What is the full A motorcycle licence?
The A licence is the highest category of motorcycle licence in France. It authorises riding any motorcycle with no power restriction. It is the ultimate licence for passionate two-wheel enthusiasts.
At what age can you obtain the A licence?
There are two routes to the A licence. The first is direct access from age 24: you take the A licence directly without having held an A2, but training is longer. The second is progression from A2: after holding the A2 for at least 2 years (or from age 20 if you obtained A2 at 18), you can access the A licence via a reduced training programme.
Direct access training (minimum age 24)
Direct access training includes theory (ETM) and a minimum of 20 hours of practical training. It is similar to A2 training but more intensive on aspects relating to powerful motorcycles. The cost is generally between €1,500 and €2,200.
Progression from the A2 licence
The 7-hour bridging course
If you have held the A2 for at least 2 years, you can access the A licence via a 7-hour supplementary course. This includes 3 hours off-road (manoeuvrability on powerful motorcycles) and 4 hours on-road. No new exam is required: only a training certificate is issued.
The cost of the bridging course
The 7-hour course costs between €300 and €600. It is a modest investment for unlimited motorcycle riding freedom.
What motorcycles can you ride with the A licence?
With the A licence, you can ride any motorcycle with no power restriction: sports bikes, roadsters, customs, trail bikes, tourers... Motorcycles of 1,000 cc and above, which often exceeded the 35 kW A2 limit, are now accessible.
How to get the right guidance?
DevisPermis.fr connects you with motorcycle schools offering A licence training across France. Fill in the form selecting "Full A Motorcycle Licence" and receive a personalised quote within 48 hours.
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Frequently asked
Your questions on this topic
Who can access the A motorcycle licence directly?
The A motorcycle licence in direct access is reserved for candidates aged 24 minimum in 2025. It allows riding any motorcycle with no power limit upon obtention. Training lasts 20 hours minimum (same as A2) but on a more powerful bike (over 35 kW). Below 24, you must take the A2 then bridge to A after 2 years of practice.
How long is the A2 to A bridge?
The A2 to A bridge lasts 7 hours of mandatory training with no new practical exam. It is accessible after 2 years of holding the A2 licence. Training breaks down into 2 hours of theory (accidentology), 2 hours off-road and 3 hours on-road. Cost: 250 to 450 euros depending on the school. The A licence is then delivered directly by the prefecture.
What tips to pass direct access A at 24?
Choose a school equipped with large displacements (over 600 cc and 70 kW). Plan 25 to 30 actual training hours (beyond the 20 legal hours) because power changes everything. Work specifically on emergency braking on wet ground and acceleration management exiting bends. Tip: systematically wear approved gear, required at the exam as in traffic.
How much does the direct access A licence cost?
The direct access A licence costs between 900 and 1,400 euros in the provinces and 1,300 to 1,800 euros in Paris in 2025. The price is about 200 euros higher than A2 due to powerful bike maintenance costs. Count 60 to 80 euros per extra hour. CPF can fund up to 1,500 euros, covering most of the initial package.
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