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How to Get a Swiss Motorcycle License in 2027
Learn how to get a Swiss motorcycle license in 2027, including categories, training, tests, costs, and insurance.
- Introduction
- Swiss Motorcycle License: How It Works
- Which Swiss Motorcycle License Category Do You Need?
- How to Get a Motorcycle License in Switzerland
- Can You Get a Motorcycle License With a Swiss Car Licence?
- How Much Does a Swiss Motorcycle License Cost?
- How Long Does the Process Take?
- What Do You Need Before Riding on Swiss Roads?
- FAQ
Introduction
Switzerland has three main motorcycle licence levels: A1, restricted category A up to 35 kW, and unrestricted category A. The right Swiss motorcycle licence depends on your age, the licence you already hold and the power of the motorcycle you want to ride.
This guide explains each category and walks you through the application, training and tests. It also covers costs, waiting times and the insurance you need before taking your motorcycle onto Swiss roads.
Swiss Motorcycle License: How It Works
The Swiss motorcycle licence system uses a step-by-step structure:
- A1 from age 15: Light motorcycles limited to 45 km/h
- A1 from age 16: Motorcycles up to 125 cc and 11 kW
- Restricted category A from age 18: Motorcycles up to 35 kW
- Unrestricted category A: Motorcycles with no power limit
- Category B holders: A1 can be added after the required motorcycle training without a practical test
Most adult beginners start with restricted category A. To move to unrestricted A, you normally need at least two years of experience with a 35 kW motorcycle and must pass another practical test.
Switzerland calls the 35 kW licence “category A with restriction.” It is not officially presented as a separate Swiss A2 category.
Which Swiss Motorcycle License Category Do You Need?
Engine size is only one part of the licence rules. Your age, the motorcycle’s power, and its power-to-weight ratio can also affect which category you need.
| Category | Minimum age | Motorcycle limit | Practical test |
|---|---|---|---|
A1 light motorcycle | 15 | Up to 50 cc and 45 km/h | Usually required for first-time riders |
A1 motorcycle | 16 | Up to 125 cc and 11 kW | Required unless added through category B |
Restricted A | 18 | Up to 35 kW and 0.20 kW/kg | Required |
Unrestricted A | After the required restricted-A period | No power limit | Required |
A1 light motorcycle
Minimum age
15
Motorcycle limit
Up to 50 cc and 45 km/h
Practical test
Usually required for first-time riders
A1 motorcycle
Minimum age
16
Motorcycle limit
Up to 125 cc and 11 kW
Practical test
Required unless added through category B
Restricted A
Minimum age
18
Motorcycle limit
Up to 35 kW and 0.20 kW/kg
Practical test
Required
Unrestricted A
Minimum age
After the required restricted-A period
Motorcycle limit
No power limit
Practical test
Required
Motorcycle limit
1. Category A1 for Light Motorcycles
This category is available from age 15. It covers light motorcycles with a maximum speed of 45 km/h and, for combustion engines, a capacity of up to 50 cc. It is mainly used for small scooters and mopeds.
2. Category A1 for Motorcycles Up to 125 cc
From age 16, A1 covers motorcycles with an engine capacity of up to 125 cc and power of up to 11 kW. It is a practical option for city travel, short commutes, and new riders.
3. Restricted Category A Up to 35 kW
Restricted Category A is available from age 18. The motorcycle must not exceed 35 kW or a power-to-weight ratio of 0.20 kW/kg. This category covers many popular entry-level and mid-range motorcycles.
Unrestricted Category A
Unrestricted category A has no power limit. Most riders must first hold restricted A for at least two years, meet the clean-driving requirement, and pass another practical test. Direct access is limited to certain professional groups, including qualifying motorcycle mechanics, police officers, and traffic experts.
How to Get a Motorcycle License in Switzerland
If you are wondering how to get a motorcycle license in Switzerland, the process starts with choosing a category and applying through your cantonal road traffic office. Some requirements are waived if you already hold category B, B1, or A1.
Step 1: Choose the Right Motorcycle Category
Choose a category that matches your age and the motorcycle you plan to ride. You should also check whether your training and test motorcycle meets the relevant engine, power, and power-to-weight limits.
Step 2: Submit Your Learner Permit Application
The exact application process differs by canton, but you will usually need:
- A completed learner permit application
- A valid identity document or residence permit
- A recent passport photo
- An eyesight test
- A medical certificate when required
Submit the application to the road traffic office in your canton. Check its current document rules, fees and submission method before applying.
