A2 motorcycle licence in Paris in 2026: circuits, driving schools and new features

The A2 licence in 2026: what changes in Paris

The A2 licence is the mandatory entry into the motorcycle universe for any adult in 2026 (minimum age 18). It authorizes driving motorcycles whose power does not exceed 35 kW (47.5 hp) and whose weight/power ratio does not exceed 0.2 kW/kg. After 2 years of practice, the holder can access the full A licence (all cylinder capacities) via a bridging training of 7 hours.

In Paris, the demand for A2 licence has exploded since 2023: +42% of registrations in 2025 compared to 2022 according to Ministry of Interior figures. Several reasons: explosion of 125 scooter and light motorcycle fleet in the capital, attraction of young Parisians for two-wheeler urban mobility facing car traffic jams, development of short-term rental fleets (Ride, Troopy, Ecooltra).

The content of A2 training

Since the last 2020 reform, A2 training includes: a motorcycle-specific theoretical exam (ETM - Motorcycle Theoretical Exam) distinct from car ETG, a minimum 20-hour practical training including 12 hours on platform and 8 hours on public road, two practical exams (platform then circulation).

ETM is mandatory since 2020 even if you already have the car code. It includes 40 motorcycle-specific questions (equipment, motorcycle physics, cornering behavior, etc.). Rate: €30 at an approved operator (SGS, La Poste, Code'nGo). Success rate in 2025: 69% in Paris.

Platform training circuits in Paris and Île-de-France

Parisian driving schools do not always have their own circuit. They rent slots on approved tracks in Île-de-France. The main tracks used in 2026: Lognes circuit (77), Linas-Montlhéry circuit (91, the most renowned), Rungis track (94), Rungis-Chevilly-Larue track, Carrières-sous-Poissy track (78).

Average distance from inner Paris: 20 to 50 km. Trip duration: 30 to 70 minutes. To take into account in organization: platform lessons last 2-3 hours and require leaving early to benefit from an available track. Some driving schools organize minibus shuttles to transport pupils and their equipment (helmet, gloves, jacket).

Average rates of A2 licence in Paris in 2026

Basic A2 package (20 hours): €1,050 – €1,450 depending on the school. This package generally includes: ANTS registration, theoretical ETM code, 20 hours of practical training (platform + circulation), 2 exam presentations. Equipment rental (helmet, jacket, gloves, boots): sometimes included, otherwise €50 to €150.

Additional hours: €55 to €75 (more expensive than car due to platform logistics costs). Parisian average of hours needed: 27 hours (so 7 additional hours). Real total budget: €1,450 – €1,900. Note that some schools offer intensive A2 packages over 5 days (budget: €1,900 – €2,400): expensive but allows quickly passing the licence without spreading over 3-4 months.

A2 exam centers in Île-de-France

Two main centers for motorcycle platform: Versailles (78) and Rungis (94). The Rungis center is more practical for Parisians in the East and South. Versailles for the West and North. The circulation exam takes place in an area close to the center (Versailles center or around Rungis/Thiais).

2025 success rate in these centers: Versailles 58%, Rungis 55% (on first presentation for the circulation event). Most candidates take both events in the same week to capitalize on mental preparation.

The bonus: A2 to full A transition in 2 years

After 2 years of A2 licence (no suspension, no interruption), the holder can move to the full A licence via a 7-hour training only. No exam, just a certificate. Average price in Paris: €280 to €380. This training has become an almost automatic step for bikers who have taken a liking to the practice.

Note: before 2020, it was 2 years of A2 licence AND a 7-hour training. Since 2023, this scheme remains in force but discussions are underway (not decided as of April 2026) to remove the additional training and move directly to A after 2 years of A2.

Mandatory equipment for the exam in Paris

Since 2016, mandatory equipment to take the exam (and to ride a motorcycle): CE-approved helmet, CE-certified motorcycle gloves (new since 2016), motorcycle jacket or coat, suitable trousers (no shorts or torn jeans), high shoes covering the ankle. Yellow vest recommended (not mandatory for the exam but mandatory in case of breakdown).

Motorcycle equipment budget in 2026 in Paris: from €200 (entry-level Decathlon kit) to €800 (pro quality comfort equipment). Many driving schools offer rental for the duration of training: €80 to €150. Good compromise to test before investing.

Tips for succeeding in the A2 licence in Paris

Choose a school that trains on modern motorcycles

New electric motorcycles (Zero Motorcycles, Super Soco) are progressively arriving at driving schools. If your project is to ride an electric motorcycle, train directly on this type of machine. The learning is different (no gearbox, different power).

Do not underestimate the platform

The platform is often the nemesis of Parisian candidates: the slowness required (slalom at 20 km/h), fine maneuverability, balance control, these are technical exercises that require practice. Plan at least 15 hours on platform before the exam, not the legal minimum of 12.

Train in Paris as soon as possible

Once the platform validated, do not stay in the suburbs: the circulation part of the exam can take place in dense urban conditions. The more you are comfortable in the city, the better. Ask your instructor for lessons in the heart of Paris (Bastille, République, Bercy, quays) and not only in quiet suburbs.

Find the best A2 motorcycle school in Paris

DevisPermis.fr references the best Parisian motorcycle schools with their success rates and rates. Request your free quote in 2 minutes and start your A2 training in the best conditions.