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Motorcycle License 2026: Categories, Prices, and How to Get Started

Motorcycle license 2026: AM, A1, A2, and A categories, costs, requirements, and how long it takes — plus how to choose your first bike.

Editorial Team
June 16, 2026
6
min read
Table of contents

You’ve decided to hit the streets on two wheels this summer. That’s a great decision. But the first step is getting your license. Getting a motorcycle license isn't rocket science, but it pays to know exactly which category you’re aiming for, how much it will cost this year, and how long the whole process takes. Let’s walk through it together. Clearly and without any unnecessary fluff.

First things first: we are not a driving school. We are the official importer of Royal Enfield motorcycles for the Czech Republic. We’re happy to help you with the things driving schools don’t usually cover—specifically, which bike to choose for your first ride so you can enjoy it from day one. We provide realistic price ranges, but you should always check the exact price list directly with your chosen driving school.

Motorcycle license categories: AM, A1, A2, and A

Motorcycle licenses are divided into four basic categories based on age and engine power. Here is a clear overview:

  • AM — mopeds up to 50cc (up to 45 km/h), from age 15
  • A1 — motorcycles up to 125cc, max 11 kW (≤ 0.1 kW/kg), from age 16
  • A2 — motorcycles up to 35 kW (≤ 0.2 kW/kg), from age 18
  • A — motorcycles with no power limit, from age 24 (or 20 after holding an A2 license for 2 years)

For many adult beginners, the A2 category is the logical gateway. It allows you to legally ride full-sized road bikes with up to 35 kW of power. A huge advantage is that after two years of riding, you can upgrade to an unrestricted A license by taking a supplementary test, without having to wait until your 24th birthday.

How much does a motorcycle license cost in 2026

The final price naturally varies depending on the specific category and the driving school itself. Typical price ranges for 2026 are as follows:

  • AM — 15,000–16,500 CZK
  • A1 — 12,000–16,500 CZK
  • A2 — 17,000–18,500 CZK
  • A (unrestricted) — 18,000–25,000 CZK
  • Upgrade from A2 to A — 4,000–12,000 CZK

In summary, the base price for driving schools typically ranges between 12,000 and 22,000 CZK. However, you should definitely account for additional expenses that are often not included in the advertised course price:

  • Medical examination: approx. 500–1,000 CZK.
  • Administrative exam fee: 700 CZK.
  • Refresher lessons: roughly 900–1,200 CZK per 45 minutes, if you want to get more practice right before your test.
  • Gear: helmet, gloves, sturdy footwear, and a suitable jacket. While you can rent some gear directly from the driving school these days, buying your own basic set will cost you at least 5,000 CZK.

What you need to get started

Fortunately, the initial paperwork is very simple. For group A2, you need to meet the minimum age requirement of 18, have a medical fitness certificate, a valid ID, and submit a formal application to a driving school. If you have permanent residency in the Czech Republic, or have been studying here for at least six months, the authorities will not require anything else from you.

Younger riders can, of course, start earlier. You can get group AM from age fifteen and A1 from sixteen. Each group has its own set age threshold, but the administrative process remains exactly the same.

How the training works and how long it takes

Standard training consists of three parts. It includes theory (traffic rules and vehicle mechanics), practical training, which takes place both on a closed course and in live traffic, and finally, the final exam. How many lessons you actually end up taking depends entirely on you and your instructor. Some people pick it up right away, while others need a few extra hours of practice. And that is perfectly fine.

How long does the whole process take? Usually, you should set aside a few weeks to two months. It depends on the driving school's capacity and the scheduled exam dates. Some driving schools now offer an express option for an extra fee, allowing you to finish in as little as three weeks. Our tip, however, is: don't rush unnecessarily. The hours spent in the saddle with an experienced instructor behind you are the most valuable thing you will take from the entire course into real-world traffic.

