Can You Ride a Bike with a B1 Licence?
Everything you need to know – limits, legalities, and practical tips
1. Why This Question Matters
If you already hold a Category B (car) licence, you might have heard that the same licence can also cover certain two‑wheelers. In many European countries the answer is “yes, but only up to a point.” Getting the details right can save you from fines, insurance headaches, or even an unexpected revocation of your entitlement to drive.
In this post you’ll discover:
- Exactly which bikes you’re allowed to ride with a B1 licence.
- The engine‑size, power and speed limits that apply.
- How a B1 licence differs from the motorcycle‑specific licences (A1, A2, A).
- The steps you need to take if you want to extend your riding rights.
- Answers to the most common questions in a handy FAQ.
All of this is presented in a clear, second‑person style so you can quickly check whether your current licence already gives you the freedom you want on two wheels.
2. What Is a B1 Licence?
A B1 licence is a sub‑category of the standard Category B (car) licence. It was introduced in the EU to allow drivers to operate light motorised vehicles that are not quite cars, but also not full‑size motorcycles. Think of small three‑wheelers, quad‑bikes, and certain low‑powered two‑wheelers.
| Licence Category | Main Vehicle Types | Typical Power/Engine Limits |
|---|---|---|
| B | Cars, vans, trucks up to 3 500 kg | – |
| B1 | Light quad‑bikes, side‑cars, motor‑tricycles, mopeds up to 50 cc (or 4 kW) | ≤ 4 kW (5.4 hp) & ≤ 45 km/h (28 mph) |
| A1 | Light motorcycles | ≤ 125 cc, ≤ 11 kW (15 hp) |
| A2 | Medium‑power motorcycles | ≤ 35 kW (47 hp) |
| A | Any motorcycle | No limit |
Key point: With a B1 licence you are not automatically allowed to ride any motorcycle. The law restricts you to light, low‑powered two‑wheelers and three‑wheelers that fall within the defined limits.
3. Bikes You Can Ride with a B1 Licence
Below is the complete list of two‑wheeled (and three‑wheeled) vehicles that a B1 licence covers in the United Kingdom (the rules are very similar across most EU states).
| Vehicle Type | Example | Maximum Engine Capacity | Maximum Power | Maximum Speed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Moped | 50 cc scooter, 125 cc “low‑power” bike | 50 cc (or 125 cc if ≤ 4 kW) | 4 kW (5.4 hp) | 45 km/h (28 mph) |
| Motor‑Tricycle (3‑wheel) | Piaggio MP3, Can-Am Spyder (restricted) | Any, but power ≤ 15 kW (if you have a full B) – B1 only up to 4 kW | 4 kW (5.4 hp) | 45 km/h (28 mph) |
| Side‑car attached to a car | Classic side‑car on a small car | – | – | – |
| Light Quad‑bike | Small off‑road quad (restricted) | – | 4 kW (5.4 hp) | 45 km/h (28 mph) |
| Electric scooter (non‑motor‑cycle) | 250 W‑500 W e‑scooter | – | ≤ 4 kW | ≤ 45 km/h (28 mph) |
Note: The engine size rule only applies to internal‑combustion engines. For electric bikes the limit is expressed in kilowatts (kW) and top speed.
If you own a standard 125 cc motorcycle that produces more than 4 kW, you cannot ride it on a B1 licence – you’ll need an A1 licence instead.
4. Legal Limits – What the Numbers Mean
| Parameter | B1 Limit | Practical Example |
|---|---|---|
| Engine displacement | ≤ 50 cc (or 125 cc if ≤ 4 kW) | A 49 cc “classic” moped or a 125 cc scooter tuned down to 4 kW |
| Power output | ≤ 4 kW (≈ 5.4 hp) | Most 50 cc scooters fit this automatically |
| Maximum speed | ≤ 45 km/h (≈ 28 mph) | The bike will be limited electronically or mechanically to stay under this speed |
| Vehicle weight (unladen) | ≤ 350 kg for 3‑wheelers | Light trikes such as the Piaggio MP3 300 |
If any of these thresholds are exceeded, you are legally required to hold the appropriate motorcycle licence (A1, A2, or A).
5. How to Get a B1 Licence (If You Don’t Already Have It)
Even though many drivers already receive a B1 entitlement when they pass their standard car test, some jurisdictions still ask you to declare the B1 entitlement or complete a short practical assessment. Follow these steps to be sure you’re covered:
- Check your current licence – Look for the “B1” notation on the back of your photocard licence.
- Apply for a B1 entitlement – If it isn’t listed, submit a D1 form (UK) or the equivalent in your country, requesting the addition of B1.
- Pass the theory component – Some authorities require you to pass a motorcycle theory test that covers road signs, safety, and vehicle dynamics.
- Complete a practical assessment – Usually a 15‑minute on‑road ride with a qualified examiner, focusing on basic control, signalling, and obeying speed limits.
- Pay the fee – In the UK, the fee for adding B1 is around £15‑£20 (subject to change).
- Receive your updated licence – It should arrive within 2‑3 weeks, now showing “B1” next to your B category.
Quick Checklist
- Licence shows “B1”
- Theory test passed (if required)
- Practical assessment completed
- Fee paid
Once you have the entitlement, you can legally ride any of the vehicles listed in the table above, provided they stay within the power and speed limits.
