Portugal is a country made for traveling with the wind in your face. Whether it’s the narrow, cobbled streets of Alfama in Lisbon, the winding roads leading to the palaces of Sintra, or the picturesque coast of the Algarve — the car here often becomes a burden rather than a means of transport. The traffic on the 25 de Abril Bridge and the eternal parking problem in the center of big cities make many think about switching to two wheels.
But here arises the big question that worries both expats and tourists: do you need to go to driving school and get a Category “A” license if you already have a standard car license (Category B)?
The law is on your side (with one condition)
The answer is yes, you can ride a motorcycle, but there is an important age restriction. Portuguese legislation (specifically changes introduced by Law n.º 78/2009) allows drivers with a Category B license to ride light motorcycles, provided the following conditions are met:
- Displacement: up to 125 cm³.
- Power: not exceeding 11 kW (about 15 hp).
- Driver’s age: You must have completed 25 years of age.
This is the “golden rule” of 25 years. If you have a B license but are, for example, 23 years old, riding a 125cc scooter is prohibited by law. In that case, you would have to pass a practical exam to obtain the A1 category. However, if you are already 25, your Category B automatically “expands,” allowing you to ride light motorcycles without additional tests or bureaucracy.
Important note: If your license was not issued in Portugal but in another EU country, this rule generally remains due to mutual recognition. If the license is from outside the European Union, it is recommended to carry an International Driving Permit (IDP) to avoid misunderstandings with the authorities (GNR or PSP).
Why is the 125cc the ideal choice for Portugal?
Motorcycles and scooters of this class are the kings of Portuguese roads. Their power is sufficient to confidently keep up with traffic on expressways (like the VCI in Porto or the Segunda Circular in Lisbon), where the speed limit is often restricted to 80-90 km/h. Moreover, they consume a ridiculous amount of fuel — often about 2.5–3 liters per 100 km, which, with current gasoline prices, is a serious argument.
Furthermore, two-wheeled transport in Portugal has privileges. You can park practically anywhere (for free!), avoid traffic, and reach secret beaches where it is impossible to get by car due to its size.
Ready to try it out?
You don’t need to buy a vehicle immediately to feel this freedom. Rental is the best way to see if this lifestyle is for you. Imagine yourself cruising along the coastal road with the sea breeze, at the controls of a modern 2025 Honda PCX125 in elegant blue. This model is the perfect example of comfort and technology: agile, easy to ride, and an eye-catcher. It is emotions like these that transform a normal vacation into an unforgettable adventure.
Safety first
Despite the ease of access and comfort of modern scooters, remember the specifics of local roads. The famous calçada portuguesa (Portuguese pavement) is incredibly beautiful but becomes slippery as ice after rain. Therefore, even if the law does not require you to take courses, it is better to make your first ride carefully and with protective gear. A helmet is mandatory by law, but gloves and a jacket are just common sense.
Thousands of verified motorcycle and scooter options, including the new Honda PCX, await you all over the country. Choose your ideal bike, book in a few clicks, and head off on an adventure.
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