The motorcycle theory test in Ireland, explained.
Everyone starts here. You need to pass the theory test before you can apply for a learner permit, and you need the permit before IBT. All the figures on this page come from theorytest.ie.
What the motorcycle theory test is.
The motorcycle theory test is the Driver Theory Test for category AM, which theorytest.ie calls the Motorcycle/Moped Theory Test. It's a multiple-choice exam on a computer at a test centre, and it's the same test whether you're going for an AM, A1, A2 or A licence.
Pass it and you get a Driver Theory Test certificate, which you need to apply to the NDLS for your first learner permit.
One test for every bike licence
Category AM covers learner permits and licences in AM, A1, A2 and A.
40 test centres
There are 40 test centres in Ireland, and you pick one when you book.
Result on screen
Your pass or fail shows on screen at the end of the exam.
How to book it.
Book online at theorytest.ie and choose the AM (Motorcycle/Moped) category. Pick carefully, because the test centre can't change the category on the day. The fee is €45, and you need an Irish address to book.
On the day, arrive 30 minutes early with one approved photo ID in hard copy, such as a Public Services Card with a photo or your passport. The name on your booking has to match your ID exactly. If your ID isn't accepted, you can't sit the test and you lose the fee.
What's in the test.
- Questions
- 40
- Time
- 45 min
- Pass mark
- 35
- Fee
- €45
The questions are multiple choice, picked at random from the official question bank. If you get stuck, you can skip a question and come back to it before you finish.
The question bank was updated in 2024 with new images and questions on road safety and the law. The number of questions and the pass mark stayed the same.
Figures from theorytest.ie, checked on 28 September 2026.
How to prepare.
Study from the official revision material, since the exam questions come from the same bank. You can buy it from theorytest.ie as an online subscription or as the Official Driver Theory Test Learning App for iPhone and Android. Make sure you have the 2024 version, because older apps don't update to the new questions.
Book the test when you pass the practice tests every time. If something in the material doesn't make sense, ask us when you call.
After you pass.
Apply to the NDLS for your first learner permit in the category you want: AM, A1, A2 or A. Don't leave it too long. Your certificate is valid for 2 years from the date of your test, and you have to apply for your first permit within that time. Once the permit arrives, you can book your IBT.
Pass the theory test
Book it at theorytest.ie, study the motorcycle questions, and sit the exam. This is the step you can start today, before anything else.
Book it nowApply for your learner permit
With the theory test passed, you apply to the NDLS for a category A1, A2 or A learner permit, depending on the bike you want to ride.
Get your learner permitDo your IBT
The mandatory 16 hours over four modules. You need your learner permit in hand to start, and this is where we come in.
See the IBT coursePractise, then sit your test
Once your IBT is done you ride solo to build hours, do some pre-test prep, and book your practical test when you're ready.
Book your testThe quick answers on the motorbike theory test.
How many questions are on the motorcycle theory test?
40 multiple-choice questions, and you have 45 minutes to answer them.
What's the pass mark?
35 out of 40.
How much does the motorcycle theory test cost?
€45. You pay when you book the AM (Motorcycle/Moped) test at theorytest.ie.
How long is the theory test certificate valid?
2 years from the date of your test. You need to apply for your first learner permit within that time.
Can I take the test in another language?
You can take it in English or Irish. When you book you can also choose an English voiceover, dyslexia support or Irish Sign Language videos. The voiceover in 21 languages is only available for the car test, so if you need another language, check the Test Day Assistance page on theorytest.ie.
Do I need the theory test before my IBT?
Yes. You pass the theory test, then apply for a learner permit, and you need that permit to start IBT.
Source: theorytest.ie (booking page, FAQs and Test Day Assistance), checked on 28 September 2026.
Once it's passed, here's what we do.
IBT Training
The mandatory 16-hour course over four modules. The legal step between your permit and riding solo.
Explore IBTMotorcycle Lessons
Every category covered: A, A1, A2 and A2 automatic, plus advanced ROSPA rider training.
See categoriesPre-Test Prep
A full mock test with an instructor who shows you exactly what the examiner looks for.
Pass first timeLeave your number. We'll call you back.
Stuck on where to start, or already passed the theory test and want to line up your IBT? Drop your number and one of the team will ring you to talk it through. No cost, no obligation.
- Call us
- +353 85 100 0629
- Covering
- Meath, Westmeath & Dublin