New Bike Licence Rules – 2013

In January 2013 the rules to what you can ride, when you can ride it and what test you need to complete changed. If you agree with it or not, all new riders must comply to these new licence regulations. Whilst we are talking about restrictions, do car drivers have restrictions? NOPE!

New Motorcycle machine requirements for practical tests and restrictions on passing:

AM- Moped From 19th January 2013

FOR PRACTICAL TEST– Must be a solo moped with a maximum capacity of 50cc and top design speed of 30mph. Minimum age of candidate is 16 years old.

RESTRICTION on passing test – As above without the need for L plates and the ability to carry a passenger.

STAGE 1 OF STAGED ACCESS

A1 Light Motorcycle From 19th January 2013

FOR PRACTICAL TEST– Must be a solo motorcycle between 120cc and 125cc with a power output maximum of 14.6bhp, but must be capable of a speed of at least 55mph. Minimum age of candidate is 17 years old, and a theory test must be passed before applying for the practical test.

RESTRICTION on passing test– Maximum capacity of bike 125cc and 14.6bhp for a minimum of 2 years, however no longer need to display L plates and can carry passenger and ride on the motorway.

STAGE 2 OF STAGED ACCESS After holding A1 licence for a minimum of 2 years.

A2 Standard Motorcycle From 19th January 2013

FOR PRACTICAL TEST– Must be a solo motorcycle with a capacity of at least 395cc with a power output between 33bhp and 46.6bhp with a power to weight ratio not exceeding 0.2kW per kg. Minimum age of candidate is 19 years old.

NOTE- If the motorcycle has been restricted, the normal unrestricted power output must not exceed 70kW (approx 93bhp).

RESTRICTION on passing test– Max power of machine 47bhp for a minimum of 2 years.

STAGE 3 OF STAGED ACCESS After holding A2 licence for a minimum of 2 years.

A- Unrestricted From 19th January 2013

FOR PRACTICAL TEST– Must be a solo motorcycle with a capacity of at least 595cc with a power output of at least 40kW (approx 54bhp)

RESTRICTION on passing test– None. You can ride any capacity machine that you can afford and afford insurance for.

DIRECT ACCESSMinimum age from 19th January 2013 is 24 years old.

A- Unrestricted From 19th January 2013

FOR PRACTICAL TEST– Must be a solo motorcycle with a capacity of at least 595cc with a power output of at least 40kW (approx 54bhp). Candidate must pass a theory test before applying for the practical test.

RESTRICTION on passing- None. You can ride any capacity machine.