Understanding the Norwegian licence categories makes planning your training, theory exam and practical drive easier. Start with Introduction to the theory exam for an overview of the learning path.
Main groups of licence categories
Norwegian licences are grouped by vehicle type and weight.
- Moped and light ATV (class AM)
- Snowmobile and tracked vehicles (class S)
- Tractor and self-propelled machinery (class T)
- Motorcycles (classes A1, A2 and A)
- Passenger car and trailers (classes B, B96 and BE)
- Light and heavy lorries (classes C1, C1E, C and CE)
- Minibus and bus (classes D1, D1E, D and DE)
Category table
| Class | Vehicle type | Minimum age | Key requirements |
|---|---|---|---|
| AM | Moped (max 50 cc, 45 km/h) | 16 years | Theory test, practical training, traffic foundation course |
| S | Snowmobile/tracked vehicle | 16 years | Snowmobile theory test, local practical training where required |
| T | Tractor / work machine (max 40 km/h) | 16 years | Theory module, practical training recommended |
| A1 | Light motorcycle (max 125 cc, 11 kW) | 16 years | Theory, compulsory courses and practical test |
| A2 | Medium motorcycle (max 35 kW) | 18 years | Theory/practical test, power-to-weight ≤ 0.2 kW/kg |
| A | Heavy motorcycle (unrestricted) | 24 years (20 via A2 progression) | Progressive pathway, compulsory upgrade training |
| B | Car (max 3500 kg, ≤ 8 passengers) | 18 years (17 with accompanist) | Theory test, practical drive, medical certificate |
| B96 | B with heavier trailer (3501–4250 kg combined) | 18 years | Compulsory course, no separate driving test |
| BE | B with trailer > 750 kg | 18 years | Class B theory + trailer practical test |
| C1 | Light lorry (3501–7500 kg) | 18 years | Theory test, medical certificate, practical test |
| C1E | C1 with trailer | 18 years | Requires C1, extra theory and practical test |
| C | Heavy lorry (> 3500 kg) | 21 years (18 with CPC*) | Theory, medical certificate, practical test |
| CE | C with trailer | 21 years (18 with CPC*) | Requires C, extra theory and practical test |
| D1 | Minibus (8–16 passengers) | 21 years (18 with CPC*) | Theory, medical certificate, practical test |
| D1E | D1 with trailer | 21 years (18 with CPC*) | Requires D1, extra theory and practical test |
| D | Bus (> 8 passengers) | 24 years (20 with CPC*) | Theory, medical certificate, practical test |
| DE | D with trailer | 24 years (20 with CPC*) | Requires D, extra theory and practical test |
*CPC = Commercial Driver Certificate of Professional Competence (YSK in Norwegian).
Moped and snowmobile (AM and S)
Class AM covers mopeds and light ATVs up to 45 km/h.
Class S covers snowmobiles and tracked vehicles used on approved trails. Both demand a dedicated theory test, and class S adds local permits and practice where available.
Motorcycle categories (A1, A2, A)
- A1: Light motorcycles – ideal starting point.
- A2: Medium motorcycles – requires two years on A1 or separate training.
- A: Full motorcycle licence – direct access at 24, or progressive upgrades at 20.
Passenger car and trailer (B, B96, BE)
Classes B, B96 and BE define what you can tow with a passenger car. Read Driving with a trailer and Car and trailer, registration and weight for detailed loading rules.
Lorry categories (C1, C1E, C, CE)
From light lorries (C1) to full articulated vehicles (CE), these categories require extended theory, practical training and a valid medical certificate. Commercial driving demands a CPC and compliance with Laws and regulations.
Bus categories (D1, D1E, D, DE)
D1 covers minibuses, while D is for full-size buses. Trailer rights add D1E and DE. Commercial work also means CPC renewal and regular health checks.
How to choose the right category
Consider:
- Vehicle type: What you plan to drive most often.
- Purpose: Private driving or professional transport.
- Age and experience: Some categories have higher age thresholds.
- Long-term plan: Will you step up to heavier vehicles later?
- Regional needs: Living in snowmobile regions or on farms may make classes S or T relevant.
Key points to remember
- Many categories build on each other – for example moving from A2 to A.
- Health and eyesight requirements apply to every licence renewal.
- Commercial categories require regular CPC renewals and medical certificates – see Laws and regulations.
- Everyone must complete the Traffic foundation course.