Your training
This is how your motorcycle licence works – step by step
From the initial chat to having your licence in your hand – here you can see the complete journey. No surprises, no hidden steps. As a rule, the whole process takes 1–3 months.
The way
Six steps to getting a driving licence
Station 1
Registration consultation
Drop into one of our four branches without an appointment. You probably already know which licence category is right for you – otherwise, we'll be happy to advise you in person. After registering, you can start your theory training straight away – the basic theory runs at all branches that offer theory lessons, the motorcycle-specific theory in Bockenheim. If you like, you can also get our learning app (€40, optional) to prepare for your theory test. You book your riding lessons via an app after registering – there is a separate booking app for this, so you don't need the learning app.
Station 2
driving licence application
Submit the application as early as possible – without it, you are not allowed to take the theory test. You can still start theory and riding lessons straight away, independently of it. You need: an eye test (max. 2 years old), a biometric passport photo and your ID. The first-aid course is valid for life – if you already have a driving licence, you don't need a new one (only necessary for a first-time application). You submit the application yourself. If you live in Frankfurt and it is your first licence, including A1, A2 or A, you can apply via the City of Frankfurt's online service (with the online ID function switched on and your PIN, from 16) or at a Frankfurt citizens' office (Bürgeramt). If you already hold a licence, for example category B, you apply for the extension in person at a citizens' office – only if you are converting a foreign driving licence or having B196 entered do you go directly to the driving licence office (Am Römerhof). If you do not live in Frankfurt, the driving licence authority for your place of residence is responsible. We'll explain exactly how it works at your registration consultation.
Station 3
Start theory – and soon driving too
Basic theory at all branches that offer theory lessons, can be started straight away – if you already hold another driving licence, for example for a car, it's only 6 double lessons (12 for first-time acquisition). The motorcycle-specific theory (4 double lessons) runs in Bockenheim – regularly outside the season too. And: you don't have to wait until the theory is finished – the first riding lessons run in parallel.
Station 4
Theory test
20 questions, a maximum of 6 penalty points – that's how it works for anyone who already has a driving licence (for a first-time licence 30 questions / 10 penalty points). Important: You are only allowed to take the theory test once your application has been processed by the authority. Possible 3 months before the minimum age at the earliest. After that, you have 12 months to take the practical test.
Station 5
Practical: Driving lessons departing from Kalbach
Lessons as required plus the 12 statutory special drives (5 rural road, 4 motorway, 3 at night). Meeting point is in Kalbach, near the test centre – on the quiet roads there you practise the basic manoeuvring exercises: slalom, emergency braking, swerving, walking pace. There is normal traffic, but it is much more relaxed than in the city centre.
Station 6
Practical test – and off we go
For Category A, the test at TÜV Kalbach lasts 70 minutes (A2 and A1 also last 70 minutes; upgrade tests last only 60): first the basic driving tasks, then the road test. Passed? Collect your driving licence and hit the road – with our preparation course: over 95% pass rate for Category A.
Why we ride in Kalbach
- No inner-city traffic jams: You are not standing, you are driving. Every minute of your hour is real driving time – that saves hours and money in the end.
- Practise basic driving tasks calmly – on quiet roads with little traffic.
- Home advantage in the exam: You are tested precisely where you have practised for months.
Seasonal tip
The best time to start
Practical training takes place depending on the weather from March until the end of October – in good years even from mid-February to mid-November. Our tip: Register in the winter. Then you hand in your papers at your leisure, attend theory – basic and motorcycle-specific theory run regularly outside the season too – and study for the test. You take your theory test early and start your practical training right at the beginning of the season.
Equipment
Protective clothing
Full protective clothing is compulsory in riding lessons and the test: helmet (ECE), gloves, a close-fitting motorcycle jacket, a back protector (if not integrated in the jacket), motorcycle trousers, boots. We strongly recommend protectors in the jacket and trousers. Our recommendation: get your equipment before your first riding lesson – the better equipped you are, the safer you are on the road. And you will need it afterwards anyway. If need be, we have individual items available, by arrangement.
Frequently Asked Questions
Procedure: briefly answered
How long does all that take in total?
Usually 1–3 months – it mainly depends on when your paperwork reaches the authorities. Anyone who submits it early can even manage it in a month.
Can I get my car and motorcycle licence at the same time?
Yes, that works – the theory material counts for both classes. The Theory lessons and the Category B driving licence you can find on our main page.
Where do the exams take place?
You take the practical test at the TÜV in Kalbach – right in the area where you had your riding lessons. Your home advantage. You take the theory test at Römerhof.
Ready for station 1?
Just drop in without an appointment
We advise you at four locations in Frankfurt.
More from the guide: The first riding lesson · The exam day step by step