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 limited to 125cc engines.
The new design of the licence, introduced in 2011, displays on a laminated card bearer's picture, date and category of issue, along with their name. You can get these cards at driving schools and training centers.
What is A1 license?
The A1 licence is the first step for youngsters who want to ride a motorcycle or scooter. It's the only license that 17 and 18-year-olds can take and allows them to ride motorcycles up to 125cc without L plates. This also means that you can carry a passenger or ride on motorways, and not have to display learner plates front and rear.
The A1 license does not permit you to buy any bicycle, but it will allow you to master the art of ride on a tight budget. You can also move to the next level which is the Direct Access Scheme A Licence (for those aged 24 and older) or the Restricted A2 Licence (19-23 year olds).
You must be at least 16 years old to be able to take the Compulsory Base Training (CBT). This course is divided into two parts: theory lessons and riding. The theory lessons focus on road rules and hazard awareness.
In the hands-on sessions, you will master the fundamental skills required to operate a motorbike or scooter. This includes manoeuvring the bike in the figure eight, turning it and slow 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 to an A2 bike once you've completed two years as an A1 driver. However, this means you'll have to finish the CBT program again, and then take an actual test on the new bike.
If you're thinking of upgrading your A1 licence and you're thinking about taking a look at the variety of Honda bikes available to you. From the comfortable and practical Honda CB125F to the sporty Honda MSX125G 'Grom', there's something for all. It's important to think about your personal preferences, budget and purpose of use when selecting the Honda motorcycle to get your A1 licence. If you plan to use your A1 bike on daily commutes and commutes, then a commuter model like the Honda CB125F is a good choice.
What is A2 license?
The A2 licence is ideal for those who wish to ride larger, more powerful bikes, but aren't quite ready for the full A license. The licence is open to those aged 19 or older. It permits you to ride a bike with the maximum power of 35 kW (47bhp), carry a passenger, and drive on motorways.
After successfully passing your CBT and Motorcycle Theory Test, you are able to begin training for your A2 license. This will take between a few weeks to several months depending on when you sign up for an event and the number of training hours you need. The total cost of A2 training for your licence will differ depending on the requirements you have and the length of the course - prices start at PS400 for short introduction courses, and can be in the PS900+ range for full training including mod 1 and 2.
To obtain your A2 licence you must pass two sections of the practical test that you must pass - Mod 1 and Mod 2 which you can take on any bike that is road legal and meets the power output requirements of the A2 licence. It is typical for dealers and online sellers to advertise their bikes as 'A2' bikes - therefore, make sure you check the specifications before you purchase one, as not all of them will satisfy the requirements of the specification.
After you have passed your A2 driving licence you can take off your L-plates, and begin riding your more powerful motorbike. You can also take a ride on motorways with an additional passenger and won't be required to display the learner plates in front and back.
If you decide to upgrade from your A1 license to a full A licence, you will have to complete the entire training program in addition to both parts of the practical test, but it can be much faster and less stressful if you already have experience with the higher level of bike.
The A1 license is valid for two years. After this, you are able to choose to take a test to upgrade to an A license. However, you should be read more aware that the A licence is not a permit to drive certain vehicles. It also increases the legal limit of alcohol for drivers to 80mg/100ml.
How do I obtain an A1 license?
The first step towards getting an A1 license is to complete a Compulsory Basic Training (CBT) Course. This course will provide you with all the skills and knowledge that you need to ride a two-wheeler in a safe manner. This includes the road rules as well as hazard perception and motorcycle-specific regulations. You will also learn to operate the vehicle as well as 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 taking your actual A1 licence test, which will give you the freedom to ride a moped up to 125cc without L plates or carry a pillion. This is a more comprehensive test than the CBT and will include maneuvering exercises such as cycling the bike and then performing a figure of 8.
If you're over 19 you can upgrade your A1 license to an A2 license after two years, which allows you to ride a scooter or motorcycle that is 125cc or 11kW without L plates or carrying a passenger. When you reach 24 you can upgrade up to a full A license through Direct Access.
There are certain riders who prefer to remain on an A1 licence for life however if you're looking to upgrade to bigger and more powerful bikes in the near future, it's best to pass your A2 test to allow you to upgrade your category of licence. It's also worth having additional training after having completed your CBT, as this will enhance your riding skills and boost your confidence.
Our Honda range is the ideal starting point in the search for a reliable and affordable scooter or motorbike that will help you get your A1 license. Honda Monkey, CB125F, and MSX125 are just a few of the bikes that are able to combine performance and affordability. We can also help you choose the best finance plan to suit your needs.
How do I obtain an A2 license?
An A2 licence is a restricted version of a category A full motorcycle licence. It permits you to use scooters and motorbikes with engines larger than 125cc, and a maximum power output of 35 kW (47bhp). The licence also allows you to carry pillion passengers and ride on motorways. The licence is available to those who are over the age of 19, and can speed the process of upgrading to a full-A license through progressive access.
The first step in obtaining an A2 license is to obtain the CBT (Certificate of Basic Training). The one-day course costs between PS70 and PS100. It will teach you how to use a motorbike or scooter. It is a combination of practical and theory lessons.
After passing your CBT, you are able to take the A2 Restricted Motorbike Test. This test is divided into two parts: Modules 1 & 2. Both tests will require you to bring a bicycle that is in compliance with the minimum cc requirements for A2. The bike must have an engine capacity of at least 395cc, and must have a maximum restricted power output of 35kW (47bhp).
If you pass your A2 Restricted Motorcycle Test, you will be able to ride any scooter or motorcycle that has an engine larger than 125cc. This is the case with most scooters. On the internet and in dealerships it is commonplace to see bikes marketed as "A2" when they meet the power requirements. This is especially true for more expensive bikes that offer a greater quality of performance.
The A2 license can breathe fresh life into the bike. You can ride more powerful and faster bikes with your A2 licence. It also gives you more confidence on the road. It can also help you save money on insurance because the majority of A2-ready bikes will be in group 10, while the fastest superbike could be in group 19. The A2 licence isn't an unrestricted motorcycle permit however it is a good opportunity to build your experience and confidence before making the leap to an A licence.