Driving licence categories: ages and permitted vehicles

Key minimum ages: AM 14, A1 16, A2 18, B 18, C1 18, D1 21, C 21 and D 24. Category A is available from 24, or from 20 after holding A2 for at least two years; C and D have earlier routes linked to the CQC.

A comparison by category

A useful overview starts with what each category covers: AM for mopeds and light quadricycles; A1, A2 and A for motorcycles under different regulatory limits; B1 for heavier quadricycles; B for motor vehicles within the prescribed limits; C1 and C for goods vehicles; D1 and D for passenger vehicles. E suffixes cover specific vehicle-and-trailer combinations. Check the characteristics of each vehicle too.

A summary table cannot replace the law: minimum ages, direct access, progressive access and exemptions may vary by licence and current rules. The MIT portal has category guidance, and the Motorist’s Portal also provides an index. Check current vehicle and category guidance, not an undated infographic.

As a guide: AM 14; A1 and B1 16; A2 and B 18; C1 and C1E 18; A 24 (20 after two years with A2); D1 and D1E 21; C and CE 21 (the goods CQC route may be available from 18); D and DE 24 (the passenger CQC route may be available from 21). These are minimum ages for road categories and specific conditions apply: earlier professional routes require the relevant CQC, not just reaching the required age.

• AM: mopeds and light quadricycles, according to type approval.
• A: motorcycles; A1 and A2 have separate technical requirements.
• B, C and D: vehicles subject to specific mass, seating or use limits.
• BE, C1E, CE, D1E and DE: check the base category and trailer combination.

How to read the minimum age

Age is not always the only requirement. You may need to hold an earlier category, take its exam or meet special conditions for a professional route. For progressive access, check current guidance for the required holding period and exam. Clearly identify exceptions rather than presenting them as the general rule; ask the Motor Vehicle Office to confirm before enrolling.

If planning to get a licence, choose the category based on the vehicle and your goal, then check the requirements and administrative steps. For work, check whether you also need a qualification such as the CQC. If you already own a vehicle, start with its registration document and technical details.

Keeping your choice up to date

A comparison table should show when it was last checked and link each row to an official source. Check whether it refers to the category printed on your licence or a vehicle subcategory: similar abbreviations can mean different entitlements. If choosing a route, note the minimum age, any required previous licence and whether a professional qualification is needed. Do not compare ages alone: requirements and exam type matter too.

To study the category you are interested in,Quiz Patente Ufficiale offers chapters, timed exam practice and review of mistakes.