Licensing and Insurance
- 1/30If applying for an A1 license
The minimum age to obtain an A1 license in Spain is 16 years, which allows you to ride motorcycles up to 125 cc and 11 kW.
If applying for an A2 license
To get an A2 license, you must be at least 18 years old; it permits motorcycles up to 35 kW.
If applying for a full A license
Riders can get the A license only if they are at least 20 years old and have held an A2 license for 2 years.
When applying for a moped license (AM)
The minimum age to ride a moped (AM license) in Spain is 15 years, raised from 14 to increase safety.
If holding a B car license for 3 and above years
If you’ve had a B license for over 3 years, you’re legally allowed to ride motorcycles up to 125 cc in Spain.
If you don’t pass the driving test
If you fail your motorcycle test, both theoretical and practical sections must be retaken as per licensing rules.
When riding a moped without AM license
Riding a moped without a valid AM license is legally considered unlicensed driving, leading to fines and penalties.
If applying for A2 license with no experience
Without prior licenses, you must complete full theory and practical training to earn your A2 license.
When your license expires
In Spain, motorcycle licenses must be renewed every 10 years, and updated photo and health check may be required.
If your insurance policy expires
Riding a motorcycle with expired insurance is illegal and subject to immediate fines.
If holding a foreign license
A foreign license must be exchanged within 6 months of residency in Spain, unless it’s from the EU.
If converting a foreign license
Depending on country agreements, a practical or theoretical test may be required for conversion.
If you lose your motorcycle license
A lost or stolen license must be replaced by requesting a duplicate from the DGT (traffic authority).
If insurance is not contracted
In Spain, insurance is required to register any motorcycle with the Dirección General de Tráfico.
When using third-party insurance (SOA)
SOA insurance is mandatory and only covers third-party injuries or property damage, not your own.
When opting for full coverage
All-risk insurance (comprehensive) provides coverage for theft, vandalism, and own-vehicle damage.
If caught riding without insurance
Riding uninsured is illegal in Spain and can result in fines over €1,000, plus possible immobilization.
If an insurance lapse occurs
Repeated lapses or violations may cause administrative flags on your license, leading to suspension reviews.
If riding uninsured during a crash
If you cause an accident while uninsured, you are fully responsible for all financial damages, regardless of fault.
If rider provides false insurance info
Submitting false documents or insurance info can lead to heavy fines and potential suspension of your license.
When applying for A license at 24 and above
Riders 24 years or older can access the full A license without holding A2 if they pass the required tests.
If novice license holder violates road rules
Beginners who commit violations may get restrictions such as time limits or license suspension.
When enrolling in a safety course
Completing official motorcycle safety courses may lead to discounts on insurance premiums.
If choosing not to wear safety gear
Not wearing approved safety gear like helmets or gloves may reduce or void compensation from your insurer.
When buying a motorcycle
Proof of insurance is mandatory to complete the registration process for motorcycles in Spain.
If the owner changes
When ownership changes, a new insurance policy must be issued—you can’t transfer the old one.
If applying for license as a professional rider
Delivery and courier riders may require professional training and certifications beyond standard licensing.
If license is suspended
A suspended license often needs a re-test or medical certification to be reinstated legally.
When requesting a duplicate license
To replace a lost or damaged license, you must provide ID and a sworn statement, then apply at the DGT.
When taking the practical exam
The motorcycle used for testing must be insured and meet technical inspection standards under Spanish law.