The most frequent question we get about two-wheelers isn’t about models or prices, it’s about licences. And the most frequent misunderstanding is always the same: “I have a car licence, so I can take a scooter.” Partly true — but not any scooter you like.
The categories at a glance
| Category | What it permits | Minimum age |
|---|---|---|
| AM | Mopeds up to 50cc, max 45 km/h | 16 |
| A1 | Motorcycles up to 125cc and 11 kW | 18 |
| A2 | Motorcycles up to 35 kW | 20 |
| A | No power restriction | 24 (or 22 with A2 experience) |
| B (car) | Mopeds up to 50cc | 18 |
What a car licence actually permits
In Greece, category B lets you ride a moped up to 50cc. That covers the classic city scooters and is entirely adequate for getting around Piraeus, the port and the surrounding neighbourhoods.
It does not cover 125cc. This is the commonest source of confusion, because in some other European countries a car licence does extend to 125cc after short training. It doesn’t here, and in a check or an accident the difference matters: riding without the correct category may mean the insurance doesn’t respond.
One further restriction that gets forgotten: mopeds up to 50cc are not permitted on motorways or dual carriageways. If you plan to ride into Athens on the main avenues or along the coast road, you need at least a 125cc and an A1 licence.
Foreign licences
A licence issued in an EU or EEA country is valid in Greece as it stands. No translation and no international permit are needed; it simply has to be current and cover the vehicle category.
For licences from outside the EU — the UK post-Brexit, the US, Australia, Canada and others — an International Driving Permitis normally required. It’s issued in your own country before you travel and always accompanies the original licence rather than replacing it.
Because the rules shift from time to time by country, send us your country of issue before booking and we’ll tell you exactly what you’ll need. The rest of the paperwork is covered in what you need to rent.
Helmets and other obligations
Helmets are compulsory for rider and passenger, without exception and regardless of engine size or distance. We provide two helmets with every two-wheeler at no charge — tell us the sizes when you book.
Beyond the helmet, the obvious things are enforced: registration document and insurance certificate with you, lights on during the day, and zero alcohol tolerance for new riders. A passenger is only permitted if the machine is approved for two, which every two-wheeler in our fleet is.
What to rent
In practice the choice follows from your licence and your route:
- Car licence only, riding around Piraeus: a 50cc scooter. It’s enough, and it’s the cheapest option.
- A1 and regular runs into Athens: 125cc. Handles the avenues safely and stays economical.
- A2 or A and longer distances: a 300cc or a motorcycle, depending on what suits you for comfort and storage.
See the available categories on the scooter rental and motorbike rental pages. If you need a machine on a permanent basis, monthly hire works out considerably cheaper per day.
