Driving a motorcycle in Spain is not a matter of freedom, but also of responsibility and training. And, to guarantee the security of both motorists and other road users, General Directorate of Traffic (DGT) establishes a system of staggered permits that regulates what type of motorcycles each person can drive, depending on their age, experience and training.
This system consists of 4 different types of cards: A.M, A1, A2 and TO. Each allows motorcycles of different characteristics and demands to overcome specific tests.
The motorcycle card system in Spain is designed to offer progressive and safe access to the 2 -wheel world. From the cyclomotor to the superbikes, each card and motorcycle requires specific training and commitment. But, logically, it also opens the door to new sensations of freedom, adventure and mobility. That is clear.
Whether starting with a cyclomotor, a Naked, or with a great tourism to travel Europe, the most important thing is, without a doubt, to train well, practice with responsibility and enjoy the road with respect. Now, if you are thinking of getting the motorcycle card, obtaining another superior permit, or you simply want to understand how current regulations in Spain work, here we offer you a complete and updated guide.
Card AM: The first step.
He Card am It is the most basic of all and allows cyclomotor to drive up to 50 cc. These are vehicles with a maximum speed limited to 45 km/h, which are usually used in urban or rural environments for short displacements. Three wheel cyclomotor and light quadricycles, such as microcoches are also included in this permission.
This permit can be obtained from the age of 15, although until 18 it is not allowed to transport passengers. The process to achieve this is not complicated: it consists of a specific theoretical test on regulations related to cyclomotor and a closed circuit practice, where basic skills are evaluated such as maintaining balance, stopping accurately and making controlled turns.
The cost varies between 250 and the 400 eurosdepending on the car, and is a common option among adolescents or people who do not need more power in their day to day.
Card A1: Access to 125 cc motorcycles.
He permission A1 It is the following step and allows motorcycles to drive with a maximum displacement of 125 cc, a power of up to 11 kW (equivalent to some 15 hp) and a power/weight ratio not exceeding 0.1 kW/kg. It also authorizes motor tricycles up to 15 kW (20.1 hp).
It can be obtained from the age of 16 and requires the overcoming of 2 theoretical tests (one common on circulation standards and a specific motorcycle) and two practical motorcycle exams: one in closed circuit (technical maneuvers such as zigzag, emergency braking or low speed balance) and another in open circulation by public road, where the aspirant’s skills are valued in real traffic conditions.
A particularity of A1 is that those who already have the car card (B) For at least 3 years they are authorized to drive bikes up to 125 cc without the need to perform any additional exam. This measure was implemented in 2004 to facilitate urban mobility, and has caused a significant increase in scooters in cities such as Madrid, Valencia or Barcelona. However, this validation does not officially have the A1 card, which can be relevant if you want to move towards the A2 or rent motorcycles outside our country.
The price of Card A1if performed from scratch, it ranges from the 500 and the 800 eurosdepending on the number of practical classes contracted and if the first is approved.
Card A2: The door to half -displacement motorcycles.
He Card A2 It was introduced in Spain in 2009, in compliance with the European Directive 2006/126/EC, and allows motorcycles of up to 35 kW of power (some 47 hp), provided they do not exceed a power/weight of 0.2 kW/kg. Limited motorcycles that do not exceed 70 kW (95 hp) are also accepted.
This card is designed for users who want to drive motorcycles of greater displacement without even reaching the highest powers. It is the most popular among those who first access motorcycle motorcycles, naked, trail or mid -range sports such as the Kawasaki Z650the Honda CB500X wave Yamaha MT-07 (limited).
To get the A2 You have to be at least 18 years old. The process is similar to the A1with theoretical (common and specific) motorcycle exams and two practical tests, one in closed circuit and another in circulation. Although some people directly access the A2 Without going through the A1it is recommended to familiarize yourself with a 125 cc motorcycle before making the leap.
The price varies a lot: between 600 and 1,000 eurosdepending on the necessary number of classes, which in this case are usually more because motorcycles are heavier, they have marches and require a more technical domain.
Card A: For all non -restrictions
He Card a It is the last level and allows to drive any type of motorcycle, without power or displacement limits. To access it it is necessary to meet two conditions: be at least 20 years old and have been the holder of the A2 for a minimum of two years. That is, it cannot be obtained directly from scratch.
Unlike the rest of the permits, it does not require a traditional practical or theoretical exam. Instead, a 9 -hour mandatory training course must be carried out in a center authorized by the DGT. This course is divided into three blocks:
- 3 hours of theoretical trainingthat address aspects of security, equipment and defensive driving.
- 4 hours of closed circuit practicesfocused on advanced maneuvers.
- 2 hours of open circulation practicesunder the supervision of an instructor.
He Card a It is the simplest to obtain once you have the A2but it is also the most demanding in terms of maturity and responsibility, since it gives access to motorcycles of large displacement as Yamaha R1, BMW R 1300 GS either Ducati Multistrada V4.
The course price is between 250 and 400 euros.
As we can all imagine, the cost of getting a motorcycle card in Spain is not uniform. It depends on multiple factors, such as the Autonomous Community, the chosen car, the official rates, and, above all, the number of attempts to approve. Of course, the DGT exam rates in 2025 are located in 94.05 euros By call, including a first opportunity for each type of exam (theoretical, circuit, circulation).
To this we must add the price of the practical classes, which usually cost between 30 and 50 euros per session of 45 minutes. In many cases, especially in the A2at least 6 and 10 classes are recommended to present themselves.
Before deciding which motorcycle card is needed, it is convenient to reflect on the use that will be given to the motorcycle.
If only an economic solution for urban mobility is sought, perhaps it is enough with a 125 cc scooter that can be driven with the car card. But if the goal is to enjoy the world of the motorcycle on the road, travel or even make mountain routes, it is worth considering a A2 or even, in the medium term, the Card a.
It is also advisable to look for a motorcycle self -school to overcome your motorcycle exams. Many have instructors who are active motorists and offer a much more technical and realistic leadership approach. In addition, some have modern motorcycles and good protective equipment, which can make a difference in learning experience.
