Ligier
Microcar
Legislation
CAN YOU DRIVE A VEHICLE AT 14 WITH OR WITHOUT A LICENCE?
Legislation for AM licence vehicles
Stop calling them no-licence cars! Now, if you want to drive a Ligier or a Microcar you need... a licence! European regulations meet very strict rules: these are "two-seater vehicles with AM licence". Driving without a licence, in the strict sense of the term, requires a few explanations about "AM licence vehicle" legislation.
What is a quadricycle?
In Europe, quadricycles may be driven from 14 years of age (depending on the country). The regulations distinguish between 2 categories of quadricycle:
- Light quadricycles: two-seater models, whose unladen weight is limited by the regulations¬ to 350 kg, equipped with a 4 kW (5.6 hp) engine and whose speed is lower than 45 kph. Since January 2013 an AM category licence has been compulsory to drive them. It is similar to the moped category and may be driven with an AM light quadricycle option licence or without a licence depending on the age of the driver and the regulations that apply in the country.
- Heavy quadricycles: 4-seater models that may reach a maximum power of around 20 hp (15kW) and whose maximum speed is not limited, generally 90 kph.
Freedom to share as a couple
An AM licence vehicle is a two-seater vehicle which enables you to transport a single passenger.
Seat belts
It is compulsory to wear seat belts.
When travelling, all motor vehicle drivers or passengers must wear an approved seat belt if their seat has one. Each seat that has a seat belt may only be occupied by one person.
Motorways and express ways prohibited!
AM licence vehicles are prohibited from travelling on motorways or express ways (article R 421-2 of the highway code).
In principle, these are roads with two lanes in each direction, separated by a central reservation and with access via interchanges.
However, their status is determined by the authorities and has no technical characteristics. This status may be granted to all or part of national or departmental roads or to certain ring roads in urban and peri-urban areas. They are indicated to drivers by a blue panel with a white outline with a white car on it.
If the light quadricycle's driver uses a satellite navigation system, they must pay close attention to these restrictions which are not taken into account by their device.
In addition, all travel and parking limitations and restrictions which apply to two or four-wheel engine-powered vehicles also apply to them and their drivers must be aware of them.
Insurance required
As engine-powered land vehicles, AM licence vehicles are subject to compulsory civil responsibility insurance