A separate test from the car one, on shared material
The motorcycle theory test is the AM paper, and it is a different exam from the car BW paper. They share a format, 40 questions in 45 minutes with 35 to pass, and theorytest.ie groups their revision material as “Car or Bike”, which is why the two are so often assumed to be one test. But they are sat under separate categories: the AM paper covers A, A1, A2 and AM, while BW covers B, BE and W.
A car theory certificate does not cover you for a motorcycle permit. The RSA is explicit: “If you have never taken a motorcycle theory test you must now sit a theory test before you can get a first learner permit.” A full car licence does not exempt you either, and you still need a learner permit in the motorcycle category. Check your own position with the RSA motorcycle FAQ before you apply.
You can start on the shared material now with motorcycle practice questions.
You must pass the theory test before you can apply for a motorcycle learner permit. When you are ready to apply, see our step-by-step How to Get Your Learner Permit guide.
Motorcycle learner permit categories
Irish motorcycle licences are split into stages by vehicle power and type:
- AM: Mopeds and light quadricycles (low power, restricted performance).
- A1: Motorcycles up to 125 cc and within power limits set for the category.
- A2: Motorcycles with power up to 35 kW (and power-to-weight rules apply).
- A: Unrestricted large motorcycles.
Minimum ages
Ages depend on the route (direct access vs holding a lower category for a required time). Typical minimum ages are:
- AM: 16
- A1: 16
- A2: 18
- A: 20 with progressive access (after holding A2 for the required period), or 24 for direct access to unrestricted A.
Always confirm current RSA and NDLS rules when you apply, as details can change.
IBT (Initial Basic Training)
For motorcycles, IBT is the structured training programme, the two-wheeled equivalent of EDT for cars. It is mandatory and must be delivered by an RSA Approved IBT Instructor at an approved training centre. How long it takes depends on the category you are training for: 16 hoursfor AM or A1 (modules 1, 2, 3 and 4), and 18 hours for a first-time A2 or A (modules 1, 3 and 5). Each module mixes theory with practical riding, and your instructor records completion on the RSA system.
Test format and fee
The theory test format is the same whether you are preparing for car or motorcycle:
- 40 multiple-choice questions
- 45 minutes
- Pass mark: 35 correct
- Fee: €45 (car and motorcycle category booking)
For a full run-through under exam conditions, use our mock theory test after you have revised the bank on practice questions.
Topics that matter on two wheels
Because the bank is shared with car candidates, you will see general rules of the road, hazard awareness, and signs, but questions often reward thinking like a rider. Pay extra attention to:
- Protective clothing: abrasion resistance, gloves, boots, and weather-appropriate layers.
- Visibility: positioning for sight lines, using lights, and being seen by other traffic.
- Road positioning: safe lane choice, curves, and junction approaches on a motorcycle.
- Filtering: moving past slow or stationary traffic only where it is safe and legal; knowing when not to filter.
- Carrying passengers: when it is allowed (generally on a full licence for that category, not as a learner), pillion safety, and machine suitability.
Helmet and high-visibility gear
An ECE-approved helmet is mandatory when riding on public roads. Other gear is not all legally mandated in the same way, but the theory test expects you to know why high-visibility and proper kit reduce risk: examiners treat rider safety as core knowledge.
After you pass: learner rules on a motorcycle
On a motorcycle learner permit, typical restrictions include:
- Display L plates (or D plates in Irish) front and rear where required for the vehicle.
- No passengers (no pillion) while you hold a learner permit for the motorcycle category.
- No motorways for learner permit holders in ordinary car and motorcycle learner scenarios. Use alternative routes until you qualify for motorway use under a full licence and any other conditions that apply.
Use motorcycle theory practice on our site to consolidate the bank before you book, then follow How to Get Your Learner Permit with your pass certificate to hand.