Age restrictions for Irish Motorcycle Licenses are an essential consideration for anyone looking to ride a motorcycle on the roads of Ireland. These restrictions are in place to ensure that riders have the necessary skills and experience to handle a motorcycle’s power and speed safely.
Depending on your license type, different age requirements are designed to cater to riders of varying levels of experience and ability. Understanding these age restrictions is essential for anyone looking to take up motorcycle riding, as they will determine the types of motorcycles you are allowed to ride and the conditions under which you can ride them.
Learner’s Permit Vest
Irrespective of what license you plan on getting, be prepared to wear one of these L vests. This is the same one that I use, and I have been riding with it for about eight months now. I can vouch for its quality and you can buy it from your local dealer or the following Amazon affiliate link.
In this article, we will explore the different age restrictions for Irish Motorcycle Licenses, the requirements for obtaining these licenses, and the safety considerations that all riders should consider. There is a separate article for Motorcycle Insurance in Ireland if you want to check that out.
Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced rider, this guide will provide you with the information you need to ride safely and legally on the roads of Ireland.
Age restrictions for Irish Motorcycle Licenses – A1 Licenses
To obtain an A1 license, which allows you to ride a motorcycle with an engine capacity of up to 125cc, you must be at least 16 years old. This license is ideal for beginners who are just starting with motorcycles. With an A1 license, you can ride a small motorcycle or a scooter, but you cannot carry a passenger or ride on a motorway.
Age restrictions for Irish Motorcycle Licenses – A2 Licenses
To obtain an A2 license, which allows you to ride a motorcycle with an engine capacity of up to 35kW, you must be at least 18 years old. This license is ideal for intermediate riders who have some experience with motorcycles. With an A2 license, you can ride a more powerful motorcycle, but it must have been power restricted to have an output of no more than 35kW.
You also cannot remove the power restrictions of the motorcycle during the first two years of holding the license. So say you have something like a restricted Bandit, maybe?
Now for the big bikes – A License
Finally, to obtain an A license, which allows you to ride a motorcycle with any engine capacity and power output, you must be at least 24 years old OR have held an A2 license for at least two years. The keyword is OR. Some people wrongly believe they always need to start from A1/ A2 even if they are older than 24.
This license is ideal for experienced riders riding powerful motorcycles on the open road. With an A license, you have no power restrictions and can carry passengers and ride on motorways.
How do I upgrade my A2 motorcycle license to an A license?
You need to pay and apply for an A-category learner’s permit. Once you have the permit, contact a motorcycle instructor. The instructor will need to get a code from the RSA, allowing the instructor to do the MODULE 5 progression for you. The code is generated only once you have applied for an A-category permit, so do that first.
Once you have passed the module 5 progression, return the new IBT certificate + full A2 license + A learner’s permit to the NDLS. They will send you a new A-category license in about ten days.
It’s important to note that the age restrictions for riding a motorcycle in Ireland are just one part of the licensing requirements. To obtain any category of a motorcycle license, you must also pass a series of tests, including a theory test, a motorcycle handling test, and an on-road test. You must also have a valid learner permit, complete a motorcycle training course, and meet specific medical requirements.
It’s also important to note that riding a motorcycle can be dangerous, especially for inexperienced riders. Read this to understand what not to do when you are on a learner’s permit. Therefore, taking motorcycle training seriously is essential, and always wearing the proper safety gear, including a helmet, gloves, and protective clothing. You should also be aware of the rules of the road and the hazards of riding a motorcycle, such as wet or slippery roads, blind spots, and other drivers who may not see you. By being responsible and following the rules, you can enjoy the freedom and thrill of riding a motorcycle in Ireland safely and legally.
You can read all about it on the RSA website of course.
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