Why Buy A1 and A2 Driver's Licenses?
The A1 license allows for an upgrade in training and riding rights compared to Compulsory Base Training (CBT). The size of the engine on motorcycles with an A1 licence is limited to 125cc.
The new format of the licence, which was introduced in 2011, shows on a laminated card bearer's photo as well as the date and the category of issue, as well as their name. You can find these cards at driving schools and ongoing training centers.
What is A1 license?
The A1 is the first step in riding a motorcycle or scooter for children. It is the only license that teenagers aged 17-18 are able to obtain, allowing them to drive bikes up to 125cc. You can also carry a person and use motorways without having to display learner's licenses on the front and back.
Achieving an A1 licence doesn't mean you can buy any bike you want, but it's a great opportunity to learn how to ride on a budget with the added benefit of being able to progress to the next level (Restricted A2 Licence for 19 - 23 year olds or Direct Access Scheme A Licence for 24 years and over).
You need to be at least 16 years old before taking the Compulsory Basic Training (CBT) course. It's a two-part course that consists of theory classes and practical riding. The theory lessons are focused on road rules and hazard perception.
In the practical sessions you will learn the basic techniques required to operate a scooter or motorbike. 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 the practice test.
If you're not happy with the power of your A1 bike, then you can upgrade it for a higher-powered A2 bike after two years as an A1 driver. This will need you to take a second CBT and pass a test on the practical test on the new bike.
Honda has a wide range of bikes to pick from when considering upgrading your A1 license. From the practical and comfortable Honda CB125F, to the sporty Honda MSX125G "Grom", there's something for everyone. It's important to think about your budget, preferences and purpose of use when selecting a Honda motorcycle for your A1 licence. For instance, if planning to use your A1 bike for daily commutes, it's best to choose a commuter-style model such as 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 for an A licence. You can get this license before the age of 19 and allows you to ride a bike that produces no more than 35 kW or 47bhp. It also allows you to carry a pillion rider and take a ride on motorways.
After passing your CBT and Motorcycle Theory Test, you are able to begin training for your A2 license. This will take anywhere from a few days to several months depending on when you sign up for an event and the number of training hours you need. The cost of A2 training for your licence varies based on the length of the training and the requirements you have. Prices start around PS400 for a short introduction course, and be as high as PS900plus for a full course, including mod 1 and mod 2.
To get your A2 license, you must pass two sections of the test in practice to be eligible for the licence. Mod 1 and Mod 2 that you can pass on any bike that is road-legal and meets the power output requirements of the A2 licence. Dealerships and online sellers frequently market their bikes as "A2 bikes" Make sure you examine the specifications before purchasing one since not all be able to meet the requirements of the specifications.
Once you have completed your A2 driving licence you can remove your L-plates and enjoy riding your more powerful motorbike. You can also carry a passenger and travel on motorways. And of course you will not need to display your learner plates in front and rear.
If you decide to upgrade your A1 licence to a full-A licence, you will need to complete the entire program again which includes the two parts of the practical exam. However, it may be less time-consuming and less stressful if the bike is already at an upper level.
The A1 licence is valid for two years and after that, you may choose to take a practical exam to move up to the A licence. However, you must be aware that the A licence is a restriction on your ability to drive certain vehicles and also increases the legal limit for alcohol consumption for drivers to 80mg/100ml.
How do I get an A1 license?
The first step in gaining an A1 licence is to complete the Compulsory Basic Training (CBT) course, which will teach you the fundamental skills and knowledge you require to safely ride on two-wheelers. This includes the road rules, hazard perception and motorcycle-specific regulations. You will also learn to operate the vehicle and perform basic maintenance.
Once you've completed your CBT, it's time to take the test in theory. It's a multiple choice test, and it's best to purchase the official expert revision book from the DVSA to ensure you pass. The next step is to take the practice A1 test. This test will permit you to ride a moped as high as 130cc without plates and carry a passenger. This is a more comprehensive test than the CBT and will include maneuvering exercises such as cycling the bike and then completing a figure of eight.
After two years, if are over 19, you can upgrade from an A1 licence to an A2 licence. This permits you to ride motorcycles and scooters with 125cc capacity and 11kW and without L plates. Then, you can upgrade to a full A licence via the Direct Access route once you're older than 24.
There are some riders who prefer to remain on an A1 license for life however if you're looking to move up to bigger and more powerful bikes in the future it's a good idea to get through your A2 test to allow you to upgrade your category of licence. It's also worth considering having additional training after having completed your CBT and CBT, since this will further improve your riding skills and boost your confidence.
If you're looking for an affordable and reliable scooter or motorbike to start your journey towards obtaining your A1 license, our range of Honda bikes is an excellent place to begin. We have bikes like the Honda Monkey, CB125F and MSX125 that provide a mix of efficiency and affordability. We can also assist you to find the right finance package that meets your requirements.
How do I get an A2 license?
A2 is an altered version of the full category A motorcycle licence. It permits you to ride motorbikes and scooters that have an engine size greater than 125cc and a maximum power output of 35kW (47bhp). The licence allows you to ride on motorways and transport Pillion riders. The licence is open to all who are 19 or over, and can speed the process of upgrading to a full-A licence by allowing progressive access.
The first step in getting an A2 license is to get the CBT (Certificate of Basic Training). It is a one-day training that will cost you around PS70-PS100. It will teach you the fundamentals of riding a scooter or motorbike. The course will include both practical and theoretical lessons.
After completing your CBT, you are now able to move on to take the A2 Restricted Motorcycle Test. The test is comprised get more info of two sections: Module 1 and Module 2. You'll need to bring your bike to both tests. It must meet the minimum cc requirement for A2. This bike must have an engine that is at least 395cc, with a maximum power output of 37bhp.
Once you pass your A2 Restricted Motorcycle Test, you'll be able ride any scooter or motorcycle with an engine that is larger than 125cc. This is the case with most scooters. In dealerships and online, it is common to see bikes marketed as "A2" in the event that they meet power requirements. This is especially the case for higher-end bikes that offer a greater quality of performance.
The A2 licence can breathe new life into bikes. Achieving your A2 licence will allow you to enjoy more powerful and faster bikes and it can also help you feel more confident on the road. You can also save money on your insurance as the majority of A2-ready bikes will fall into the category of group 10, while a superbike that is fast may be in the group 19. The A2 licence isn't an unrestricted motorcycle licence however it could be an excellent method to gain experience and confidence before making the leap to a full A licence.