Motorcycle License Class

TLDR

This Doc outlines which motorcycle licences are accepted for renting a scooter from Motion Rental. We explain the local Australian licence types, how international licences are assessed, and when you’ll need a certified translation. If your licence is not in English, a NAATI-certified translation is required. An International Driving Permit (IDP) is helpful but not a replacement for your home-country licence.

What Licences Do We Accept?

At Motion Rental, we accept a range of motorcycle licence types from Australia and around the world. You must present a valid motorcycle licence that matches the class of vehicle you intend to rent. If your licence is not in English, a NAATI-certified translation is required. An IDP (International Driving Permit) can be helpful to carry, but it is not valid on its own and is only accepted for a limited time depending on your visa type.

Accepted Motorcycle Licence Types by Country

Australia (AU)

  • R-E (Restricted): Allows motorcycles up to 660cc and a power-to-weight ratio of 150 kW/tonne max.
  • R (Unrestricted): Permits riding of any motorcycle.
  • Note: You must hold the correct class based on the scooter’s engine size.

International Licences (Grouped by Continent)

Asia

India: Licence with “MCWG” endorsement covers all motorcycles.

Philippines: Restriction Code 1 covers motorcycles and scooters.

Indonesia: SIM C allows motorcycles up to 250cc (C1 and C2 are for larger capacities).

Vietnam: A1 (up to 175cc), A2 (above 175cc).

Thailand: Motorcycle category on standard licence; must be separate from car class.

Europe

European Union (EU) (Standardised):

  • AM: Mopeds up to 50cc.
  • A1: Up to 125cc.
  • A2: Up to 35 kW.
  • A: Full unrestricted motorcycle licence.

United Kingdom (UK):

  • AM, A1, A2, A (same as EU).

North America

United States (US): “M” Endorsement or separate motorcycle-only licence. Licence must match engine capacity.

Canada: Varies by province. Classes include:

  • Class 6A (all motorcycles)
  • 6B (≤400cc)
  • 6C (≤125cc)
  • 6D (mopeds)

South America

Argentina:

  • A1.1: Up to 50cc
  • A1.2: Up to 150cc
  • A1.3: 150cc–300cc
  • A1.4: Over 300cc

Brazil: Category “A” covers all motorcycles.

Africa

South Africa:

  • Code A1: Up to 125cc
  • Code A: All motorcycles

Oceania (outside Australia)

New Zealand:

  • Class 6L (learner)
  • Class 6R (restricted)
  • Class 6F (full motorcycle licence)

Fiji: Group 2 licence required for motorcycles.

International Driving Permits (IDP)

An IDP translates your foreign licence into English. It is recommended when your licence is not in English, but it:

  • Must be carried alongside your original licence.
  • Is not valid on its own.
  • Is only valid temporarily (generally 3–12 months, depending on visa type and state laws).

Preferred Alternative: For non-English licences, we recommend a NAATI-certified translation, especially if you’re staying long-term or applying for additional services in Australia.

Final Notes

To rent a scooter from Motion Rental:

  • Your licence must be valid and clearly authorise you to ride a motorcycle or scooter.
  • If your licence is not in English, we require a NAATI-certified translation.
  • An IDP may be carried for support but does not replace your original licence.
  • Contact our support team for help confirming if your licence is eligible.

Frequently asked questions

  • Is an IDP (International Driving Permit) enough to rent a scooter in Australia?

    No. You must also carry your original foreign licence. We also recommend having a NAATI-certified translation if it’s not in English.

  • Can I rent a scooter with a car licence?

    Yes you can in Queensland but upto 50cc scooters also known as Mopeds only.

  • What if my country doesn’t issue licences in English?

    We require a NAATI-certified translation of your original licence.

  • What if I’m not sure my licence qualifies?

    Contact our support team with a photo of your licence and we’ll let you know.

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