The new features of the A2 motorcycle license in 2023

Since January 2023, the A2 motorcycle license has undergone several modifications to meet the new requirements for road safety and access to riding two-wheelers. This article outlines the changes made to the A2 license, including the new categories and restrictions based on age and the power of motorcycles.

What is the A2 motorcycle license?

First of all, it is important to remind what the A2 motorcycle license is. It is a specific driving license for motorcycles with a power not exceeding 35 kW (47.5 hp) and a power-to-weight ratio not exceeding 0.2 kW/kg. This license is primarily intended for young novice drivers or those with little experience in riding a motorized two-wheeler.

The new categories and age restrictions

With the reform of the A2 motorcycle license in 2023, certain categories and age restrictions have been rethought to take into account the developments in the motorcycle market and the needs of users.

The classification of motorcycles

• Group A1: it concerns light motorcycles with a power of 11 kW (15 hp) or less and a weight not exceeding 150 kg when empty. This group is aimed at drivers aged 16 years minimum.
• Group A2: it includes motorcycles with a power between 11 kW (15 hp) and 35 kW (47.5 hp), with a power-to-weight ratio not exceeding 0.2 kW/kg. Drivers must be at least 18 years old to access this category.
• Group A: it encompasses all other motorcycles, with no power or power-to-weight ratio limitations. To access this group, the minimum age is now set at 24 years in case of initial training, or 22 years if the candidate has two years of experience with the A2 license.

The age and access restrictions for the A2 motorcycle license

As mentioned above, the A2 motorcycle license is accessible to individuals aged at least 18 years. This age restriction has been established to allow young drivers to gradually gain experience on less powerful motorcycles before moving on to higher-performance models. The validity period of the A2 license remains at five years, after which holders can take the A license.

The new road code test specific to the motorcycle license

To improve the training of future motorcyclists, a new test related to the road code specific to motorized two-wheelers has been introduced. This test consists of 40 theoretical questions covering driving techniques, mechanics, appropriate road behavior, and mandatory equipment for motorcyclists.

The structure of the A2 motorcycle license exam

The A2 motorcycle license exam now consists of three distinct phases:

1. Learning: it includes theoretical and practical training provided by a driving school or an approved training center. The minimum duration of training is set at 20 hours for novice candidates, of which 8 hours are dedicated to traffic.
2. General theoretical test (ETG): it consists of a multiple-choice questionnaire of 40 questions focused on the road code specific to motorized two-wheelers. To obtain the A2 motorcycle license, the candidate must correctly answer at least 35 questions.
3. Practical tests: they consist of an off-road (platform) part and a road traffic part. Candidates must pass both tests to obtain their A2 motorcycle license.

The modifications to the progression towards the A license

Holders of the A2 license who wish to obtain the A category motorcycle license can now follow a specific training course of at least 7 hours. This course can be undertaken at a driving school or an approved training center and must necessarily include road driving sequences and real traffic conditions.

In view of the numerous changes made to the A2 motorcycle license since January 2023, it is crucial for future motorcyclists to stay informed about the new regulations and to choose training that suits their profile and needs. This update aims to improve road safety and to train responsible and experienced drivers from their access to riding motorized two-wheelers.