Why Buy A1 and A2 Driver's Licenses?
The A1 licence gives you a step up in terms of riding and training in comparison to the Compulsory Basic Training (CBT). The size of the engine on motorcycles with an A1 licence is limited to 125cc.
The new licence format introduced in 2011 displays the bearer's name, photo along with the date of issue as well as categories that are allowed on the laminated plastic card. The cards are available at driving schools and training centres.
What is A1 license?
The A1 is the first step in riding a motorcycle or scooter for children. It's the only license 17 & 18 year olds can take and allows them to ride motorcycles up to 125cc without any plates for L plates. You can also carry a passenger and travel on motorways without having to display learner's licenses on the both in front and back.
The A1 license doesn't allow you to buy any bicycle, but it does allow you to learn to ride on a budget. You can also move to the next stage, which is the Direct Access Scheme A Licence (for those aged over 24) or the Restricted A2 Licence (19-23 year olds).
You must be at least 16 prior to taking the Compulsory Basic training (CBT) course. This is a two-part course that includes theory as well as practical riding. The theory lessons are centered around road rules and hazard awareness.
In the hands-on sessions you'll be taught the fundamental skills to operate a motorcycle or scooter. This includes maneuvering in an eight-point figure, wheeling the bike and a slow-speed control. You'll need to pass both the theory and the practical tests to earn your A1 license.
If you're not happy with the power of your A1 bike, you may want to upgrade to a more powerful A2 bike after completing two years as an A1 driver. This will require you to repeat the CBT and pass a practice test on the new bike.
Honda offers a variety of bikes you can choose from if you are contemplating upgrading your A1 license. From the comfortable and practical Honda CB125F, to the sporty Honda MSX125G "Grom", there's something for everyone. When choosing the Honda motorcycle to use for your A1 licence, it's essential that you take into consideration your budget as well as your preferences and intended use. 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 bigger, more powerful bikes, but aren't yet ready to get the full A license. You can obtain this licence from the age of 19 and it allows you to ride bikes that produce no more than 35 kW or 47bhp. It also allows you to carry a pillion passenger 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 weeks to several months depending on when you book an event and the number of hours of training you require. The cost of A2 training will vary depending on your requirements and the duration of the course - prices start at PS400 for introductory courses of a short duration and range up to the PS900+ range for complete training including mod 1 and 2.
Mod 1 and Mod 2 are the two elements of the test that you must pass to get an A2 license. You can test on any bike that is able to meet the power output requirements of the A2 license. It is commonplace for online and dealership sellers to advertise their bikes as 'A2 bikes' - so be sure to check the specs when choosing one, as not all of them will be able to meet the specifications.
After passing your A2 driving test, you are able to remove your L plates and ride an even more powerful motorbike. You can also carry a passenger as well as take a ride on motorways. And of course, you don't be required to display your learner plates in front and rear.
If you decide to upgrade your A1 licence to a full-A license you'll need to finish the entire program once more including the two sections of the test. However, it may be easier and less stressful if your bike is already at an advanced level.
The A1 licence is valid for two years, and after that time you are able to take an exam in order to move up to the A licence - though you must be aware that the full A license can limit the ability to drive certain vehicles and will also increase the legal limit of alcohol for drivers to 80mg/100ml.
How do I get an A1 license?
The first step in getting an A1 license is to complete a Compulsory Base Training (CBT) Course. This course will provide you with all the knowledge and skills you require to operate a two-wheeler safely. This includes road rules, hazard awareness and motorcycle-specific laws. You will also learn to operate the vehicle and perform basic maintenance.
After you've completed your CBT It's time to take the theory test. It's a multiple-choice test and it's a good idea to buy the official DVSA revision guide to help you get through. The next step is to take the practical A1 test. This test will permit you to ride a moped up to 125cc without L plates and carry passengers. This is a more thorough test than the CBT and will include maneuvering exercises such as cycling the bike and then performing a figure of 8.
If you're older than 19 and have a valid A1 license to an A2 license after two years, which allows you to ride a scooter or motorcycle of up to 125cc and 11kW without L plates, or carrying a passenger. Then, you can upgrade to a full A licence via the Direct Access route once you're at least 24 years old.
There are certain riders who would rather stay on an A1 license for life however if you're looking to upgrade to bigger and more powerful bikes in the near future, it's best to be able to pass your A2 test so that you can upgrade your licence category. After completing your CBT it's a good idea to think about further training to improve your riding skills and increase your confidence.
If you're seeking an affordable and reliable motorbike or scooter to start your journey towards obtaining your A1 license the range of Honda bikes is the ideal place to start. Honda Monkey, CB125F, and MSX125 are just a few of the bikes that offer both the best of both worlds in terms of performance and affordability. We can also help you find the most suitable finance plan to meet your needs.
How do I get an A2 license?
An A2 licence is a limited version of a category A full motorcycle licence. This licence allows you ride motorbikes and scooters with engines that are larger than 125cc and a maximum power of 35kW (47bhp). It also permits you to carry pillion passengers and ride on motorways. The licence is available click here to those who are over the age of 19 and will speed the process of upgrading to a full-A licence through progressive access.
The first step in obtaining an A2 license is to obtain a CBT. This is a one-day course which will cost between PS70-PS100 and will teach you the basics of riding a scooter or motorbike. The course will include both theoretical and practical instruction.
After passing your CBT, you can then take the A2 Restricted Motorbike Test. The test is divided into two parts: Modules 1 & 2. Both tests require you to bring a bike that meets the minimum cc requirements of A2. The bike must have an engine of at least 395cc and an output of 37bhp.
Once you pass your A2 Restricted Motorcycle Test, you'll be able ride any motorcycle or scooter that has an engine size of more than 125cc. This includes the majority of scooters. Online and in dealerships it is commonplace to see bikes marketed as "A2" in the event that they meet the power requirements. This is particularly true for bikes that are more expensive and provide the highest level of performance.
The A2 licence can be a great opportunity to breathe new life into your bike. The A2 licence allows you to enjoy the fastest and most powerful bikes and it can also increase your confidence on the road. It will also allow you to save money on insurance since the majority of A2-ready bikes will be in group 10, while a fast superbike may be in group 19. The A2 licence is not an unrestricted motorcycle licence however it is a good way to build up your experience and build your confidence before making the leap to a full A licence.