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.
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Frequently asked
Your questions on this topic
How to upgrade from A2 to A motorcycle licence in 2026?
The A2 to A bridge is done after 2 years of A2 licence holding through a 7-hour training at a motorcycle school, with no practical or theory exam. Cost: 250 to 400 euros depending on region. It includes 2 hours theory, 2 hours off-road and 3 hours road riding. The bridge unlocks access to all motorcycles with no power limit (over 35 kW).
How much does the A2 to A bridge cost in 2026?
The A2 to A bridge costs 250 to 400 euros in provinces and 350 to 500 euros in Paris in 2026. It includes the 7 mandatory training hours (theory + off-road + road), suitable motorcycle rental and pedagogical follow-up. No final exam is required, the certificate is issued directly by the school at the end of the course. CPF eligible 100 percent.
What waiting period between A2 and A licence access?
The legal waiting time is 2 years minimum after the A2 licence obtention date to access the bridge training. This period is meant to gain experience on a motorcycle limited to 35 kW (47.5 hp). Below 2 years, no exemption is possible even for high mileage. Beyond 5 years without bridge, the A2 remains valid for life but limited.
Which motorcycles are accessible with the A licence in 2026?
The A licence unlocks all motorcycles with no power or capacity limit, including hypersports of 200 hp and over (Yamaha R1, Kawasaki ZX10R, BMW S1000RR). Electric motorcycles over 35 kW (Energica, Zero SR/S) also become accessible. For sidecars, no restriction. Insurance can increase 30 to 60 percent depending on chosen capacity.
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