Getting around by motorbike in the city or on an island like Gran Canaria has many advantages: you avoid traffic jams, parking is easy and you enjoy the journey with a sense of freedom thatâs hard to match. But before you hop on a scooter or a light 125cc motorbike, thereâs an important question to resolve: what licence do you actually need?
The good news is that, if you already have a car licence (the B type), you might be closer than you think. However, there are conditions, exceptions and legal details you should be aware of. Here we explain everything clearly, up-to-date and with real examples. And at the end, we tell you how to rent one of these motorbikes without complications if youâre thinking of going on a trip or getting around the island.
General requirements for riding 125cc motorbikes in Spain
What does the DGT say about the required licence?
The DirecciĂłn General de TrĂĄfico (DGT) states that to ride a 125cc motorbike you need to have an A1 licence or, in some cases, the B licence. These types of motorbikes are considered light motorcycles, as long as they do not exceed 11 kW of power (15 HP) and a power-to-weight ratio of 0.1 kW/kg.
Differences between A1, A2 and B licences
A1 licence: You can obtain it from the age of 16. It allows you to ride motorbikes up to 125cc. It includes theoretical and practical exams.
A2 licence: From the age of 18. It allows larger engine motorbikes, but also covers 125cc ones.
B licence: The car licence. It allows you to ride 125cc motorbikes only if you have held this licence for more than 3 years. This option is only valid in Spain.
Can I ride a 125cc motorbike with a B car licence?
Yes, itâs possible to ride a 125cc motorbike having only a car licence, but not in every case. There are clear conditions that must be met, and not everyone with a B licence can do it automatically. The B licence for riding a 125 is allowed, but it doesnât apply automatically to all cases.
Requirements for it to be valid
The B licence only enables you to ride motorbikes up to 125cc if it was issued by the DirecciĂłn General de TrĂĄfico in Spain. In addition, the vehicle must comply with the A1 limits: that is, not exceed 125cc or 11 kW of power, and meet the established power-to-weight ratio. This use is restricted to Spain; if you travel to another European country, you cannot rely on this equivalence.
Minimum experience required with the B licence
Your B licence must be at least 3 years old. If you have just obtained it, even if youâre over 18, you cannot legally ride a 125cc motorbike.
Types of motorbikes allowed with the B licence
You can only ride motorbikes that fall under the A1 category:
- 49cc electric motorbike (moped): you can also ride it with the AM licence.
- 125cc electric or petrol scooter, as long as it complies with power and weight limits.
Requirements for tourists and foreign nationals in Spain
Riding a 125cc motorbike in Spain isnât only for residents. Many tourists and foreign nationals staying temporarily in the country also consider renting a light motorbike to move around comfortably. In these cases, the type of licence and its legal validity may vary greatly depending on the driverâs country of origin.
Can you ride with a foreign licence?
Yes, you can. Spain allows the use of foreign licences as long as they are valid and allow you to ride the type of vehicle you intend to use. However, recognition is not automatic for everyone. In general, if your licence comes from a European Union country or the European Economic Area, you can ride a 125cc motorbike under the same conditions as a Spanish citizen. You donât need additional paperwork or an international driving permit.
Licences valid in the EU and outside the EU
- EU or European Economic Area (EEA) citizens: they can use their licence directly, with no further procedures.
- Countries with agreements with Spain (such as Switzerland, the United Kingdom, Japan, among others): the licence is usually valid for a set period of time.+
- Other countries: you will need an international driving permit translated into Spanish, along with your original licence.
Cases where an international licence is required
The international permit is a complementary document that translates your original licence into several languages. It is compulsory if you come from a country that has no agreement with Spain or if your licence is written in another alphabet (such as Cyrillic, Arabic or Chinese). It is also needed if you intend to stay in Spain for more than six months, as in that case you should start the process of exchanging your licence for a Spanish one, if regulations allow it.
What type of scooter can you rent with each licence?
If youâre thinking of renting a motorbike or scooter in Spain, itâs essential to know what type of vehicle you can legally ride according to the licence you hold. Although the term âscooterâ is used generally, not all models are the same and not all require the same licence.
Scooter 50cc, 125cc and >125cc
50cc scooters are the most basic. They are equivalent to a moped and have a speed limit of 45 km/h. To ride one of these, the AM licence is enough, which can be obtained from the age of 15.
On the other hand, if we are talking about a 125cc scooter, we are already within the light motorcycle category. The licence required for a 125 scooter is usually the A1, although the B licence with three yearsâ experience is also valid.
Scooters over 125cc â such as 300cc models or even more powerful ones â belong to a higher category. To ride them you need an A2 or A licence, depending on the vehicleâs power.
Legal and practical requirements
Apart from the licence needed to rent a scooter, many companies apply additional conditions regarding age and experience. In most cases, a minimum age of 21 is required to rent 125cc scooters, although some companies may accept you from age 18 if you hold an A1 licence. You must also present the original, valid licence and, in some cases, previous motorbike experience, especially if the models are heavier or have gears. If you come from abroad, make sure you meet the legal requirements before confirming your booking. Remember that the licence required to rent a motorbike in Spain is not always the same as the licence required to ride it: some companies apply their own restrictions.
What happens if I ride a motorbike without the proper licence?
It may seem like a minor offence, but riding without the appropriate licence carries significant penalties. In the case of motorbikes, not having the correct licence can cost you dearly, even if itâs due to ignorance.
Penalties and fines
Fines of up to 500 euros.
Points removed from your licence.
Possible immobilisation of the vehicle.
Insurance cover and legal liability
If you ride without being legally authorised, insurance will not cover damages.
In the event of an accident, financial liability may fall on you.
The rental company may also claim damages if you lied about your licence.
Tips before renting a motorbike or scooter in Spain
Required documentation
Valid driving licence.
DNI, passport or NIE.
Credit card for the deposit.
In some cases, an international permit if youâre not an EU citizen.
Safety recommendations
Always wear an approved helmet.
Avoid riding if you have no experience.
Find out about the rental insurance conditions.
Make sure you know the local traffic rules.
Where to rent scooters in Gran Canaria
At Scooter and Bike Rental youâll find electric scooters and motorbikes of 50cc, 125cc and higher, inspected and ready to ride around the island. The licence required for a rental motorbike depends on the model you choose and whether you meet the legal and company requirements. Our team checks your licence and advises you so you can choose the right model according to your experience level and the type of route you plan to do.
Gran Canaria is best enjoyed on two wheels⊠but always within the law!
