The United Kingdom requires you to obtain the necessary licence before you can ride a motorcycle or scooter. When you start as a rider, you must  “L” plates on the front and back of your motorcycle or scooter. These plates signify that you’re a learner, so other drivers know to keep their distance from you. 

You’re not allowed to ride on motorways or carry passengers when you’re still classified as a learner. Once you obtain your rider’s licence, then you can start riding on motorways and carrying passengers. Furthermore, you can finally remove those “L” plates. 

There are three different types of motorcycle licences that you can obtain: A1 Licence, A2 Licence, and A Licence. If you are between the ages of 17 and 19, then you can apply for your A1 Licence. However, you are legally required to ride a motorcycle with an engine size of no larger than 125 cc. Its power output cannot be over 11kW either. But you can still carry passengers and ride on motorways when you get your A1 Licence.

Someone between the ages of 19 and 24 can apply for an A2 Licence. You will be required to take a practical test, even if you already have an A1 Licence. An A2 Licence allows you to ride motorcycles with engines that have up to 35kW of power output and a minimum of 395cc. These would be considered intermediate motorcycles as opposed to the beginner motorcycles of an A1 Licence.

If you have reached the age of 24 or higher, then you can apply for your full A (Direct Access) Licence. This licence entitles you to ride any size vehicle without restrictions.