What is the minimum age for an A2 motorcycle licence in the Netherlands?

20. You can move up to full A two years later, at 22, through progressive access — or wait and take A directly at 24.

What can you ride with a Dutch A2 licence?

Motorcycles up to 35 kW (about 47 hp) with a power-to-weight ratio no higher than 0.2 kW/kg, and not derived from a machine with more than double that power (over 70 kW).

Do I need to retake the theory exam to go from A2 to A?

No. The CBR motorcycle theory exam is shared across A1, A2 and A. Upgrading from A2 to A via progressive access only requires a practical exam, not a new theory exam.

Can the A2 theory exam be taken in English?

Not directly — the CBR motorcycle theory exam is in Dutch. Book a CBR-listed interpreter or study in English so the Dutch wording is recognisable on exam day.

A2 Motorcycle Licence Netherlands — Requirements in English (2026)

The A2 is the mid-tier Dutch motorcycle licence and the most common starting point for adults — capped at 35 kW, available from 20, and the direct route to full A by 22. If you're past 20 and want a real motorcycle without waiting until 24, A2 is usually the answer.

A2 at a glance

Minimum age: 20
Bikes: up to 35 kW (~47 hp), power-to-weight up to 0.2 kW/kg, not derived from a machine over 70 kW
Exams: one theory exam (shared across A1/A2/A) + practical AVB and AVD exams
Upgrade: to full A at 22 via progressive access (practical exam only)

Who the A2 is for

A2 fits most adult riders: it covers the majority of mainstream and A2-restricted motorcycles, and at 22 — after two years holding A2 — you can upgrade to unrestricted A with only a practical exam. Many manufacturers sell A2-compliant or restrictable versions of popular bikes for exactly this reason.

The exams

You take the same CBR motorcycle theory exam as A1 and A candidates — 50 questions across knowledge, insight, and hazard perception. It’s conducted in Dutch, so either book an English interpreter or study in English first. Then you complete the practical AVB and AVD exams.

A2 vs A1 vs A

If you’re 18–19, start with A1. If you want no power limit and you’re willing to wait or upgrade, see full A. The complete breakdown: A1 vs A2 vs A.

Start your theory in English

DutchTheory prepares you for the exact CBR motorcycle theory exam in English. New to the process? Read how to get a Dutch motorcycle licence in English or try a free 5-question preview.

Licence categories follow EU Directive 2006/126/EC as implemented in the Netherlands. Always confirm current ages, limits and fees at cbr.nl and rdw.nl. DutchTheory is independent of CBR.