What to watch out for during the exam

During the practical exam, the most common mistakes are made on seemingly minor details that are easy to practice. Based on our experience and that of the instructors themselves, these are the main points:

  • Slow-speed technique: The slalom, figure-eight, and slow-speed riding strictly test how reliably you control the motorcycle at low speeds. This is exactly where most people fail on the training course today.
  • Looking around and turn signals: Examiners are extremely interested in whether you are actively checking your surroundings and signaling your intentions in time, rather than just whether you can mechanically stay on the road.
  • Braking: A smooth and confident stop is required without dangerously locking the front wheel. A hasty, panic-induced brake means the exam is clearly over.
  • Nerves: Most rookie mistakes actually stem from simple stage fright. A few extra refresher lessons right before the exam are therefore worth much more than anything else.

If things don't go perfectly the first time, it’s no big deal. Retakes are common these days, and after a few extra lessons, you’ll usually pass without any trouble.

Upgrading: from B to 125cc and from A2 to full A

You might already have a driver's license in your wallet. In that case, it's useful to know about two common situations.

Do you have a car license (group B)? Then, within the Czech Republic, you are automatically allowed to ride a motorcycle up to 125cc with a maximum power of 11 kW, provided it has an automatic transmission. It’s a very convenient way to start riding a smaller scooter without any additional training. There is a common myth that you must have held a "B" license for at least two years, but Czech law does not require this condition for 125cc scooters.

Already have an A2 and want more power? After two years of holding an A2 license, you only need to complete supplementary lessons or an exam to obtain a full A license without any power restrictions. This is why it’s worth viewing the A2 as a useful stepping stone rather than a necessary compromise.

You have your license. Now, what should your first motorcycle be?

This is exactly where we take over. You’ve passed your exam, and now you’re faced with a much more fun question: What will you actually be riding?

For your start, look exclusively for a machine that gives you the confidence you need. You need a low seat, reasonable weight, an upright riding position, and a smooth, easily predictable engine. That is exactly what our classic Royal Enfield 350s have to offer. Hunter 350 serves as a playful roadster for the city, Classic 350 charms as a pure classic with soul, and Meteor 350 works as an ideal laid-back cruiser. All these models fall into the A2 category without any restrictions. And if you are already drawn to touring and light off-road riding, the Himalayan 450also fits comfortably into the A2 category.

We have written a detailed guide on how to choose the right one and what each series can do for you in our Royal Enfield for A2guide. And do you know the absolute best way to make a final decision? Simply sit on the bike. Schedule a test ride with us, and we guarantee you will feel that special connection within just a few minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a motorcycle license cost?

In 2026, the base price ranges on average from approximately 12,000 to 22,000 CZK, depending on the license category and the chosen driving school. A1 courses cost roughly 12,000–16,500 CZK, the A2 category 17,000–18,500 CZK, and the unrestricted A license ranges between 18,000 and 25,000 CZK. Always add the cost of a medical exam, the municipal examination fee (700 CZK), and protective gear to this amount.

How long does it take to get a motorcycle license?

Usually, set aside a few weeks to two months, depending on the driving school's capacity and your own personal pace. Some driving schools offer express courses for an extra fee, with completion in as little as three weeks. The total duration is always primarily influenced by the number of required rides and available exam dates.

What do I need for a motorcycle license?

The first step is to meet the minimum age requirement for the specific category (e.g., 18 for A2), obtain a medical fitness certificate, provide proof of identity, and submit an official application to a driving school. After that, all that remains is the theory, practical training in traffic, and the final exam.

What motorcycles can I ride with a category B license?

With a category B license, you are permitted to ride a motorcycle in the Czech Republic with an engine capacity of up to 125 cc, a maximum power output of 11 kW, and an automatic transmission. The commonly cited requirement of having held a category B license for two years does not apply to 125 cc scooters; you can start riding immediately. For machines with a manual transmission or higher engine capacity, you will need a category A1, A2, or full A license.

Have you passed your test and are now choosing your very first motorcycle? Stop by for a test ride. We would be happy to advise you based on exactly how and where you plan to ride.