How getting your motorbike licence in Spain changes in July

The changes to the Class A licences were announced by the General Directorate of Traffic (DGT) several months ago, but are only just coming into force.

The A licence permits unlimited motorcycle driving and is only available to those who have already held an A2 licence for at least two years.

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This is all in a bid to reduce motorcycle accidents, which is the main priority of the Interior Ministry’s road safety policy.

According to the latest stats 66 percent of motorcycle drivers are involved in road accidents and 34 percent in urban areas had an A licence.

There are several changes which include the following:

New practical training on proper roads

Firstly, there will now be mandatory practical driving training on secondary roads. Three hours will now be on theory knowledge, two hours of practical on closed-circuit driving, and four hours of riding on roads open to general traffic.

Mandatory monitoring of students The new regulations require motorcycle instructors to monitor students from another motorcycle during driving practice on open roads. Instructors will now have a maximum of three students. Up until now, this instructor could monitor students from a car.

The use of airbag vests

It will now be mandatory for both students and teachers to wear airbag vests. This now becomes an essential part of motorcyclists' equipment due to the fact that it protects critical areas of the chest. Driving schools will provide these vests at their centres for students. They will also be required to wear a reflective garment that identifies them as trainees.

Optional online theory content

The theory part of the test can now be delivered online through distance learning or a virtual classroom. The National Confederation of Driving Schools Publishing House has prepared an online course available to schools, including all in an interactive format.

Motorcycle driver assistance systems (ARAS)

Knowledge of motorcycle driver assistance systems, known as ARAS systems, will now be incorporated into the tests. These systems contribute to making motorcyclists' driving safer and reduce accidents.

Safe and efficient driving courses

The DGT has also said they will include further safe and efficient driving courses for both car and motorcycle drivers. It offers the option to take the courses to recover two points drivers have lost on their licences. Drivers can also improve their driving skills with a refresher course.