Why Buy A1 and A2 Driver's Licenses?
The A1 licence offers a step-up in terms of riding and training as compared to Compulsory Basic Training (CBT). A1 motorcycles are limited to 125cc engines.
The new format of the license, introduced in 2011 displays on a card that is laminated, the bearer's photograph as well as the date and the category of issue, along with their name. These cards are sold at driving schools and training centres.
What is an A1 license?
The A1 is the first step towards riding a motorcycle or scooter for youngsters. It is the only license that those aged 17-18 years old can get, allowing them to ride bikes of up to 125cc. It also allows you to carry passengers or ride on motorways, and not be required to display learner plates in front and rear.
The A1 license does not permit you to purchase any bike, but it allows you to learn how to ride with a limited budget. You can also progress to the next stage, which is the Direct Access Scheme A Licence (for people aged 24 and over) or the Restricted A2 Licence (19-23 year olds).
You must be at least 16 years old to enroll in the Compulsory Basis Training (CBT). It's a two-part course that involves theory lessons and riding in the real world. The theory lessons focus on road rules and hazard perception.
In the sessions that you will be able to practice, you will master the fundamental abilities required to operate a motorbike or scooter. This includes manoeuvring in an eight-point figure while riding, wheeling the bike and a slow speed control. You'll have to pass both the practical and theory tests to obtain your A1 licence.
If you're not satisfied with the performance of your A1 bike, then you can upgrade it for a higher-powered A2 bike after two years as an A1 driver. However, this means you'll need to finish the CBT program again and pass an actual test on the new bike.
If you're thinking of upgrading your A1 licence then you should think about looking into the various Honda bikes available to you. There's something for everyone, from the comfortable and practical Honda CB125F up to the sporty Honda MSX125G "Grom". It's important to think about your budget, preferences and the purpose for which you're choosing a Honda motorcycle for your A1 license. If you intend to use your A1 bike on daily commutes, then a commuter model like the Honda CB125F is best.
What is A2 license?
The A2 licence is perfect for people who want to ride bigger and more powerful bikes, but aren't yet ready to get a full A licence. This license is available to those aged 19 or over. It permits you to ride a bike with a maximum power of 35 kW (47bhp) as well as carry a passenger, and drive on motorways.
If you successfully pass your CBT and Motorcycle Theory Test you can begin your training for the A2 licence, which can take between a few weeks to a few months based on when you can book onto a course, and the amount of training you require. The cost of A2 license training is contingent on the duration of the course and your requirements. Prices start around PS400 for a brief introduction course and will be as high as PS900+ for a full training, including mod 1 and mod 2.
To obtain your A2 licence you must pass two portions of the test in practice - Mod 1 and Mod 2 that you can pass on any bike that is road legal and meets the power output limitations of the A2 licence. Dealerships and online sellers often advertise their bikes as "A2 bikes" - be sure to verify the specifications prior to purchasing one since not all meet the specifications requirements.
Once you have completed your A2 driving test, you can take off your L-plates and start riding your more powerful motorbike. You can also carry passengers and ride on motorways - and of course you will not be required to display your learner plates front and rear.
If you decide to upgrade your A1 license to a full-A license, you will need to complete the entire program once more, including the two parts of the exam. However, it can be quicker and less stressful if your bike is already at an upper level.
The A1 licence is valid for two years and after that time you are able to take an exam in order for the A licence. However, you must be aware that the A licence will restrict the ability to drive certain types of vehicles and will also increase the legal limit of alcohol for drivers to 80mg/100ml.
How do I obtain an A1 license?
The first step to getting an A1 license is to complete a Compulsory Basis Training (CBT) Course. This course will provide you with all the knowledge and skills you require to operate a two-wheeler safely. This includes the road rules as well as hazard perception and specific regulations for motorcycles. You'll also learn to operate the vehicle and carry out essential maintenance.
After you have completed your CBT it's time to take the Theory Test. It's a multiple choice test and you should purchase the official revision guide from the DVSA to help you get through the test. The next step is to take your practice A1 licence test, which will give you the right to ride a moped up to 125cc, with or without L plates or carry a pillion. This is a much more comprehensive test than the CBT and will include manoeuvring exercises like wheeling the bike and performing a figure of 8.
After two years, if you are over the age of 19, you can upgrade from an A1 licence to an A2 licence. This will allow you to ride motorcycles and scooters with 125cc capacity and 11kW and without L plates. Once you reach 24, you can move up to a full A license via Direct Access.
Some riders prefer to keep their A1 licences for the rest of their lives. If you plan to upgrade to a bigger and more powerful bike in the future you must be able to pass your A2 test to upgrade your licence category. It's also worthwhile to consider taking additional training once you've completed your CBT in order to help you improve your riding skills and increase your confidence.
If you're seeking a reliable and versatile motorbike or scooter to start your journey towards obtaining your A1 license the range of Honda bikes is a great place to start. We have bikes such as the Honda Monkey, CB125F and MSX125 which offer a blend of performance and affordability. We can also help you find the best financing package to meet your needs.
How do I obtain an A2 license?
An A2 licence is a restricted version of a category A motorcycle licence. It permits you to ride on scooters and motorbikes that have engine sizes greater than 125cc, and a maximum output of 35kW (47bhp). The licence also permits you to carry pillion passengers and ride on motorways. The license is available to people aged 19 and over and speeds the process of upgrading to a full-A licence by allowing progressive access.
The first step in getting an A2 license is to obtain a CBT (Certificate of Basic Training). here The one-day course will cost between PS70 and PS100. It will teach you how to ride a motorbike or scooter. It includes both practical and theory lessons.
After completing your CBT, you are now able to move on to take the A2 Restricted Motorcycle Test. The test is split into two parts: Modules 1 & 2. You'll need to bring your bike to both tests. It must meet the minimum cc requirement for A2. The bike must have an engine of at least 395cc with the maximum power output of 37bhp.
After passing your A2 Restricted Motorcycle Test, you'll be able use any motorbike or scooter that has an engine size of more than 125cc. This includes all scooters. In dealerships and online, it is common to see bikes advertised as "A2" in the event that they meet power requirements. This is especially applicable to bikes that are more expensive and offer the highest level of performance.
The A2 licence can be an excellent way to breathe new life into your bike. The A2 licence will allow you to ride the fastest and most powerful bikes, and will make you much more confident on the road. You will also save money on insurance as the majority of A2-ready motorcycles will be in the category of group 10, while a superbike that is fast could be in group 19. The A2 motorcycle license is not a license that permits you to ride on any motorcycle. However it can help you gain experience and confidence before upgrading to the full A licence.