Moped and light quadricycle - AM
Steps to become a motorcyclist - moped or light quadricycle.
Category AM is a two-wheeled mechanically propelled vehicle, not capable of being manually propelled. The machine must have a cylinder capacity not exceeding 50 cc, in the case of an internal combustion engine, or a maximum continuous rated power of no more than 4 kilowatts in the case of an electric motor. The vehicle must have a design speed of at least 25 km/h but not more than 45 km/h.
Below is an overview of the steps you must take to become a qualified driver in your chosen license category.
To learn to drive a category AM (moped or light quadricycle) vehicle in Ireland, you must first prove your identity and your entitlement to a driving licence or learner permit. You should ensure that you have all the necessary personal protective equipment (PPE) and display L-plates on the front and back of a yellow fluorescent tabard worn over your outer clothing. You should also ensure that your moped is safe, roadworthy, insured and taxed, and has a valid Vehicle Registration Certificate.
The motorcycle theory test checks your knowledge of topics such as the Rules of the Road, risk perception, eco-driving, hazard awareness, and safe driving behaviour. The motorcycle theory test is computer-based and user-friendly. When you pass the motorcycle theory test you are issued with a theory test certificate. This is valid for up to two years and enables you to obtain a moped or light quadricycle learner permit within that time.
A category AM learner permit allows you to ride a moped or light quadricycle on all public roads, except motorways, for the purposes of learning to ride, and only after you have completed a full course of mandatory motorcyclist training known as Initial Basic Training. A learner permit is required even if you hold a full licence in another vehicle category, e.g. car, van or truck. Motorcyclists on a category AM learner permit are not permitted to ride higher-powered A1 or A2 motorcycles, or carry a pillion passenger.
All new first-time category AM learner permit holders are required to undertake structured learner motorcyclist training, known as Initial Basic Training (IBT). This is a course of 16 hours training with an Approved IBT Instructor covering basic driving and road safety awareness skills.
The category AM motorcycle driving test checks your knowledge of the Rules of the Road, your ability to drive competently and safely in accordance with those rules and with regard for other road users. The test takes about 60 minutes. It's a combination of questions to test your technical knowledge of your motorcycle, and a practical test of your safety equipment, driving skills and awareness.
When you pass the category AM motorcycle driving test you are issued with a certificate of competency. This is valid for up to two years and you must apply for a motorcycle driving licence within that time. This allows you to drive on all public roads, excluding motorways. As a novice motorcyclist, you must display N-plates on the front and back of a yellow fluorescent tabard worn over your outer clothing.
Passing your category AM driving test is just the first step in becoming a truly safe and competent driver. You should continue to ride your moped or light quadricycle carefully and build up your experience in different traffic, weather, lighting and road conditions. The Road Safety Authority offers a range of learning materials that will help you develop your road safety awareness and skills.
