Motorcycle licence in Tallinn: AM, A1, A2 and A category — what’s the difference
Getting a motorcycle licence starts with choosing the right category — and it’s not always obvious. AM, A1, A2 and A category licences differ significantly in age requirements, power restrictions and riding rights. Here we explain what each category means, who it suits and how to progress step by step to a higher category.
AM category licence: moped from age 14
The AM category is the entry-level motorcycle licence, covering the lowest-powered vehicles. It gives the right to ride mopeds and scooters with an engine capacity of up to 50 cm³.
Key facts:
| AM category | |
|---|---|
| Engine capacity | up to 50 cm³ |
| Minimum age to start training | 14 years |
| State exams | from age 14 |
| Training | 24 theory + 12 riding hours |
Learners under 15 require written consent from a legal guardian to obtain riding rights.
To get an AM category licence, a first aid course must be completed. One important detail: if you already hold a licence in any other category, AM category riding rights are granted automatically — no separate application needed.
Who is the AM category for? Young people from age 14 who want to get around independently — to school, training or friends — without relying on public transport.
Note: If you were born before 1994, you are legally permitted to ride a moped without a licence.
A1 category: your first real motorcycle
The A1 category is designed for young and beginner riders. It allows you to ride lightweight motorcycles with a maximum power output of 11 kW and a relatively low weight. Scooters and mopeds are also typically included in this category.
Key facts:
| A1 category | |
|---|---|
| Maximum power | 11 kW |
| Engine displacement | ≥ 125 cm³ |
| Minimum age to start training | 16 years |
Кому подходит категория A1 в Эстонии? Начинающим с 16 лет, которые хотят начать езду на мотоцикле с небольшой и легко управляемой машины, прежде чем переходить к более мощным.
Who is the A1 category for? Beginners from age 16 who want to start motorcycling on a smaller, more manageable machine before moving on to more powerful ones.
A2 category: for the more experienced rider
The A2 category is aimed at more experienced motorcyclists. It allows riding motorcycles with a maximum power output of 35 kW. The A2 category restricts certain types of motorcycles — for example machines with a specific engine type or suspension setup.
Key facts:
| A2 category | |
|---|---|
| Maximum power | 35 kW |
| Engine displacement | ≥ 400 cm³ |
| Minimum age | 18 years |
| Course registration | from age 17.5 |
Who is the A2 category for? Riders from age 18 who have moved past the beginner stage and want to ride a more powerful machine — but aren’t yet ready for the fully unrestricted A category.
A category: full freedom on any motorcycle
The A category is the highest motorcycle licence available. It allows you to ride any motorcycle with no power or engine capacity restrictions whatsoever.
Key facts:
| A category | |
|---|---|
| Power restrictions | none |
| Engine capacity restrictions | none |
| Age | from 24 years |
| Or | from 20 years, if A2 category licence has been held for at least 2 years |
Who is the A category for? Experienced riders who want to ride without any restrictions — on any machine, on any road.
Category comparison at a glance
| AM | A1 | A2 | A | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Age | 14+ | 16+ | 18+ | 24+ (or 20+ after A2) |
| Engine capacity | up to 50 cm³ | ≥ 125 cm³ | ≥ 400 cm³ | no restrictions |
| Power | – | up to 11 kW | up to 35 kW | no restrictions |
| Suits | moped, scooter | small motorcycle | mid-power motorcycle | all motorcycles |
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between A1 category and A2 category? The A1 category allows riding motorcycles up to 11 kW from age 16. The A2 category allows up to 35 kW from age 18. A2 is aimed at riders with some experience, while A1 is the first step toward a real motorcycle.
Does an AM category licence give the right to ride a motorcycle? No. The AM category only covers mopeds and scooters with an engine capacity of up to 50 cm³. A motorcycle requires at least an A1 category licence.
Can you go directly from A2 category to A category? Yes — if you have held an A2 category licence for at least 2 years, you can apply for the A category from age 20. Without a prior A2 category, the minimum age is 24.
How many hours does motorcycle training take? For the AM category — 24 theory hours and 12 riding hours. For other categories, the number of hours depends on the specific school and curriculum — ask when registering.
Do I need a separate AM category licence if I already have a category B licence? No. If you already hold a licence in any category, AM category riding rights are granted automatically — no separate application is required.
Choose the right category and get started today
The right category depends on your age, experience and the type of motorcycle you want to ride in the future.
Want to find out which category suits you, or check the nearest course dates and prices? Get in touch — we’ll help you find the fastest and most convenient path to your motorcycle licence.