Step 3: Complete First Aid and Theory Requirements
First-time drivers must normally complete a ten-hour first-aid course and pass the basic theory test. The first-aid certificate is generally valid for six years.
You may also need to complete the traffic-awareness course before taking the practical test. If you already hold a Swiss category B licence, you generally do not need to repeat the first-aid course, basic theory test, or traffic-awareness course.
Step 4: Receive Your Motorcycle Learner Permit
The learner permit is initially valid for four months. Completing the required motorcycle course within this period normally extends it by another 12 months.
While learning, you must display a visible blue “L” on the motorcycle. You may ride without an instructor. However, you can only carry a passenger if that person holds the required motorcycle licence category.
Step 5: Complete the 12-Hour Basic Motorcycle Course
The compulsory practical basic instruction lasts 12 hours. It is usually divided into three modules of four hours and must be completed during the first four months of the learner permit.
The training covers motorcycle control, road positioning, cornering, braking and hazard awareness. Under the current system, riders only need to complete this basic motorcycle course once.
Step 6: Practice and Pass the Practical Test
The practical exam normally assesses:
- Motorcycle control and low-speed manoeuvres
- Emergency braking
- Observation and road positioning
- Safe riding in traffic
- Independent decision-making
The exam generally lasts around 60 minutes, although the format and duration may differ by canton. Your motorcycle must meet the test requirements, be roadworthy and have valid registration and insurance.
Can You Get a Motorcycle License With a Swiss Car Licence?
A category B car licence shortens the process, but it does not automatically allow you to ride every motorcycle.
To add A1, category B holders must apply for a learner permit and complete the 12-hour basic motorcycle course. After completing the course, they can normally have A1 added without taking a practical test.
Restricted category A is different. Category B holders must still complete the relevant motorcycle training and pass a practical test. A car licence alone does not allow you to ride a 125 cc motorcycle in Switzerland. A1 must first appear on your licence.
How Much Does a Swiss Motorcycle License Cost?
There is no fixed national price. Cantonal charges, riding-school fees, equipment, and the number of private lessons all affect the final cost.
| Expense | Estimated cost |
|---|---|
Eyesight test | CHF 10–20 |
First-aid course | CHF 100–200 |
Learner permit | CHF 40–80 |
Theory test | CHF 30–40 |
12-hour motorcycle course | CHF 200–600 |
Traffic-awareness course | CHF 200–250 |
Practical test | CHF 90–130 |
Licence issuance | CHF 30–70 |
Optional riding lesson | CHF 80–120 per lesson |
Protective equipment | CHF 500–1,500+ |
Eyesight test
Estimated cost
CHF 10–20
First-aid course
Estimated cost
CHF 100–200
Learner permit
Estimated cost
CHF 40–80
Theory test
Estimated cost
CHF 30–40
12-hour motorcycle course
Estimated cost
CHF 200–600
Traffic-awareness course
Estimated cost
CHF 200–250
Practical test
Estimated cost
CHF 90–130
Licence issuance
Estimated cost
CHF 30–70
Optional riding lesson
Estimated cost
CHF 80–120 per lesson
Protective equipment
Estimated cost
CHF 500–1,500+
Estimated cost of Swiss motorcycle insurance
A first-time rider should plan for at least CHF 1,500. The total can be higher if you need several lessons or buy new protective gear. Category B holders often pay less because several courses and tests are waived.
These estimates do not include the motorcycle, registration or insurance. See our guide to motorbike insurance costs when planning your full riding budget.
How Long Does the Process Take?
The timeline depends on your current licence and test availability:
- Category B to A1: You may qualify after the 12-hour course and administrative processing.
- New A1 or restricted A rider: Allow several months for courses, practice and the test.
- Restricted A to unrestricted A: You must normally wait at least two years before upgrading.
Some cantons limit or suspend motorcycle tests during winter. Apply early enough to finish your training and test before your learner permit expires.
What Do You Need Before Riding on Swiss Roads?
Passing the test is not the final step. Your motorcycle must be registered, and third-party liability insurance must be active before the cantonal authority issues licence plates.
You can also add partial casco or full casco to protect your own motorcycle. Insurers may consider your age, riding experience, canton, claims history, and motorcycle power when setting the premium.
Before choosing motorcycle insurance in Switzerland, check whether the policy covers theft, collision damage, protective clothing, roadside assistance and trips outside Switzerland. New riders can also review the options for insurance for a new motorcycle rider.
FAQ
No. Category B alone is not enough. You must obtain a motorcycle learner permit, complete the required 12-hour course, and have A1 added to your licence.
AutoMotoplus
4 September 2026
2026-09-04
