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

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 licenses are divided into four basic categories based on age and engine power. Here is a clear overview:
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.
The final price naturally varies depending on the specific category and the driving school itself. Typical price ranges for 2026 are as follows:
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:
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.
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.
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:
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.