German Driving Licence Category A (Unrestricted Motorcycles) – General Guide 2025

Introduction
Category A is the highest level of motorcycle licensing in Germany. It allows you to ride all motorcycles, regardless of engine size or power, and also to drive trikes with a power output of over 15 kW. As of 1 April 2025, the theory-question bank was updated and a fully digital assessment system was adopted for the practical test, as part of a broader European plan to modernise driving licences and prepare the smartphone-based digital version. (DEGENER Verlag Onlineshop, ADAC)

What is Category A?

• Vehicle scope: All motorcycles with no displacement or power limits, plus trikes with power > 15 kW.

• International use: Recognised directly across the EU, and in most countries worldwide when accompanied by an International Driving Permit. (ADAC)

Two routes to obtain the licence

Route | Minimum age | Simple explanation

• Direct access | 24 | Full training + theory and practical tests on a motorcycle ≥ 50 kW.

• Staged route (Stufenführerschein) | 20 | Hold A2 for two years, then a shortened course + practical test only.

The minimum age may be reduced to 21 for riding powerful trikes if the full theory and practical course is completed. (ADAC)

Administrative requirements

Requirement | Details

• Proof of residence | Registered address in Germany + valid ID

• First-aid course | 9 units; certificate valid without a time limit

• Eyesight test | With an eye doctor or an optician

• Additional medical check | Requested by some offices for direct access above 50

• Biometric photo + authority fees | €40–€70 depending on the state

Driving school training programme (Fahrschule)

Training element | Direct access | Upgrade A2 → A

• Basic theory | 12 general lessons + 4 “motorcycle” lessons | Usually exempt after two years’ experience

• Regular practice lessons | 15–25 hours (set by the instructor) | Often 7–12 hours

• Mandatory special rides (Sonderfahrten) | 5 rural + 4 motorway + 3 night | 3 + 2 + 1 for upgrades

Theory test (2025 update)

• 30 questions (20 general + 10 motorcycle-specific).

• Maximum error limit: 10 points.

• 9 new image-based questions showing real road situations were added. (MOTORRAD)

• Languages: German plus 12 other languages, including Arabic.

• Fees: TÜV/DEKRA around €25; the driving school may charge €80–€160 for presentation/administration. (ADAC)

Practical test (OPFEP system)
Total duration: 70 minutes (60 minutes for upgrades). It includes:

• A quick vehicle check.

• Core manoeuvres (slow-speed balance, obstacle avoidance, emergency braking).

• Urban, rural and motorway riding.

• Detailed feedback via a digital protocol handed over immediately. (MOTORRAD)

One serious mistake — such as crossing a solid line or failing to yield — leads to immediate failure.

Expected costs for 2025

Item | Range (€)

• Driving school base fee: 500–900

• Learning materials: 60–120

• Practical lesson: 50–85 × number

• Sonderfahrten: 700–1,050

• Theory test (admin + fees): 80–167

• Practical test: 195–443

• First aid + eyesight test + photos: 40–80

• Estimated total: 1,800–3,500

Costs are higher in big cities such as Munich and lower in many eastern and northern states.

Validity and digital updates

• The licence card is valid for 15 years, after which it is replaced administratively without a new test.

• The EU is working on rolling out a smartphone-based digital driving licence; a pilot issue in Germany is expected in 2026. (ADAC)

Common exam mistakes

• Not doing a shoulder check before changing lanes.

• Braking too late during emergency manoeuvres.

• Exceeding 30 km/h in residential areas during the free-ride part.

• Touching cones in the slow-balance course.

Tips for applicants

• Choose a motorcycle-focused driving school with a large manoeuvring area.

• Invest in proper protective gear; examiners may stop the test if it does not meet requirements.

• Schedule a full 70-minute mock session shortly before the exam to train time pressure.

• Update your theory-question app after each semi-annual change to match the 2025 version.

Conclusion
Category A gives you the freedom to ride any motorcycle across Germany and Europe, but reaching it requires strict training and testing standards. By knowing the current rules, preparing well, and keeping up with upcoming digital changes, you ensure a safe and responsible start in the unrestricted motorcycle world.

Editorial note
The writers and editors aim to provide accurate information through extensive research and multiple sources. However, errors may occur or some details may remain unconfirmed. Please treat this as initial guidance and always consult the competent authorities for confirmed information.