Why Buy A1 and A2 Driver's Licenses?
The A1 license allows for an upgrade in training and riding rights as compared to Compulsory Basic Training (CBT). A1 motorcycles are restricted to 125cc engines.
The new license format, that was introduced in 2011 shows the name of the bearer, his photo, date of issue and allowed categories on a laminated plastic card. You can get these cards at driving schools as well as ongoing training centres.
What is an A1 licence?
The A1 licence is the initial step for young people wanting to drive a motorbike or scooter. It is the only licence that those aged 17-18 years old are able to obtain which allows them to drive bikes up to 125cc. You can also carry a person and travel on motorways without having to display learner's licenses on the both front and back.
The A1 license does not permit you to buy any bike, but it allows you to learn how to ride on a tight budget. You can also progress to the next level which is the Direct Access Scheme A Licence (for people aged 24 and over) or the Restricted A2 Licence (19-23 year olds).
You need to be at least 16 prior to taking the Compulsory Basic training (CBT) course. It's a two-part course that involves theory lessons and practical riding. The theory lessons are centered around road rules and hazard awareness.
In the hands-on sessions, you'll learn the essential techniques to operate a motorcycle or scooter. This includes maneuvering the bike in the figure eight, turning it and a slow control. To get your A1 license, you'll need both the theory and the practice test.
If you're not happy with the performance of your A1 bike, then you may want to upgrade it to an A2 bike after two years as an A1 driver. This will require you to retake the CBT and pass a test on the practical test on the new bike.
Honda offers a variety of bikes you can pick from when contemplating upgrading your A1 license. From the practical and comfortable Honda CB125F to the more sporty Honda MSX125G 'Grom' there's something for everyone. When choosing a Honda motorcycle to get your A1 licence, it's essential that you take into consideration your budget and preferences, as well as your intention of using the motorcycle. For instance, if planning to use your A1 motorcycle for everyday commuting, it's best to select one that is a commuter model like the Honda CB125F.
What is A2 license?
The A2 license is perfect for those who want to ride larger more powerful bikes but aren't quite ready for the full A license. You can obtain this licence from the age of 19 and it will allow you to drive bikes that produce no more than 35 kW or 47bhp. It also allows you to carry a pillion rider and use motorways.
After having passed your CBT and Motorcycle Theory Test, you can start training for your A2 license. This will take anywhere from a few days to several months depending on when you book an event and the number of hours of training you require. The cost of A2 license training is contingent on the length of the course and your requirements. Prices start at PS400 for a short introduction course and can be as high as PS900+ for full training including mod 1 and mod 2.
Mod 1 and Mod 2 are the two elements of your test which you must pass to obtain an A2 license. You can take these tests on any bike that meets the requirements for power output in the A2 license. It is commonplace for dealers and online sellers to advertise their bikes as 'A2' bikes - so be sure to check the specifications prior to purchasing one of them as not all of them will be able to meet the specifications.
Once you have completed your A2 driving test, you are able to take off your L-plates, and begin riding your more powerful motorbike. You can also ride on motorways with a passenger and won't need to display the learner plates in the front and back.
If you decide to upgrade your A1 licence to a full-A licence, you'll need to finish the entire program once more which includes the two parts of the test. However, it can 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 an exam in order to upgrade to the A licence. However, you should be aware that the A licence can limit your ability to drive certain types of vehicles and also raises 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 give you the skills and knowledge that you need to ride on two wheels safely. This includes the rules of the road such as hazard perception, motorcycle-specific regulations. You'll also be taught how to operate the vehicle and perform necessary maintenance.
After you have completed your CBT it is time to take the Theory Test. It's a multiple choice test and it's recommended to purchase the official expert revision guide from the DVSA to help you pass. The next step is taking the practice A1 test. This test will permit you to ride a moped up to 130cc without plates and also carry the passenger. This is a more thorough test than the CBT and will include maneuvering exercises like riding the bike on wheels 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 allows you to ride motorcycles and scooters with 125cc capacity and 11kW and without L plates. You can then upgrade to the full A license via the Direct Access route once you're 24 or older.
Some riders prefer to keep their A1 licenses for life. If you plan to upgrade to a larger and more powerful bike in the near future, you should pass your A2 test to upgrade your license category. After completing your CBT it's worth considering additional training to improve your riding skills and increase your confidence.
Our Honda range is a great place to start in the search for a low-cost and reliable motorbike or scooter that will help you get your A1 license. We have bikes like the Honda Monkey, CB125F and MSX125 which offer a blend of quality and affordability. We can also help you choose the best finance plan to suit your requirements.
How do I obtain an A2 license?
A2 is an upgraded version of the full category A motorcycle license. This licence allows you use scooters and motorbikes with engine sizes greater than 125cc, and a maximum output of 35kW (47bhp). The licence permits you to travel on motorways and transport Pillion riders. The licence is available to those who are over the age of 19, and can speed the process of upgrading to a full-A licence by allowing progressive access.
The first step in obtaining an A2 licence is obtaining a CBT (Certificate of Basic Training). It is a one-day training that costs between PS70-PS100. It will teach you the fundamentals of riding a motorbike or scooter. The course will include both theoretical and practical instruction.
After you have passed your CBT, you can take the A2 Restricted Motorbike Test. The test is comprised of two sections: Module 1 and Module 2. Both tests will require you to bring a bike that meets the minimum cc requirements of A2. The bike must have an engine size of at least 395cc, and must have a maximum restricted power output of 35kW (47bhp).
After passing the A2 Restricted Motorcycle Test you can now ride any motorbike or scooter that has an engine larger than 125cc. This includes most scooters. It is common for sellers online and in dealerships to market bikes under the designation "A2" in the event that they meet the required power output. This is particularly applicable to more expensive bikes that offer a greater level of performance.
The A2 licence is a great method to inject new life into your bike. The A2 licence allows you to ride more powerful and faster bikes, and will help you feel more confident on the road. It will also allow you to save money on insurance since the majority körkortsintyg online of A2-ready motorcycles will be in group 10, whereas an ultra-fast bike could be in group 19. The A2 motorcycle licence is not a license that permits you to ride any motorbike. However, it will assist you in gaining experience and confidence prior to upgrading to the full A licence.