The answer in one sentence: in the Netherlands, there are three categories of motorbike licences - A1, A2 and A.
They differ in engine power, age limit and experience requirements.
At Xpress driver training We will help you determine step by step which driving licence suits you so you can hit the road safely and according to the rules.
Table of contents
What is the A1 driving licence?
The A1 driving licence is the first step in motorcycling.
- You may ride light motorbikes with up to 125 cc and 11 kW output.
- The minimum age is 18 years.
- You have to pass both a theory exam and two practical exams (AVB and AVD).
This driving licence is popular with young people who are just starting out and want to gain experience.
👉 You can find more information at our motorbike driving licence page.
What is the A2 driving licence?
The A2 driving licence is intended for medium-duty engines.
You may drive a motorbike of up to 35 kW power.
You can get A2 in two ways:
- directly from 20 years, or
- as step up After two years of experience with A1.
In short, the A2 licence is the ideal intermediate step for those who want to ride heavier motorbikes but do not yet meet the requirements of A.
What is the A licence?
The A licence is the highest category.
With that, you may all engines without restrictions boards.
You can get A in two ways:
- Step-up variant: After two years of A2 experience.
- Immediately: from 24 years with no previous category.
The exam consists of vehicle control (AVB) and traffic participation (AVD).
At Xpress driver training, we prepare you in a hands-on way so you go into the exam with confidence.
Which motorbike category suits your age?
| Age | Driving licence | Engine power |
|---|---|---|
| 18 years | A1 | max. 11 kW |
| 20 years | A2 | max. 35 kW |
| 24 years | A | unlimited |
This table shows how to progress step by step.
Many students start with A1 and build up their experience so that they can easily progress to A2 and A later on.
Do you have to do theory again with each category?
No, not usually.
If you already have a valid motorbike licence (e.g. A1), then when you switch to A2 or A no new theory exam to do.
You only retake practical exams.
Moreover, if you already have a car licence, you may start practical lessons for the motorbike right away.
How long does it take to get a motorbike licence?
It depends on your experience and learning pace.
On average, students have 15 to 25 lessons needed.
Those who drive more often per week often make it faster.
At Xpress driver training, we plan together a lesson frequency that suits your schedule.
Frequently asked questions
1. Can I start A directly without A1 or A2?
Yes, you can if you are 24 years or older. You will then immediately take the exam for the full A licence.
2. How many practical exams do I have to take?
Two: the AVB exam (vehicle control) and the AVD exam (traffic participation).
3. Is the A licence valid internationally?
Yes, all European countries recognise the Dutch A licence.
At Xpress driver training we guide you from A1 to A, with personal attention and professional guidance.
Want to know which driving licence is best for you? Check out our motorbike driving licence training and schedule a trial lesson.
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