The A2-to-A bridging course: the conditions
To access the bridging course that upgrades you from the A2 to the full A licence (unrestricted motorcycles), you must: have held the A2 for at least 2 years, be at least 24 years old, and not have had a driving suspension during those 2 years. These conditions are unchanged in 2026.
What does the bridging course involve?
The bridging course is a minimum 7-hour training programme comprising 3 hours of circuit work (low-speed manoeuvrability, equipment, technical checks), 3 hours of on-road riding (motorway, dual carriageways, urban areas), and 1 hour of debrief. Upon completion, the A licence is issued without any additional exam, subject to a favourable assessment by the instructor.
The cost of the bridging course in 2026
The A2-to-A bridging course costs between €400 and €700 depending on the school and region. Since no additional exam is required, the cost is manageable. The course generally takes 1 to 2 days.
What motorcycles can you ride with the A licence?
The A licence (unrestricted motorcycle licence) allows you to ride any motorcycle with no power restriction, with a sidecar, and tricycles over 15 kW. It is the key to large-displacement bikes: BMW R1250GS, Ducati Panigale, Honda CB1000R, Harley-Davidson...
Differences between A2 and A
A2 licence: motorcycles limited to 35 kW (48 hp) and power-to-weight ratio ≤ 0.2 kW/kg, prohibition of de-restricted bikes exceeding 70 kW. A licence: no power restrictions. In practice, the majority of market motorcycles above 700 cc exceed the A2 limit.
Bridging course vs direct A licence
In France, direct access to the A licence (without going through A2) is possible from age 24. Direct A licence training requires a minimum of 20 hours + ETM + practical exam (CIRCUIT + ON-ROAD). The A2 → bridging → A route remains the most popular as it is more progressive and often less expensive overall.
How to get the right guidance?
Our partner motorcycle schools offer bridging course training across France. Get your quote on DevisPermis.fr.
Next step
How to get the right support?
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