The minimum age to ride a motorcycle legally depends on the country and the type of motorcycle: In the United Kingdom:
- You can start riding a moped or light motorcycle at age 16 with Compulsory Basic Training (CBT) and an AM licence for mopeds up to 50cc.
- At 17, you can ride a light motorcycle up to 125cc with an A1 licence.
- At 19, you can ride a standard motorcycle up to 35 kW with an A2 licence.
- At 24 (or 21 with prior A2 licence experience), you can get a full A licence to ride unrestricted motorcycles
In the United States:
- Most states issue motorcycle licenses starting at age 16 or 17.
- Some states require riders to be 18 for a full license.
- A few states allow as young as 15 to take the motorcycle road test.
- Learner’s permits for motorcycles can sometimes be obtained as early as 14 or 15, depending on the state
General Notes:
- Under 16, children may ride off-road motorcycles in designated areas under supervision.
- The exact age and licensing requirements vary widely by jurisdiction.
- Riders must usually pass theory and practical tests, and complete training such as CBT in the UK or state motorcycle safety courses in the US before riding on public roads
In summary, the typical minimum age to ride a motorcycle on public roads ranges from 16 to 18 years old, with younger ages allowed for mopeds or off- road bikes under specific conditions.