Learning the craft
The first step to enjoying the freedom and thrills of riding a motorcycle safely is a structured training program. Once you are up and running there are further opportunities to add to your riding skills and enhance your abilities. You never know, you may choose to go all the way to becoming an expert and completing the circle by teaching newcomers to the motorcycling community.
Starting Out
- Driver Theory Test: Pass the motorcycle theory test (category A, A1, A2, or AM).
- Apply for Learner Permit: Apply to the NDLS for your learner permit.
- Complete IBT Course: Undertake mandatory Initial Basic Training (IBT) with an Approved IBT Instructor.
- 16-Hour Course (AM/A1): For mopeds or small bikes.
- 18-Hour Course (A2/A): For larger motorcycles, involving three modules (1, 3, and 5).
- Gear Up & Practice: You must wear a high-visibility vest and display L-plates. You cannot carry passengers or use motorways.
- Pass the Driving Test: After holding your permit for at least six months, you can take the RSA practical test.
Check out the article: The Top 5 Motorcycles for Beginners
Motorcycle Licence Categories
- AM Licence (Moped): Minimum age 16. For mopeds/scooters with an engine capacity under 50cc and a maximum speed of 45kmh.
- A1 Licence (Small Motorcycle): Minimum age 16. For motorcycles up to 125cc, max power 11kW(14.75hp), and power-to-weight ratio not exceeding 0.1kW/Kg.
- A2 Licence (Medium Motorcycle): Minimum age 18. For motorcycles with a power output not exceeding 35kW (47hp) and a power-to-weight ratio not exceeding 0.2kW/Kg. The bike cannot be derived from a vehicle of more than double its power.
- A Licence (Full Motorcycle): Minimum age 24 (or 20 with 2 years’ experience on an A2 licence via Progressive Access*). Covers any motorcycle regardless of size or power (typically minimum 595cc).
*Progressive Access: You can advance from a lower category to a higher one without taking a new test if you have held a full licence for at least two years. For example, after two years on a full A1 licence, you can complete a 9-hour conversion course (IBT) to get an A2 licence.
Motorcycling training specialists
Irish Motorcycle Training
Irish Motorcycle Training supply Motorbike Lessons in Dublin, Kildare or in Meath to suit your level of motorbike experience. Many of their Motorbike Training courses can be tailored to your requirements. They supply Motorcycle lessons, Motorbike IBT courses and Motorcycle Pre-Test Lessons. School bikes can be hired for all IBT courses, motorcycle pre-test lessons and motorbike tests.
BikeSafe
The team at bikesafe.ie deliver on learning to ride a motorcycle, doing your I.B.T. or preparing for a riding test, insurance assessments, intermediate motorcycle lessons, back to motorcycling, licencing laws,buying a motorcycle or advice on which motorcycle to choose – They cater for all your motorcycle needs from lessons to advice and IBT.
Harley Davidson - Learn to Ride
Master the ways of the road Harley-Davidson® motorcycle training is designed for riders of all skill levels, from beginner to advanced. Life’s better when you know how to ride.
Skills Motorcycle Academy
Welcome to Skills Motorcycle Academy, where you can learn everything you need to know to ride and control your motorcycle safely. Whether you are interested in starting with the basics of riding a motorcycle—and getting your full licence—or simply improving your motorcycle skills to be safer on the road, we have a course for you. We offer motorcycle training in Dublin, Kildare, Wicklow and throughout Ireland.
MotorbikeIBT
MotorbikeIBT is a motorcycle training school specialised in IBT courses and pre – tests. Their training grounds and instructors are approved by the RSA. They can train from beginners to advanced. In addition, they can provide Insurance Assessments for Liberty and Axa. MotorbikeIBT provide PPE and have a great selection of school bikes in all licence categories.
BikeWise
Motorcycle Training Limerick by Bikewise is motorcycle rider training for all levels delivered by Dermot Coll. He can help you with your Initial Basic Training (IBT) along to test preparation and right through to advanced riding courses and certification.
Cork Motor Cycle Training
Started by David Brown, Cork Motorcycle Training has been established since 2012. He always loved biking and this lead him to turn his passion into a business and since then Cork Motorcycle Training has gone from strength to strength. David’s passion for training comes from wanting to share that amazing feeling of just you and the bike on the open road!
ROSPA - Advanced Drivers and Riders
Irish Advanced Rider Training (IART) is a ROSPA Advanced Rider Group that aims is to improve motorcycle safety by sharing knowledge and experience with members of the group. The group was founded in October 2010 and was the first RoSPA motorcycle group in Ireland. The RoSPA test is internationally recognised as the gold standard of competency for motorcycle riders.