Can I ride a motorcycle with a car license in Portugal?

Yes! In Portugal, drivers with a car license (Category B) can legally ride motorcycles up to 125cc and 11 kW (15 hp) if they:

• Are over 25 years old, or
• Have held their car license for at least 3 years.

That means you can ride small scooters and motorcycles without needing a separate motorcycle license.

1. What the law says

According to Portuguese traffic law (Decree-Law No. 138/2012), Category B drivers may ride:

• Motorcycles up to 125cc
• Power limit: 11 kW (15 hp)
• Power-to-weight ratio under 0.1 kW/kg

This covers most urban scooters and light motorcycles available at rent.moto.pt in Lisbon.

2. Examples of bikes you can ride

With a car license, you can ride:

• Honda PCX 125 – smooth and fuel-efficient
• Yamaha NMAX 125 – modern design, perfect for the city
• Piaggio Medley 125 – stylish and practical
• Vespa Primavera 125 – iconic and lightweight

All available for rent without needing a motorcycle permit.

3. Requirements

You must:

• Be 25 or older or hold your car license for 3+ years
• Have a valid driving license recognized in Portugal
• Wear a certified helmet and follow road rules

Visitors from the EU can also ride under the same conditions.

4. Advantages of riding a 125cc

• Low fuel use and maintenance
• Easier parking
• Perfect for commuting in Lisbon
• Freedom to explore without traffic stress

With a car license, you can legally ride 125cc motorcycles in Portugal — an ideal way to enjoy urban mobility.
If you’re visiting Lisbon, you can easily rent a scooter and experience the freedom of two wheels safely and legally.