How do you get the AM licence in Belgium?

⏱️ 2 min read

You're (almost) 16 and want to ride a scooter? The AM licence is made for that. Here's what it covers, the steps to get it and the traps to avoid from the start.

✨ Key takeaways

AM licence = mopeds of class A (≤ 25 km/h) and class B (≤ 45 km/h), available from 16.
Two tests: theory at an approved centre, then practical on a site away from traffic.
Class A is not exempt from the licence: AM is compulsory for both classes.
Exemptions: holding another Belgian licence (e.g. B) or being born before 15/02/1961.

What is the AM licence for?

The AM licence is the licence category for mopeds. There are two classes: class A, limited to 25 km/h, and class B, limited to 45 km/h. The AM licence covers both — as well as light quadricycles (microcar-type vehicles).

The two steps

The theory exam, on a computer in an approved exam centre: multiple-choice questions on the Belgian highway code, with a focus on moped-rider situations. That is exactly what this course covers.
The practical exam, on a site isolated from traffic: you run through manoeuvres (slalom, braking, holding a line…) with your moped, helmet fastened.

Theory passed + practical passed = you collect your AM licence at the municipality. You can then ride a moped from 16 — but beware: at 16, as a rule you may not yet carry a passenger (age and the moped's equipment both matter — we come back to this in the lesson on passengers).

Who does not need to take the AM licence?

Holders of a category B licence (or another Belgian licence category): their category already covers riding a moped.
Drivers born before 15 February 1961: they benefit from an exemption linked to their date of birth.

Léa, 16, wants to ride a class A scooter (25 km/h max). What does she need?

❓ Frequently asked questions

From what age can you ride a moped in Belgium?

From 16, with the AM licence in hand (theory + practical passed).

I hold a category B licence — do I need to take the AM licence?

No: a Belgian licence of another category, such as category B, already allows you to ride a moped.