Motorcycle helmets and licences in Sweden (2026)

Last reviewed: 30 October 2026

In short: Everyone riding on a motorcycle must wear a protective helmet, and lights must be on when riding. Minimum ages are 16 (A1), 18 (A2) and 24 for category A, or 20 after two years on A2.

RuleWhat applies
Helmet required for the riderRiding a motorcycle; MotorcycleYes [1]
Helmet required for a passengerRiding a motorcycle; MotorcycleYes [1]
Minimum age, category A1 (light motorcycle)Riding a motorcycle; Category A1 (light motorcycle)16 years [2]
Minimum age, category A2Riding a motorcycle; Category A2 (medium motorcycle)18 years [3]
Minimum age, category A (direct access)Riding a motorcycle; Category A (unrestricted motorcycle)24 years [4]
Minimum age, category A (after two years on A2)Riding a motorcycle; Category A (unrestricted motorcycle)20 years [4]
Dipped beam or daytime running light required by dayRiding a motorcycle; MotorcycleYes [1]

Notes

  • Exceptions include passengers under seven wearing other suitable head protection, riding inside a parking area or petrol station area, and three- or four-wheel motorcycles with a body if the seat belt is used. The driver must ensure passengers under 15 wear a helmet. A passenger is allowed only if the rider is 18 or over.
  • Applies with category A2 held for at least two years.
  • Vehicles must have their prescribed lamps and headlamps on when driving on a road, and dipped beam must be used. Under section 71 other light that is adequate to make other road users notice the vehicle may be used instead, except in darkness, dawn, dusk or poor weather.

Sources

  1. Sveriges riksdag: Trafikförordning (1998:1276) (consulted 30 October 2026) · all sources
  2. Transportstyrelsen: A1 – Lätt motorcykel (consulted 30 October 2026) · all sources
  3. Transportstyrelsen: A2 – Mellanstor motorcykel (consulted 30 October 2026) · all sources
  4. Transportstyrelsen: A – Tung motorcykel (consulted 30 October 2026) · all sources

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General information, not legal advice. Rules change: check the official source before you fly or ride.