A1 vs A2 vs A: Dutch motorcycle licenses explained

The short version

• A1— light motorcycles. From age 18. Up to 125 cc and 11 kW.
• A2— mid-weight. From age 20. Up to 35 kW.
• A— unrestricted. From age 24, or 22 if you’ve held A2 for 2 years.

Important: the CBR motorcycle theory exam is identical for all three. Pass it once and your certificate is valid for any A-tier license you later take the practical for, within 18 months.

A1 — Light motorcycles

• Minimum age: 18
• Engine: max 125 cc
• Power: max 11 kW (≈15 hp)
• Power-to-weight: max 0.1 kW/kg
• Bikes like the KTM 125 Duke, Honda CB125R, Yamaha MT-125

If you already hold a B (car) license obtained before 19 January 2013, you can ride an A1 motorcycle in the Netherlands without taking the A theory or practical. After that date, you need the full A1 process.

Full details: A1 motorcycle licence guide.

A2 — Mid-power motorcycles

• Minimum age: 20
• Power: max 35 kW (≈47 hp)
• Power-to-weight: max 0.2 kW/kg
• Cannot have been derived from a bike with more than 70 kW (no de-restricted superbikes)
• Bikes like the Kawasaki Ninja 400, Honda CB500F, KTM 390 Duke

Full details: A2 motorcycle licence guide.

A — Unrestricted

• Direct: minimum age 24
• Via progression: from 22 if you’ve held A2 for at least 2 years and pass a shortened practical (no second theory needed)
• No engine, power, or weight limit

Full details: Full A motorcycle licence guide.

Theory exam — same for all three

50 questions, 30 minutes, in three sections:

• 12 Kennis — knowledge of rules and signs
• 28 Inzicht — applied insight scenarios
• 10 Gevaarherkenning — hazard perception in 3-option photo format, 8 seconds each

Pass criteria: ≥35/40 combined kennis+inzicht AND ≥7/10 hazard. Both sections must pass independently.

Which one should you take?

• Just want to commute in town? A1 is usually plenty in Dutch traffic, where 50-km/h limits dominate.
• Want longer trips, touring?A2. A 400-500 cc twin runs Dutch motorways comfortably.
• Heavy bikes / sportbikes? A. Either wait until 24, or build via A2 from 20.

Cost overview (2026 approximate)

• CBR theory exam fee: €43.50
• If using an interpreter: + ~€118.50
• CBR practical AVB (manoeuvres): ~€135
• CBR practical AVD (road): ~€155
• Riding school lessons: typically €40–€60 per hour

Most first-time A2 candidates spend €1,500–€3,000 total including lessons.

Source: RVV 1990, Reglement Rijbewijzen, and CBR exam matrix. Always verify current fees at cbr.nl.