Requirements
Microcar: how to tell whether you need AM or B1
To choose between AM and B1, check the approved category and technical limits, not the marketing name or number of wheels.
A microcar may be a light quadricycle covered by AM or a non-light quadricycle requiring B1. The distinction depends on the vehicle’s approval and technical data, not its appearance, advertised speed or electric powertrain.
AM and B1 cover different categories
An AM licence covers light quadricycles within the mass, speed and power limits for category L6e. B1 covers non-light quadricycles, which belong to another approved category and have different technical limits. “Microcar” is a sales label and does not answer which licence you need. Four wheels, an enclosed body or two seats are not enough to identify the required entitlement.
Check the registration document or certificate of conformity for the vehicle category, mass, power and maximum design speed. For an electric model, the continuous rated power used for classification may differ from the advertised peak figure. Do not confuse unladen mass, battery mass and maximum authorised mass; use the figure relevant to the vehicle category. If the seller describes a modified version or the information conflicts, do not drive until the documents clarify its classification and characteristics.
A practical check before driving
Imagine two vehicles that look almost identical. One is approved as L6e and stays within AM limits; the other exceeds those limits and falls into the non-light category. The second requires B1 even if advertising calls both vehicles microcars. Check that the vehicle has not been altered: removing a speed limiter or changing components can make it differ from its approved configuration and create road-use and insurance problems.
Once you identify the category, compare it with the driver’s licence and minimum age. AM is available from age 14 and B1 from age 16. Category B, available from 18, covers a different range of cars. These age limits do not replace checking the vehicle documents. If in doubt, ask the licensing office to interpret the registration document or request the certificate of conformity from the manufacturer. A photo or sales listing can help identify a model, but it does not replace official vehicle data.
Quiz Patente Ufficiale provides theory review for supported categories through chapters, quizzes, explanations, mistake review and study statistics.
Frequently asked questions
Does an electric microcar always require B1?
No. Electric propulsion does not determine the category. Check the approval and technical data distinguishing L6e from a non-light quadricycle.
Can I rely on the top speed in the sales listing?
No. Check the design speed and vehicle category in the official documents.