A2 license: Everything you need to know about motorcycle driving licenses

Since the creation of the A2 license became official in 2009, questions about this intermediate permit for riding motorcycles have persisted. In this article, we answer the most frequently asked questions about the A2 license.

The A2 license represents the intermediate step between the A1 permit, which you can obtain at age 16 and allows you to ride motorcycles and scooters up to 125 cc, and the A license, which authorizes you to ride any type of motorcycle without power or displacement limits.

What can you ride with the A2 license?

With the A2 permit, you can ride motorcycles of any displacement, since what matters is not the engine size, but the power and the power-to-weight ratio. The maximum allowed power is 35 kW (47 hp).

Many motorcycles with higher power are sold in versions limited to 35 kW to comply with this permit. However, you must consider two key conditions:

-The motorcycle can't be derived from a model with more than 70 kW (95 hp) in its original configuration.

-The power-to-weight ratio can't exceed 0.2 kW/kg.

This means you could ride, for example, a 1,000 cc motorcycle as long as it doesn't exceed 47 hp, weighs at least 386 lbs. (175 kg), and is not derived from a version with more than 95 hp.

Frequently asked questions about the A2 license and other permits

Can I get the moped permit if I am 14 years old?
No. Since September 1, 2010, the minimum age to obtain the AM permit is 15 years old.

Can you carry a passenger with the AM permit?
Yes, as long as you are at least 15 years old, as established by current regulations.

I have held the B permit for two years, can I ride a 125 cc scooter?
No. To validate the B permit for the A1, you must have held it for at least three years.

What tests must I take to obtain the A2 if I already have the B permit?
In that case, you must take all the tests except the common theory test. Having the B license doesn't mean you have the A1. It only allows validation after the three years of experience mentioned above.

I have held the A1 for more than two years and want to obtain the A2, do I need to take a theory and practical exam?
No. If you already have the A1 for more than two years, you only need to pass the road test.

When will I be able to ride motorcycles of any power if I already have the A2?
You must have at least two years of experience with the A2 license. After that, you will need to pass a psychotechnical exam and complete a mandatory training course to obtain the A permit.

What happens if I do not take the psychotechnical exam and the course after two years with the A2?
You will simply keep the A2 license and will not be able to access the A until you complete both requirements.

Can I ride a high-displacement motorcycle with the A2?
Yes, as long as it doesn't exceed 35 kW, meets the maximum power-to-weight ratio, and is not derived from a version over 70 kW. For example, you could ride a limited 1,000 cc motorcycle if it weighs at least 386 lbs. (175 kg) and is not derived from one with more than 95 hp.

Can I ride any type of scooter with the A2 license?
Almost all scooters available in the Spanish market comply with the A2 limitations. However, there are exceptions such as the Gilera GP800 or the Suzuki Burgman 650, which do not offer restriction kits and therefore can't be ridden with this permit.

Meanwhile, brands like Honda or BMW have offered restriction kits for models such as the BMW C 650 Sport, BMW C 650 GT, or the Honda Integra 750 and X-ADV, making them suitable for the A2.

How much time do I have to take the next opportunity if I fail a test?
You have a maximum of six months from the first call. If you do not take the test within that period, your file will be canceled and you will have to start over.

Can I choose the date of my motorcycle exam?
No. Currently, the exam date is assigned by the DGT. You can't choose the day you will take the exam.

What type of motorcycle will I use if I take the test through a driving school?
Driving schools can keep for a maximum of ten years the motorcycles they had registered before the regulatory reform. If they replace them, they must be motorcycles of at least 400 cc and up to 35 kW of power.

Can I take the A2 license exam with my own motorcycle?
Yes, you can, as long as the motorcycle meets all the requirements set by the DGT: it must have a minimum displacement of 400 cc, be limited to a maximum of 35 kW, comply with the power-to-weight ratio, and have the mandatory elements (such as side protections and signaling).

It must also have valid insurance and complete documentation.

How many opportunities do I have to take the exam with the same fee?
You have two opportunities for each fee paid, both for the maneuvering test and the road test. If you fail both, you will have to pay again to continue the process.

What happens if I pass the theory test and do not pass the practical?
The theory part is valid for two years. During that time, you can take the practical tests without having to repeat the theory exam.

How long does it take to get the A2 license?
It depends on the province and the method chosen (driving school or independently). Under normal conditions and without failures, you can obtain the license within one to three months.

How much does it cost to get the A2 license?

The price to obtain the A2 license can vary greatly depending on the city and the chosen method, but these are the approximate ranges for 2025.

Through a driving school: The average price ranges between 700 and 1,200 euros. This amount includes registration, theory and practical classes, exam fees, and use of the motorcycle for the tests.

Some driving schools also offer packages with extra classes or a second chance guarantee.

Independently: If you decide to take the test without a driving school, the costs can be reduced to about 300 or 400 euros. However, in addition, you will need to rent a motorcycle that meets the DGT requirements, purchase specific insurance, and pay the exam fees.

You will also have to handle all the paperwork with the Traffic Department, which requires more personal and logistical involvement.

In both cases, keep in mind that if you fail any of the tests and need to retake them, there will be additional costs, both for renewing the file and for new practical classes, if needed.

The best-selling and recommended motorcycles for the A2 in 2025

Choosing the right motorcycle for the A2 license is not easy, but to help you, we have selected four outstanding models, each representing the best in its segment: scooter, naked, trail, and sport, all among the best-selling in Spain and fully compatible with this permit.

Scooter: Zontes 368G
This crossover scooter has made a strong entry into the A2 market. It offers a modern and aggressive design, great storage capacity, very luxurious equipment, and surprising touring performance for its displacement.

It is one of the most complete options in the A2 segment and an example of the qualitative leap of new Chinese brands.

Naked: KTM Duke 390
One of the most popular naked bikes among A2 users. Lightweight, very agile, with a lively engine and a high-level chassis. Its radical look, multitubular frame, and digital instrumentation make it stand out among rivals for its dynamism, equipment, and performance. Ideal for those seeking sporty sensations from day one.

Trail: Voge 650DSX
One of the most complete limitable trail bikes on the market, heir to the pure A2, 525 DSX. It offers top-level equipment, with saddlebags, screen, TFT instrumentation, and adjustable suspensions, and excellent performance both on and off the road.

It is an ideal option for those seeking a versatile motorcycle with a travel spirit.

Sport: Honda CBR 500R
Within the A2 segment, it is one of the best-selling and most versatile sport bikes. Its sport-touring look, mechanical balance, and reliability make it one of the most desired motorcycles by novice riders.

In addition, it has good aerodynamic protection and a noble performance, ideal for learning without scares.

Special mention: Yamaha MT-07 (restricted)
It is not a strict A2 motorcycle, since its original power exceeds 70 kW, but when restricted to 35 kW it meets the legal requirements and remains the best-selling naked bike on the market. Fun, balanced, and very versatile, it is the favorite choice of many users looking for a motorcycle for long trips, even after obtaining the A license.