6. B1 vs. A1 vs. A2 vs. A – Quick Comparison
| Feature | B1 (sub‑category of B) | A1 | A2 | A |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Minimum age | 17 (or 16 with provisional) | 17 | 19 | 24 (or 21 with progressive licence) |
| Vehicle type | Mopeds, light trikes, quad‑bikes | Light motorcycles | Medium‑power motorcycles | Any motorcycle |
| Engine size limit | 50 cc (or 125 cc ≤ 4 kW) | 125 cc | 35 kW (max 0.2 kW/kg) | No limit |
| Power limit | 4 kW (5.4 hp) | 11 kW (15 hp) | 35 kW (47 hp) | Unlimited |
| Top speed | 45 km/h (28 mph) | 100 km/h (62 mph) | 130 km/h (81 mph) | Unlimited |
| Training required | None (or short assessment) | Full theory + 6 hrs practical | Full theory + 12 hrs practical | Full theory + 20 hrs practical |
The table shows why many drivers mistakenly think a B licence covers all “small bikes.” The B1 sub‑category is extremely limited, and as soon as you exceed those thresholds you need a dedicated motorcycle licence.
7. Practical Considerations
| Consideration | What You Need to Do |
|---|---|
| Insurance | Most motor insurers treat a B1‑eligible bike as a “moped” – check that your policy covers the exact model you own. |
| Helmet & Protective Gear | Even if the law doesn’t mandate a full set of gear for a moped, wearing a helmet (CE‑approved) and visible clothing is strongly recommended. |
| Road Types | B1‑rated mopeds are not allowed on motorways in the UK and many EU countries. |
| Age Restrictions | If you’re under 18, you may need a provisional licence and a supervisor (over 21) for the practical assessment. |
| Vehicle Modifications | Adding a larger engine or removing speed limiters will void your B1 entitlement – you’ll need a proper motorcycle licence. |
| Cross‑border Riding | When travelling abroad, verify the host country’s interpretation of “B1”. Some nations treat it as a full Category B, while others require a separate licence. |
8. Common Misconceptions (Debunked)
| Myth | Reality |
|---|---|
| “If I have a car licence, I can ride any scooter.” | Only scooters that stay under 4 kW and 45 km/h are covered. Anything faster needs A1 or higher. |
| “Electric motorcycles are automatically allowed with B.” | They are still subject to the same power and speed limits; a 15 kW e‑bike exceeds B1. |
| “I can ride a 125 cc bike because it’s ‘small.’” | A 125 cc bike can produce well over 4 kW. Without an A1 licence, it’s illegal. |
| “B1 works on highways.” | Most mopeds and light trikes are prohibited from motorways. |
| “I don’t need to inform my insurer.” | Riding a vehicle not covered by your policy can void your insurance and lead to severe penalties. |
9. Frequently Asked Questions
1. Do I need to take a test to add B1 to my licence?
In the UK you typically just need to apply and pay a fee; a short practical assessment may be required if you have never ridden a moped before. In other EU states a full theory test may be mandatory.
2. Can I ride a 125 cc scooter with a B licence if it’s limited to 4 kW?
Yes, as long as the scooter’s power is electronically limited to ≤ 4 kW and its top speed does not exceed 45 km/h. You must still have the B1 entitlement noted on your licence.
3. What happens if I’m caught riding a 125 cc bike that exceeds 4 kW?
You could be fined, receive penalty points, and your insurance may be invalidated. In serious cases the vehicle can be seized.
4. Are there any age limits for B1?
You can obtain a B1 entitlement at 17 (or 16 with a provisional licence) in the UK. Some countries allow it at 16, but you must be supervised until 18.
5. Can I ride a three‑wheel scooter (like a Piaggio MP3) with a B1 licence?
Only if the model’s power is ≤ 4 kW and its top speed is limited to 45 km/h. Most MP3 models exceed these limits, so an A2 licence is usually required.
6. Do I need separate car insurance for my moped?
Most car policies do not automatically cover mopeds. Add a “motorbike/moped” extension or purchase a dedicated moped policy.
7. If I get an A1 licence, does it replace my B1 rights?
Yes, an A1 licence supersedes B1 for motorcycles up to 125 cc. You’ll still be able to ride cars under your Category B.
10. Bottom Line – Is a B1 Licence Enough for You?
If your goal is to zoom around town on a low‑powered scooter, a small quad, or a lightweight three‑wheel vehicle, then a B1 licence (or the B1 entitlement on your existing car licence) is usually sufficient.
However, the moment you want:
- Higher speeds (above 45 km/h)
- More power (over 4 kW)
- Standard 125 cc motorcycles that produce the typical 8‑10 kW
…you’ll need to graduate to an A1 (or higher) licence.
Always double‑check the specific limits for the bike you own, ensure your insurance covers it, and keep your licence information up to date. Riding legally not only protects you from fines, it also guarantees that you’re covered should anything go wrong on the road.
Ready to ride?
- Grab your current licence and verify the “B1” entry.
- Match your bike’s specifications against the tables above.
- If you’re missing the entitlement, follow the short application process.
Happy, safe, and legal riding! 🚦🏍️