suits your riding needs.

Tips that actually help

• Book your theory test before booking practical training, since you need a valid pass to sit either practical module.
• Compare exactly what’s included in quoted package prices; gear, bike hire, insurance, and test fees aren’t always bundled.
• If you’re 24 or older with no riding experience, most schools still recommend some riding background before attempting DAS.
• Keep an eye on the DVSA’s 2026 consultation outcomes if you’re planning a longer-term progression from A2 to full A.

Where this fits going forward

A1 in the UK offers genuine long-term flexibility, since it never expires and doesn’t force further progression. If your plans extend toward professional driving down the line, take a look at the driver section, browse current vacancies, or see who’s hiring among employers on FastDriver.eu, alongside our broader job guides. Our driving license in the United Kingdom and license eligibility pages provide a broader picture.

Declaration

This article is provided for general information only and does not constitute legal or professional advice. Fees, training requirements, and administrative rules can change; the DVSA’s 2026 consultation may lead to further reforms. Always confirm current requirements with the official UK sources before making decisions: the DVSA/GOV.UK. FastDriver.eu accepts no liability for decisions made based on this information.