Why Buy A1 and A2 Driver's Licenses?
The A1 licence offers an upgrade in riding and training rights as compared to Compulsory Basic Training (CBT). The size of the engine on motorcycles that have an A1 licence is limited to 125cc.
The new design of the licence, introduced in 2011 displays on a laminated card the bearer's picture as well as the date and the category of issue, as well as their name. These cards are sold at driving schools and training centres.
What is an A1 license?
The A1 is the first step in riding a motorcycle or scooter for young people. It's the only license 17 and 18 year olds can take and allows them to ride bikes with a capacity of up to 125cc without L plates. It also allows you to carry a passenger or ride on motorways, and not need to display learner plates in front and rear.
The process of getting an A1 license doesn't mean that you can buy any bike you want, but it's an excellent way to learn to ride a budget-friendly bike, 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 those aged 24 and over).
You must be 16 years old to take the Compulsory Basic Training (CBT). This is a two-part course that consists of theory classes as well as practical riding. The theory lessons are focused on road rules and hazard awareness.
In the practical sessions you'll be taught the fundamental techniques to operate a motorcycle or scooter. This includes manoeuvring in a figure of eight, wheeling the bike and a slow speed control. To obtain your A1 license you'll need to pass both the theory and practical test.
If you're not satisfied with the performance of your A1 bike, you can upgrade to a more powerful A2 bike after two years as an A1 driver. This will require you to retake the CBT and pass a practice 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 that are available. There's something for everyone starting with the practical and comfortable Honda CB125F all the way to the sporty Honda MSX125G "Grom". It's important to consider your preferences, budget and intended use when choosing a Honda motorcycle to get your A1 licence. For instance, if you're planning to use your A1 motorbike for daily commutes, it's best to go with a commuter-style model such as the Honda CB125F.
What is A2 license?
The A2 licence is a great option for those who want to ride larger more powerful bikes, but aren't yet ready to get a full A licence. You can obtain this licence before the age of 19 and allows you to ride a bike that produces no more than 35 kW or 47bhp. You can also carry a passenger on a pillion and ride on motorways.
If you successfully pass your CBT and Motorcycle Theory Test you can begin your training for the A2 licence, which can take between a few weeks to a few months, depending on the speed at which you are able to book onto a course, and how many hours of training you will need. The cost of A2 training for your licence varies based on the duration of the course and your requirements. Prices start at around PS400 for a quick introduction course, and increase to PS900+ for full training including mod 1 and mod 2.
Mod 1 and Mod 2 are the two components of your practical test that you must pass to get an A2 license. You can test on any bike that has the requirements for power output of the A2 license. It is typical for dealers and online sellers to advertise their bikes as 'A2' bikes - so here be sure to check the specifications before you purchase one of them as not all of them will satisfy the requirements of the specification.
Once you have successfully passed your A2 driving licence you can take off your L-plates, and begin riding your more powerful motorbike. You can also carry passengers and take a ride on motorways. And of course, you don't be required to display your learner plates front and rear.
If you decide to upgrade your A1 licence to a full-A license, you'll need to finish the entire program again including the two sections of the practical exam. However, it can be easier and less stressful if your bike is already at a higher level.
The A1 licence is valid for two years, and after that you can choose to pass an exam in order to upgrade to the A licence. However, you must remember that the full A license can limit the 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 you need to be able to ride a two-wheeler safely. This includes the rules of the road such as hazard perception, specific regulations for motorcycles. You will also learn how to operate the vehicle and carry out basic maintenance.
After you have completed your CBT it's time to take the Theory Test. It's a multiple-choice exam, so it's a good idea to purchase the official DVSA revision book to ensure you get through. The next step is to take your actual A1 licence test, which will give you the right to ride a moped of up to 125cc without plates or carry a pillion. This is a much more comprehensive exam than the CBT and includes manoeuvring tasks like wheeling your bike and completing an eight-figure figure.
After two years, if you are older than 19 you can upgrade from an A1 to an A2 licence. This will allow you to ride motorcycles and scooters up to 125cc with 11kW and without L plates. You can then upgrade to a full A licence through the Direct Access route once you're at least 24 years old.
Some riders prefer to keep their A1 licences for life. However, if you intend to upgrade to a bigger and more powerful bike in the near future you must be able to pass your A2 test to upgrade your licence category. It's also worth getting additional training after you've completed your CBT, as this will enhance your riding skills and increase your confidence.
If you're looking for a reliable and versatile motorbike or scooter to get started on your A1 license, our range of Honda bikes is an excellent place to begin. Honda Monkey, CB125F, and MSX125 are just a few of the bikes that combine performance and affordability. We can also help you find the best financing package to meet your needs.
How do I get an A2 license?
A2 is an altered version of the full category A motorcycle licence. This licence allows you ride on scooters and motorbikes that have engines larger than 125cc and a maximum power output of 35kW (47bhp). The licence permits you to ride on motorways and carry pillion riders. The licence is available when you are 19 or more and can aid in the process of converting to a full A licence through progressive access.
The first step to getting an A2 license is to get a CBT. This is a single-day course that will cost you around PS70-PS100 and will teach you the fundamentals of riding a motorbike or scooter. It consists of both practical and theory lessons.
After you've completed your CBT you will be able to proceed to take the A2 Restricted Motorcycle Test. This test is divided into two parts: Modules 1 & 2. You will need to bring your bike for both tests. It must meet the minimum cc requirement for A2. This bike must have an engine that is at least 395cc, with the maximum power output of 37bhp.
After passing the A2 Restricted Motorcycle Test you can ride any motorcycle or scooter that has an engine greater than 125cc. This includes all scooters. It is standard for sellers online and in dealerships to market bikes as "A2" if they meet the requirements for power output. This is particularly the case for higher-end bikes that have a higher level of performance.
The A2 licence can breathe new life into a bike. You can ride more powerful and faster bikes with your A2 licence. It will also give you more confidence on the road. You will also save money on your insurance because most A2-ready motorcycles are in the category of group 10, while a superbike that is fast could be in group 19. The A2 license isn't an unrestricted motorcycle permit however it is a good opportunity to build your experience and build your confidence before making the jump to a full A licence.