Why Buy A1 and A2 Driver's Licenses?
The A1 licence gives you a step up in riding and training privileges compared to the Compulsory Basic Training (CBT). The size of the engine on motorcycles with an A1 licence is restricted to 125cc.
The new license format, that was introduced in 2011 shows the name of the person who is holding it, their photo as well as the date of issue and categories that are allowed on the laminated plastic card. These cards are available at driving schools and training centres.
What is an A1 license?
The A1 is the first step towards driving a motorcycle or a scooter for children. It's the only license 17 and 18 year olds are able to obtain and allows them to ride bikes with a capacity of up to 125cc with no L plates. You can also carry a person and ride on motorways without needing to display learner's licenses on the front and back.
Achieving an A1 license doesn't mean that you can ride any bike you want, but it is a great opportunity to learn how to ride on a budget, 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 older than 24 years).
You must be at least 16 prior to taking the Compulsory Basic Training (CBT) course. The course is split into two parts: theoretical lessons and riding. The theory lessons concentrate on the rules of the road and hazard perception.
In the sessions that are practical, you'll learn the essential abilities to operate a motorbike or scooter. This includes manoeuvring the bike in the figure eight, turning it and slow control. To obtain your A1 license you'll need to pass both the theory and practical test.
After two years of driving an A1 bike you can upgrade to a more powerful A2 bike if you are not satisfied with the power. This will require you to retake the CBT and pass a practical test on the new bike.
If you're considering upgrading your A1 licence, then you should consider taking a look at the variety of Honda bikes available to you. There's something for everyone starting with the practical and comfortable Honda CB125F to the sporty Honda MSX125G "Grom". When choosing a Honda motorcycle to get your A1 license, it's crucial that you take into consideration your budget, your preferences and your intended use. For instance, if you're planning to use your A1 motorbike for everyday commuting, it's best to select an e-bike like the Honda CB125F.
What is A2 license?
The A2 licence is perfect for people who want to ride larger and more powerful bikes, but aren't yet ready to get the full A licence. This license is available to those aged 19 or older. It allows you to ride a bike that has a maximum power of 35 kW (47bhp) and carry a passenger, and drive on motorways.
If you pass your CBT and Motorcycle Theory Test you can begin training for your A2 licence, which can take anywhere from a few weeks to a few months depending on when you are able to book onto a course, and how many hours of training you need. The total cost of A2 training will vary depending on the requirements you have and the duration of the course. Prices start from around PS400 for short introduction courses, and can be in the PS900+ range for full training including mod 1 and 2.
To obtain your A2 license, you must pass two portions of the practical test - Mod 1 and Mod 2 - which you can complete on any bike that is road legal and meets the power output limitations of the A2 licence. It is typical for online and dealership sellers to advertise their bikes as 'A2 bikes' - therefore, make sure you check the specs when choosing one of them as not all of them will meet the specification requirements.
Once you have successfully passed your A2 driving licence you can remove your L-plates and enjoy riding your more powerful motorbike. You can also ride on motorways with a passenger, and you won't have to display the learner plates front and back.
If you decide to upgrade from your A1 licence to a full A license, you will have to complete the entire training program again, including both parts of the practical test, but it can be much faster and less stressful if already have experience with the higher grade of bike.
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 - though you must be aware more info that the full A license can limit your ability to drive in certain vehicles and also increases the legal alcohol limit for drivers to 80mg/100ml.
How do I obtain an A1 license?
The first step to obtaining an A1 license is to complete a Compulsory Basic Training (CBT) Course. This course will teach you all the knowledge and skills you require to operate a two-wheeler safely. This includes rules of the road, hazard-awareness and motorcycle-specific laws. You'll also learn how to handle the vehicle and perform essential maintenance.
After you've completed your CBT and completed your CBT, you're now ready to take the test in theory. This is a multiple-choice exam and you should buy the official expert revision guide from the DVSA to ensure you pass. Next, you will take the actual A1 test. This will allow you to ride a moped up to 130cc without plates and also carry the passenger. This is a much more comprehensive exam than the CBT and covers manoeuvring exercises such as dragging your bike and the completion of an eight-figure figure.
After two years, if you are older than 19, you can upgrade from an A1 licence to an A2 licence. This permits you to ride motorcycles or scooters up to 125cc with 11kW and without L plates. You can then upgrade to the full A licence through the Direct Access route once you're 24 or older.
There are certain riders who would rather stay on an A1 licence for life however, if you'd like to upgrade to bigger and more powerful bikes in the near future, it's a good idea to get through your A2 test to allow you to upgrade your licence category. After you've completed your CBT it's worth considering additional training to improve your riding skills and increase your confidence.
Our Honda range is the ideal starting point in the search for a reliable and affordable motorbike or scooter that can help you obtain your A1 license. Honda Monkey, CB125F, and MSX125 are some of the bikes that combine the best of both worlds in terms of performance and affordability. We can also assist you to find the right finance package to meet your requirements.
How do I apply for an A2 license?
A2 is an altered version of the category A motorcycle licence. This licence allows you ride on scooters and motorbikes that have engines that are larger than 125cc and a maximum power of 35 kW (47bhp). The licence allows you to use motorways and transport pillion riders. The licence is available from the age of 19 or older and will help speed up the process of upgrading to a full A license by using progressive access.
The first step towards obtaining an A2 license is to obtain a CBT. It is a one-day training which will cost between PS70-PS100. It will teach you the fundamentals of riding a motorbike or scooter. The course includes both theoretical and practical instruction.
After you've completed your CBT you can then move on to taking the A2 Restricted Motorcycle Test. The test is divided into two parts: Modules 1 & 2. You will need to bring your bike for both tests. It must be able to meet the minimum requirement for cc for A2. This bike should 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'll be able to ride any motorcycle or scooter with an engine larger than 125cc. This includes most scooters. It is common for sellers online and in dealerships to advertise bikes under the designation "A2" when they have the power output requirements. This is especially true for bikes that are more expensive and provide the highest level of performance.
The A2 license can breathe fresh life into a bike. Getting your A2 licence allows you to enjoy more powerful and faster bikes and can make you much more confident on the road. It can also help you save money on insurance since the majority of A2-ready bikes will be in group 10, while an ultra-fast bike could be in group 19. The A2 licence is not an unrestricted motorcycle permit however it is an excellent way to build up your knowledge and confidence before you make the leap to a full A licence.