Main categories
| Category | What you can drive | Minimum age |
|---|---|---|
| AM | Mopeds up to 45km/h (28mph) | 16 |
| A1 | Light motorbikes up to 125cc and 11kW | 17 |
| A2 | Motorbikes up to 35kW | 19 |
| A | Any motorbike | 24 (21 via A2) |
| B | Cars up to 3,500kg with up to 8 passenger seats | 17 (16 with enhanced PIP) |
| BE | Car with a trailer up to 3,500kg | 17 |
| C1 | Vehicles 3,500–7,500kg | 18 |
| C | Lorries over 3,500kg | 21 (18 with CPC) |
| D1 | Minibuses up to 16 passenger seats | 21 |
| D | Buses with more than 8 passenger seats | 24 (lower with CPC) |
Cars (category B)
Most learners want category B. It covers cars and small vans up to 3,500kg (up to 4,250kg for some electric vehicles) with no more than 8 passenger seats. Your provisional licence covers category B as a learner; passing your practical test gives you the full entitlement.
Mopeds and motorbikes
Riders go step by step: CBT first, then a moped (AM) or motorbike (A1, A2, A) test. You can move up through the categories as you gain experience ("progressive access"), or take the direct access route when you are older. The motorcycle theory test uses the same format as the car test.
Lorries and buses
To drive lorries (C1, C) or buses (D1, D) you need a full car licence first, then a provisional entitlement for the larger category, a medical, and separate theory and practical tests. Professional drivers also need a Driver Certificate of Professional Competence (CPC).
Questions
Can I tow a trailer on a car licence?
Yes. Since 16 December 2021, car drivers can tow trailers up to 3,500kg maximum authorised mass. Category BE was added to licences automatically.
Does an automatic test let me drive a manual?
No. If you pass in an automatic car your licence only covers automatics. To drive a manual you need to pass a test in a manual car.
What do the codes on the back of my licence mean?
Numbers such as 01 (eyesight correction) or 78 (automatic only) are restriction codes. GOV.UK lists them all.