To get the A2 licence directly, you must be at least 18 years old.

Restricting a motorcycle's power for the A2 licence is a common practice to allow riding more powerful bikes. However, there are clear regulations for this:

A motorcycle may only be restricted for the A2 licence if its original power output does not exceed twice the permitted post-restriction power of 35 kW (48 hp), i.e. no more than 70 kW (95 hp). This means a motorcycle with an original power output of more than 95 hp may not be restricted down to the A2-compliant 48 hp.

This regulation is meant to ensure that, even after restriction, the motorcycle has an appropriate power-to-weight ratio and isn't too heavy for its reduced power, which could otherwise compromise riding safety.

When restricting power, the motorcycle's output is limited through technical modifications. There are various technical solutions for this, such as:

• Limiting the throttle travel,
• Modifying the engine control electronics,
• Adjusting the intake system or the exhaust system.

Once restricted, the motorcycle must be inspected and approved by an officially recognised testing organisation such as TÜV or DEKRA. The modifications must be entered into the vehicle registration documents, and the rider must carry the corresponding certificate while riding.

It's therefore important to check before buying a motorcycle whether restricting it for the A2 licence is technically possible and legally permitted.

No, it's not possible to get an A2 licence without a test. The A2 licence is a standalone licence category that requires both a theory and a practical test. However, when upgrading from category A1 to A2, under certain conditions the theory test can be waived if the A1 licence was first issued no more than two years ago. The practical test, however, is required in every case, to ensure that riders have the necessary skills to safely operate motorcycles in the corresponding power category in traffic.

Yes, you can get the A2 licence even without prior experience or holding another licence category. The requirement is that you've reached the minimum age of 18. You'll then need to take both the theory and practical tests and complete all required training hours at the driving school. The training prepares you to ride motorcycles with a power output of up to 35 kW (48 hp), and once you pass the test, you're authorised to ride such motorcycles.

To get the A2 licence without a theory test, you must already hold an A1 licence and have held it for at least two years. You can then obtain the A2 licence through a practical test alone, without having to retake the theory test. This rule is based on the assumption that your experience with category A1 has already given you basic knowledge and skills in handling motorised two-wheelers.

For the upgrade from an A1 licence to an A2 licence, a new first aid course is generally not required, provided you already have valid proof of a completed first aid course from when you first obtained a licence. The first aid certificate has no legally defined expiry date and therefore remains valid for all further licence categories.

You should start the A2 licence once you're at least 18 years old and already want to ride motorcycles with up to 35 kW of power. If you already hold the A1 licence and have gathered at least two years of experience, you can obtain the A2 licence through a practical test. If you don't yet have a motorcycle licence, you can start directly with A2 from age 18, which saves you time and money in the medium term, since you don't have to get A1 first.

A motorcycle for the A2 licence may have a maximum power output of 35 kW (roughly 48 hp). Additionally, the power-to-weight ratio must not exceed 0.2 kW/kg.