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Minimum test vehicle requirements for mopeds

The moped you use for your practical test must:

• have an engine capacity not exceeding 50 cylinder capacity, and a maximum speed of 50 kilometres per hour which is approximately equivalent to 32 miles per hour
• be equipped with pedals to be able to drive the moped forward, if the moped was used before 1 August 1977

Minimum test vehicle requirements for motorcycles

If your motorcycle is less than 75 cylinder capacity it is not acceptable for the practical motorcycle test.

If you pass your practical test on a motorcycle with automatic or semi-automatic transmission, this will be recorded on your licence. Your full licence entitlement will be restricted to motorcycles in this category.

There are two different types of categories:

• category A1 (light motorcycle) - a solo motorcycle between 75 and 125 cylinder capacity, with a power output not exceeding 11 kilowatts
• category A (standard motorcycle) - a solo motorcycle between 121 and 125 cylinder capacity, capable of exceeding 100 kilometres per hour (62.1 miles per hour)

The BMW C1 motorcycle is not a suitable bike for the practical test as a category A licence will restrict you for a period of two years to riding bikes with a power output no more than 25 kilowatts (33 brake horse power) and a power to weight ratio no more than 0.16 kilowatts per kilogram. After two years you may ride any motorcycle.

Vehicles used for the accelerated access and direct access schemes can have an unspecified engine capacity of at least 35 kilowatts (46.6 brake horse power), with an unspecified speed.

Motorcycle with a sidecar

Only candidates with certain disabilities can use a motorcycle and sidecar combination for the test.

The requirements for a motorcycle with a sidecar are the same as for a solo motorcycle, but:

• categories A and A1 must not exceed a power to weight ratio of 0.16 kilowatts per kilogram
• passengers are not allowed to ride in the sidecar during the test

The licence you receive from this test will only allow you to use this combination of vehicle.

• Motorcycles you can ride

Speedometers on imported vehicles

Under the Construction and Use Regulations 1986 (regulation 35) any motor vehicle used on or after 1 April 1984 needs to be capable of indicating speed in both miles per hour and kilometres per hour. Vehicles used for a test must display speed in either miles per hour and kilometres per hour or miles per hour only. Vehicles displaying speed in kilometres per hour only are not acceptable. Overlays on speedometers are not allowed.

More useful links

• Motorcycle practical test explained

• About compulsory basic training (CBT)

• Clothing and weather protection

• Driving test fees

• Book a theory or practical test online Opens new window

• Find your nearest driving test centre for motorcycles Opens new window