Motorcycle License in Germany 2026: Classes A, A2, A1 – Costs & Differences

Motorcycle License Classes at a Glance

Germany has four motorcycle licence categories. The right one for you depends on your age and the type of motorbike you want to ride.

The classes build on each other: if you have held A2 for at least two years, you can progress to Class A with a simplified upgrade test – no need to redo the full course.

Motorcycle License Costs in Germany 2026

The table below shows average minimum prices from the drive bee database (as of 2026). The minimum price typically covers the base fee, mandatory rides, and exam fees – additional practice lessons are on top depending on your skill level.

Source: drive bee analysis of publicly available price data from over 600 driving schools in Germany (as of 2026). Not all schools publish prices online – figures are indicative.

Mandatory rides for A1, A2, and A include at least one rural road drive and one motorway drive. Night drives and compulsory theory lessons are also required by law.

The Upgrade Path: Save Money by Progressing Stepwise

If you want to start riding young, the stepwise route can save you significant money compared to multiple full courses.

Typical upgrade path:

1. A1 from age 16 – full course, average cost €1,596
2. A2 from age 18 (after 2 years on A1) – upgrade test instead of full course, average €423
3. A from age 20 (after 2 years on A2) – upgrade test, average €430

Total cost via the upgrade path: approx. €1,596 + €423 + €430 = around €2,449 for all three classes combined.

By contrast, starting directly with A2 at 18 and upgrading to A at 20 costs approx. €1,609 + €430 = around €2,039 – saving the A1 step and roughly €400.

Direct entry to A2 at 18 is therefore often the most economical route for anyone who does not want to start at 16.

Which Class Is Right for Me?

You are 16 years old: Class A1 is the only option for powered motorcycles. Class AM covers mopeds and small scooters up to 45 km/h.

You are 18 years old: Class A2 is now available. If you can wait until then, you save time and money compared to A1 + upgrade.

You are 18–23 and want a powerful bike: Class A2 (max. 35 kW) is your entry point. After two years you can upgrade to A at a low additional cost.

You are 24 or older: You can go straight for the unrestricted Class A – no intermediate step required.

You just want to ride a small scooter occasionally: Class AM covers mopeds up to 45 km/h and is the most affordable option at an average of €644.

How Long Does the Training Take?

With regular lessons, a motorcycle licence typically takes 4 to 8 weeks.

Rough outline:

• Theory: 10–14 compulsory classroom hours depending on the class, plus self-study for the theory test
• Basic riding exercises: Compulsory manoeuvres on a test area (slow riding, slalom, emergency stops, avoidance manoeuvres)
• Mandatory rides: Rural road and motorway drives as required by law
• Practical exam: Basic manoeuvres + road ride at TÜV or DEKRA

Learners with previous moped or bicycle experience usually need fewer practice sessions to reach exam standard.

Protective Gear: Additional Costs to Budget For

The licence is only part of the total cost. Anyone riding a motorcycle needs appropriate protective equipment. The table below shows realistic entry-level prices for Germany:

Can I Get a Class A License Without a Car License?

Yes. Classes A, A2, and A1 are completely independent of Class B (car licence). You can obtain a motorcycle licence without ever having passed a car driving test.

However, if you already hold Class B, you still need to sit the full motorcycle theory exam – there is no exemption or credit transfer. Motorcycle-specific content such as riding dynamics and protective equipment is part of the exam syllabus.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a car licence to get a motorcycle licence in Germany?

No. Classes A, A2, A1, and AM are completely independent of Class B. You can start directly with a motorcycle class without ever having held a car licence.

What is the difference between going straight to A2 at 18 versus upgrading from A1?

Starting directly with A2 at 18 and upgrading to A at 20 costs approximately €1,609 + €430 = ~€2,039 total. Starting with A1 at 16 and upgrading stepwise costs approximately €1,596 + €423 + €430 = ~€2,449 – but gets you on the road two years earlier. Financially, direct entry to A2 at 18 makes more sense; practically, A1 at 16 is better if you want to ride sooner.

What is the total cost of a motorcycle licence including gear?

Budget approximately €1,950–2,400 for the driving school (Class A2 or A), plus €350–700 for basic protective equipment (helmet, jacket, gloves, trousers, boots). Total budget for getting started: €2,300–3,100.

How long does motorcycle licence training take?

With regular lessons (2–3 sessions per week), typically 4 to 8 weeks. Intensive courses are available at some schools and can be completed in 2–3 weeks.

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Compare driving schools in your city on drive bee – with real prices for all motorcycle classes and reviews from other learners.