Full Motorcycle Licence Explained
The full motorcycle licence – category A – is the top tier of UK motorcycle licensing. It removes every power and capacity restriction, so you can ride any motorcycle on the road with no limits on performance.
This is where the licensing ladder ends and the choice of bike truly opens up. Once you hold a full A licence, machines like the BMW R 1300 GS, Ducati Panigale, and Honda Africa Twin are all within reach.
What Is a Full Motorcycle Licence?
The full A licence is the UK motorcycle category that lets you ride motorcycles of any power output, with no restrictions.
It sits at the top of the tiered system, above the A2 licence (capped at 35kW) and the A1 licence (up to 125cc and 11kW).
Full A Licence at a Glance
Detail | Full A Licence |
Maximum power output | Unrestricted |
Engine capacity | Unrestricted |
Test bike requirement | At least 595cc and 50kW (around 67bhp) |
Minimum age | 21 (progressive access) or 24 (direct access) |
What Can You Ride on a Full Motorcycle Licence?
Any motorcycle you like. The full A licence carries no power ceiling, no capacity limit, and no power-to-weight restriction.
That covers everything from litre-class superbikes to large-capacity adventure tourers, cruisers, and touring flagships.
It also lets you carry a pillion passenger and ride on motorways without L plates, the same freedoms your A2 licence gave you – now with unlimited performance.
Two Routes to the Full A Licence
There are two ways to reach a full licence, and the right one depends on your age and the experience you already hold.
Direct Access Route
Take your theory test and both practical modules on a full-power motorcycle. The test bike must be at least 595cc, 50kW, and 180kg. No previous motorcycle licence is required.
Minimum age: 24.
Progressive Access Route
Hold a full A2 licence for at least two years, then pass Module 1 and Module 2 on a full-power motorcycle. A fresh theory test is not normally required when you upgrade from A2 this way.
Minimum age: 21.
The progressive route rewards riders who have built genuine road experience on an A2 machine. In practice, if you passed your A2 test at 19, you can progress to the full A licence at 21.
Top Choices for the Full A Licence
With every restriction lifted, the whole range is open to you.
From Honda, the Africa Twin is a benchmark large-capacity adventure tourer, while the Gold Wing sits at the top of the touring class for long-distance comfort.
BMW offers the R 1300 GS, the definitive adventure machine, alongside the S 1000 RR for riders chasing outright sports performance.
Ducati brings its full sporting heritage into reach, from the Panigale superbike to the Multistrada for those who want performance with touring ability.
Difference Between A2 and Full A Motorcycle Licence
The A2 licence caps power at 35kW and requires bikes to meet a power-to-weight limit. The full A licence removes both, giving access to unrestricted motorcycles of any size.
Both licences require CBT, a theory test, and two practical modules. The difference is the category of bike you take the tests on, and the freedom you hold once you pass.
Read our full guide to the A2 motorcycle licence.
The Tests You Need to Pass
Whichever route you take, the same practical standards apply.
Module 1 is an off-road test of handling and emergency skills, including manoeuvres and controlled braking. Module 2 is an on-road test lasting around 40 minutes, covering real-world riding and an independent ride section.
Direct access riders also need a valid CBT certificate and a motorcycle theory test pass before the practical tests. Progressive access riders upgrading from A2 do not usually need to repeat the theory test.
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Motorcycles at Vertu
The Honda School of Motorcycling and BMW Rider Training can help you prepare for your full A test. If you would like to discuss your options with us, our team at Vertu Motorcycles are always here to help. Get in touch with your local dealership today.
Ready to get on the road? Read our guide to motorcycle insurance.
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