AM licence vs A1 licence
AM is the most basic licence for a moped (up to 50 cc and 45 km/h), available from age 15. A1 is one step up: motorcycles up to 125 cc and 11 kW from age 16. AM is enough for a small city scooter from a young age; if you want a proper motorcycle as soon as you're 16, skip AM and go straight to A1.
| Feature | AMAM Licence - Moped | A1A1 Licence - 125 cc Motorcycle |
|---|---|---|
| Minimum age | 15 years | 16 years |
| Authorised vehicles | Mopeds up to 50 cc and light quadricycles. | Motorcycles up to 125 cc and 11 kW. |
| Exam questions | 20 | 20 |
| Exam time | 20 min | 20 min |
| Max errors | 2 | 2 |
| Options per question | 3 | 3 |
Requirements and tests: AM vs A1
Moving from AM to A1 is more than one year of age (15 to 16). The AM is assessed with a specific theory test and a closed-track test, with no road test; the A1 adds the general test and a road test, and moves from mopeds to motorcycles up to 125 cm³ and 11 kW.
| Requirement | AM | A1 |
|---|---|---|
| Previous licence | No previous licence is required. | No previous licence is required. |
| Theory | Specific | General and specific |
| Practical | Closed track | Closed track and road |
| Fee | 94,05 € (2.1) | 94,05 € (2.1) |
| Validity (under 65 / from 65) | 10 / 5 years | 10 / 5 years |
| Age exceptions | — | — |
Data from RD 818/2009 and the DGT website, reviewed on 13 October 2026. Independent site, not affiliated with the DGT.
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Prefer to read first? Question bank: AM questions · A1 questions
AM Licence - Moped
Two- or three-wheeled mopeds and light quadricycles.
See syllabus & testA1 Licence - 125 cc Motorcycle
Motorcycles up to 125 cc and 11 kW.
See syllabus & testFrequently asked questions
What is the minimum age for each?
AM licence: age 15. A1 licence: age 16.
How is the DGT theory exam in each case?
AM: 20 questions, 20 minutes, max 2 errors. A1: 20 questions, 20 minutes, max 2 errors.
What vehicles can I drive with each licence?
AM: Mopeds up to 50 cc and light quadricycles. A1: Motorcycles up to 125 cc and 11 kW.
Which one should I get first?
If by age you can only access the AM (minimum age 15), start there and consider stepping up to the A1 when you reach 16. If you already have the age for both, going straight to the A1 is usually more cost-effective (one training, one exam, one fee) — the AM loses relative value if the A1 covers every vehicle you're interested in.
What is required for the A1 if I already hold the AM?
For the A1: No previous licence is required. Tests: General and specific theory test. Practical closed-track and road tests. The general theory test is waived if you hold a valid licence that required it or passed it within the last two years. For the AM: No previous licence is required. Check current conditions on the DGT website before enrolling.
What does the fee cost and how long is each licence valid?
Fee 2.1 for the AM: EUR 94.05 covering two attempts. Fee 2.1 for the A1: EUR 94.05 covering two attempts. Validity under 65: AM, 10 years; A1, 10 years. It may be shortened for medical reasons.