In the Netherlands, the minimum age to get a motorcycle license depends on the category of the motorcycle:
- A1 license (light motorcycles up to 125cc and 11 kW power): Minimum age is 18 years. You can take the theory exam from age 17 and start practical lessons after passing the theory exam or if you have a car driving license. Practical exams can be taken from age 18
- A2 license (medium power motorcycles up to 35 kW): Minimum age is 20 years. If you have held an A1 license for at least 2 years, you can take the A2 practical exam from age 19
- A license (heavy motorcycles with no power limit): Minimum age is 21 years for direct access with restrictions (code 80 applies, limiting you to A2 motorcycles for a period), or 24 years for direct full access without restrictions. Also, from age 22, you can upgrade to A if you have held an A2 license for at least 2 years
To summarize:
License Category| Minimum Age| Notes
---|---|---
A1 (light motorcycle)| 18 years| Theory exam from 17, practical exams from 18
A2 (medium motorcycle)| 20 years| Can start at 19 if held A1 for 2 years
A (heavy motorcycle)| 21 years (with restrictions) or 24 years (full access)|
Code 80 restriction applies if licensed at 21
Therefore, you must be at least 18 years old to get a motorcycle license for a light motorcycle in the Netherlands, with higher ages for more powerful motorcycles
