Why Buy A1 and A2 Driver's Licenses?
The A1 licence offers an improvement in training and riding rights compared to Compulsory Base Training (CBT). A1 motorcycles are restricted to 125cc engines.
The new format of the licence, which was introduced in 2011, displays on a card that is laminated, the bearer's photograph, date and category of issue, along with their name. You can find these cards at driving schools as well as ongoing training centers.
What is an A1 license?
The A1 is the first step towards riding a motorcycle or scooter for children. It's the only licence 17 and 18 year olds are able to obtain and allows them to ride motorcycles up to 125cc without any L plates. You can also carry a passenger and travel on motorways without having to display your learner's licenses both in front and back.
The process of getting an A1 license doesn't mean that you can get any bike you want, but it's an excellent way to learn how to ride a budget-friendly bike, with the added benefit of being able to advance to the next level (Restricted A2 Licence for 19-23 year olds or Direct Access Scheme A Licence for those aged 24 and over).
You need to be at least 16 years old before taking the Compulsory Basic training (CBT) course. This course is split into two parts: theoretical lessons and riding. The theory lessons focus on road rules and hazard awareness.
In the hands-on sessions, you'll learn the essential skills to operate a motorcycle or scooter. This includes maneuvering in the figure of eight, wheeling the bike and a slow speed control. You'll need to pass the theory and practical tests in order to get your A1 license.
If you're not content with the performance of your A1 bike, then you may want to upgrade to a more powerful A2 bike once you've completed two years as an A1 driver. This will require you to repeat the CBT and pass a practical test on the new bike.
Honda offers a wide selection of bikes you can pick from if you're considering upgrading your A1 license. There's something for everyone, from the comfortable and practical Honda CB125F up to the sporty Honda MSX125G "Grom". When selecting the Honda motorcycle to get your A1 license, it's important that you consider your budget as well as your preferences and intention of using the motorcycle. If you plan to use your A1 bike for daily commutes and commutes, then a commuter model like the Honda CB125F is the best.
What is A2 license?
The A2 licence is ideal for those who wish to ride larger more powerful bikes but aren't yet ready to get the full A license. The licence is open to people who are 19 or older. It allows you to ride a bike that has a maximum power of 35 kW (47bhp) as well as carry passengers, and ride on motorways.
After successfully passing your CBT and Motorcycle Theory Test, you can start training for your A2 license. It can take anywhere from a few days to several months, depending on when you sign up for the course and how many hours of training you require. The cost of A2 license training is contingent on the length of the training and the requirements you have. Prices start at PS400 for a brief introduction course and will be as high as PS900+ for full training, including mod 1 and mod 2.
To get your A2 licence you must pass two sections of the practical test that you must pass - Mod 1 and Mod 2 that you can pass on any bike that is road-legal and is in compliance with the power output requirements of the A2 licence. Online and dealership sellers often market their bikes as "A2 bikes" - be sure to examine the specifications before purchasing one since not all conform to the specifications.
After passing your A2 driving test, you can remove your L plates and ride an even more powerful motorbike. You can also carry a passenger and ride on motorways - and obviously, you do not be required to display your learner plates in front and rear.
If you decide to upgrade from A1 to a full A licence, you'll have to go through the entire course of training again, including both parts of the practical test, however it will be a lot quicker and less stressful if you already have experience with the higher level of bike.
The A1 license is valid for two years. After that, you'll be able to take a practical test to upgrade to the A licence. However, you should be aware that the A licence is not a permit to drive some vehicles and increases the legal limit of alcohol for drivers to 80 mg/100ml.
How do I get an A1 license?
The first step in obtaining an A1 license is to complete a Compulsory Basis Training (CBT) Course. This course will provide you with all the skills and knowledge that you need to ride on two wheels safely. This includes road rules such as hazard perception, specific motorcycle regulations. You will also learn how to operate the vehicle and carry out basic maintenance.
After you've completed your CBT it is time to take the Theory Test. It's a multiple-choice exam which is why it's a great idea to buy the official DVSA revision book to ensure you pass. The next step is to pass your practice A1 licence test, which gives you the right to ride a moped up to 125cc, with or without L plates or carry a pillion rider. This is a much more comprehensive test than the CBT and will include maneuvering exercises like wheeling the bike and performing a figure of 8.
If you're older than 19 you can upgrade your A1 licence to an A2 licence after two years. This allows you to use a motorbike or scooter with 125cc or 11kW without L plates or carrying a passenger. Once you turn 24, you'll be able to move up to a full A license by using Direct Access.
There are some riders who would rather stay on an A1 license for life however, if you'd like to move up to bigger and more powerful bikes in the near future, it's a good idea to be able to pass check here your A2 test so that you can upgrade your licence category. After completing your CBT it's worth considering further training to improve your riding and increase your confidence.
If you're seeking an affordable and reliable motorbike or scooter to begin your journey towards getting your A1 licence, our range of Honda bikes is a great place to start. Honda Monkey, CB125F, and MSX125 are some of the bikes that offer both the best of both worlds in terms of performance and affordability. We can also find you the best financing package to meet your needs.
How do I obtain an A2 license?
A2 is a modified version of the full category A motorcycle license. It permits you to ride motorbikes and scooters that have an engine size that is greater than 125cc, and an output of 35 kW (47bhp). The licence also allows you to pillion ride and to ride on motorways. The licence is available from the age of 19 or older and will aid in the process of upgrading to a full A license by using progressive access.
The first step towards obtaining an A2 license is obtaining the CBT. This is a one-day course which will cost between PS70-PS100. It will teach you the fundamentals of riding a scooter or motorbike. The course includes both practical and theoretical lessons.
After you have completed your CBT, you are now able to move on to taking the A2 Restricted Motorcycle Test. The test is split into two sections: Modules 1 and 2. You will need to bring your bike for both tests. It must meet the minimum cc requirements for A2. The bike must have an engine size of at least 395cc, and must have a maximum restricted power output of 35kW (47bhp).
Once you pass your A2 Restricted Motorcycle Test, you will be able to use any motorbike or scooter with a motor that is larger than 125cc. This includes all scooters. It is typical for sellers on the internet and in dealerships to market bikes under the designation "A2" in the event that they meet the requirements for power output. This is particularly true for bikes that are more expensive and have more performance.
The A2 licence is an excellent opportunity to breathe new life into your bike. You can enjoy more powerful and faster bikes with an A2 license. It will also give you greater confidence on the road. You'll also save money on your insurance, as most A2-ready bikes will fall into the group 10 category, however a superbike that's fast could be in group 19. The A2 motorcycle license is not a licence that allows you to ride any motorcycle. However, it will help you gain experience and confidence prior to upgrading to the full A licence.