The AM licence is the UK's starting point for two-wheeled riders. Available from age 16, it covers mopeds and small scooters with a top speed of up to 28mph. For many people, it's the start of a journey that often leads to a first motorbike.
If you're asking what the AM motorcycle licence covers, what bikes you can ride on an AM licence, or how to get one – this guide has everything you need.
What the AM licence covers
Detail | AM Licence |
Vehicle type | Mopeds and scooters |
Maximum engine size | Up to 50cc |
Maximum speed | 28 mph |
Minimum age | 16 |
Also covers | Small 3-wheelers under 50cc and below 4kW; light quadricycles under 350kg, top speed 28mph |
Q entitlement | Granted automatically – covers 2 or 3-wheelers with a top speed of up to 15mph |
What bikes can you ride on an AM licence?
The AM licence covers mopeds and scooters up to 50cc with a top speed of 28mph. These are sometimes described as 50cc learner bikes or learner scooters.
This category includes a wide range of twist-and-go scooters popular with urban commuters and younger riders. It does not cover motorcycles over 50cc. For those, you'll need to progress to the A1 licence or higher.
How to get your AM licence
The AM licence requires the same structure as every other UK motorcycle licence category: provisional licence, CBT, theory test, and both practical modules.
1. Apply for a provisional licence
From age 15 years and nine months.
Read our full guide to the provisional licence and CBT.
2. Complete CBT
Compulsory basic training must be completed before you ride on public roads. It's a training day, not a pass/fail test.
3. Pass the theory test
50 multiple-choice questions on the Highway Code, plus a hazard perception section.
Book via GOV.UK.
4. Pass Module 1 and Module 2
Both practical tests must be taken on a moped that meets AM category specifications.
Is the AM licence right for you?
The AM licence makes most sense if you want to start riding as soon as possible, or if a moped or scooter meets your daily needs. Moped licence running costs are low, insurance is generally more accessible for new riders, and these beginner motorbikes are approachable and practical to ride.
If you're 17 or over and want more power and range, the A1 licence may be a better starting point. It opens up the full 125 motorcycle category, which includes a much wider choice of bikes and gives you experience that counts towards future progression.
Progressing beyond the AM licence
The AM licence is a valid destination in its own right. For riders who want to move up, the next step is the A1 licence, available from age 17. This requires fresh CBT (if your current certificate has expired), a new theory test, and both practical modules on an A1-category bike.
Read our full guide to the A1 motorcycle licence.
Also in this series:
UK Motorcycle Licence Types Explained
Provisional Licence and CBT Explained
Return to the full motorcycle licence guide.
Read our guide to motorcycle insurance before you ride.
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