How to Get a Category A2 Driving Licence in Belarus?

If you’re looking for a “Category A2” motorcycle license in Belarus, it’s worth knowing upfront: Belarus’s driving license system does not have an A2 sub-category. Unlike the EU’s three-tier A1/A2/A structure, Belarus uses a two-tier system for motorcycles: A1 for light motorcycles and a single, unrestricted Category A for all other motorcycles. This guide explains honestly how Belarus’s motorcycle licensing actually works, so you know exactly what to apply for.

In Belarus, licenses are issued by the traffic police (GAI), part of the Ministry of Internal Affairs, following training and exams typically completed through a licensed driving school. Our driving license in Belarus and license eligibility pages are good starting points.

Why there’s no Category A2 in Belarus

The EU’s A1/A2/A structure, with its intermediate 35 kW power tier, was introduced across EU member states in 2013 as a road-safety measure to phase in access to more powerful motorcycles. Belarus’s licensing framework, closely aligned with Russia’s system in size and category structure, never adopted this specific EU three-tier model. Instead, Belarus uses a two-step approach: category A1 for light motorcycles and category A covering everything above it, gained either directly or by upgrading from A1.

What Belarus’s motorcycle categories actually look like

• Category A1: motorcycles with an engine capacity not exceeding 125cc and power not exceeding 11 kW, with a maximum speed of at least 90 km/h.
• Category A: motorcycles with no power or displacement restriction. Category A can be obtained directly by adult applicants or by upgrading from A1 after holding it for two years, without needing to retake exams.

Category A automatically includes the entitlement to ride A1-category motorcycles too.

Two routes to Category A in Belarus

There are effectively two paths:

• Direct entry: adults (18 and over, or holders of a Category B car license) can pass a practical exam and obtain Category A directly, without needing A1 first.
• Via A1 first: those without any existing license, including those aged 16–17, first obtain Category A1; then, after two years of holding it, they receive Category A automatically without retaking exams, upon submitting an application and a current medical certificate.

What does this mean in practice?

If you already hold a Category B (car) license, you can generally go straight to Category A by attending a driving school for retraining and passing a practical exam, with no A1-style restricted period required. If you have no prior license at all, you’ll need A1 first, then wait two years before Category A opens up automatically.

Theory and practical exams

The theory test for Category A typically consists of 10 questions, with no more than one error allowed to pass. The practical exam tests riding skills on a purpose-built maneuvering area.

Medical requirements

Applicants must provide a current medical certificate confirming fitness to ride before the license is issued or upgraded.

Validity

Belarusian driving licenses are generally issued for a fixed validity period, after which renewal is required. Confirm the current terms with the traffic police (GAI).

What if you’re used to the EU A2 system?

If you’re relocating to Belarus or converting a foreign license and you’re used to the EU’s A1/A2/A structure, be aware that there’s no direct Belarusian equivalent to A2. Your existing motorcycle license and experience would generally map to Belarus’s A1 or A category, depending on the vehicle specifications. Confirm the exact conversion process with GAI, as requirements may vary by country of origin.

Tips if you’re navigating Belarus’s motorcycle license system

• If you already hold a car (Category B) license, ask about the direct route to Category A via driving-school retraining and a practical exam.
• If you’re starting from scratch, Category A1 is your entry point, with Category A following automatically after two years.
• Keep your medical certificate current, since it’s required at each stage.
• Confirm the current exam format and fees with your local driving school or GAI office.

Beyond motorcycle licensing

Whatever category of vehicle you’re licensed to operate, if you’re exploring driving-related career opportunities, you can register in the driver section, explore vacancies, and see what employers are hiring for on FastDriver.eu, along with our guides on the jobs pages.

Declaration

This article is provided for general information only and does not constitute legal or professional advice. License categories, vehicle definitions, ages, medical standards, training requirements, and fees can change and may vary by case and by authority in Belarus. Always confirm the current rules with the official Belarusian government sources before making decisions. FastDriver.eu accepts no liability for actions taken based on this information.