Why Buy A1 and A2 Driver's Licenses?
The A1 licence gives you a step up in training and riding privileges in comparison to the Compulsory Basic Training (CBT). A1 motorcycles are restricted to 125cc engines.
The new design of the licence, introduced in 2011, displays on a laminated card the bearer's photo as well as the date and the category of issue, as well as their name. The cards are available at driving schools and training centres.
What is an A1 licence?
The A1 licence is the first step for youngsters who want to drive a motorbike or scooter. It is the only license that teenagers aged 17-18 can obtain, allowing them to drive bikes up to 125cc. It also means you can carry an additional passenger as well as ride on motorways and not have to display learner plates front and rear.
Getting an A1 licence doesn't mean you can ride any bike you would like, but it's an excellent way to learn 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 must be 16 years old to enroll in the Compulsory Base Training (CBT). This course is divided into two parts: theoretical lessons and riding. The theory lessons are focused on road rules and hazard awareness.
In the hands-on sessions, you'll learn the essential techniques to operate a motorcycle or scooter. This includes manoeuvring in an eight-point figure, wheeling the bike and slow control. To get your A1 license you'll need both the theory and the practice test.
If you're not satisfied with the power of your A1 bike, you can upgrade to a more powerful A2 bike after completing two years as an A1 driver. This means that you'll have to finish the CBT program again and pass an actual test on the new bike.
If you're considering upgrading your A1 licence and you're thinking about 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 the Honda motorcycle to get your A1 license, it's crucial to consider your budget, your preferences and your intended use. For instance, if planning to use your A1 motorcycle for daily commutes, it's best to go with an e-bike like the Honda CB125F.
What is A2 license?
The A2 licence is perfect for those who want to ride bigger and more powerful bikes, but aren't yet ready to get a full A licence. You can obtain this license before the age of 19 and allows you to ride bikes that produce no more than 35 kW or 47bhp, carry a pillion passenger and use motorways.
If you succeed in passing your CBT and Motorcycle Theory Test you can begin your training for the A2 licence, which can take anywhere from a few days to a few months based on the speed at which you are able to sign onto a course, and how much training you will need. The cost of A2 licence training will vary depending on your requirements and the duration of the course. Prices begin at PS400 for short introduction courses and may be in the PS900+ range for complete training, including mod 1 and 2.
To obtain your A2 licence you must pass two portions of the practical test to be eligible for the licence. Mod 1 and Mod 2 which you can take on any bike that is road-legal and meets the power output restrictions of the A2 licence. Dealerships and online sellers often advertise their bikes as "A2 bikes" - be sure to examine the specifications before purchasing one, as not all will conform to the specifications.
After passing your A2 driving test, you can take off your L plates and ride an even more powerful motorbike. You can also carry a passenger and ride 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 license to a full A licence, you will have to complete the entire training programme in addition to both aspects of the practical test, but it can be much quicker and less stressful if are already used to the higher levels of bike.
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 - though you must remember that the full A licence will restrict your ability to drive certain types of vehicles and will also increase the legal limit for alcohol consumption for drivers to 80mg/100ml.
How do I apply for an A1 license?
The first step to obtaining an A1 license is to complete a Compulsory Basic Training (CBT) Course. This course will provide you with all the skills and knowledge you need to ride a two-wheeler safely. This includes road rules, hazard awareness and specific laws for motorcycles. You will also learn to operate the vehicle and carry out basic maintenance.
After you've completed your CBT It's time to take the test in theory. It's a multiple-choice test and you should purchase the official expert revision guide from the DVSA to help you pass. The next step is to take the practical A1 test. This will allow you to ride a körkort online moped as high as 130cc without plates and to carry a passenger. This is a much more comprehensive test than the CBT and will include maneuvering exercises like riding the bike on wheels and completing a figure of eight.
After two years, if you are older than 19 you can upgrade from an A1 to an A2 licence. This allows you to drive motorcycles or scooters with 125cc capacity and 11kW and without L plates. You can then upgrade to the full A licence through the Direct Access route once you're at least 24 years old.
There are some riders who prefer to stay on an A1 license for the rest of their lives, but if you want to upgrade to bigger and more powerful bikes in the future it's best to pass your A2 test so that you can upgrade your category of licence. It's also worthwhile to consider getting additional training after you've completed your CBT and CBT, since this will enhance your riding skills and boost your confidence.
If you're seeking an affordable and reliable scooter or motorbike to get started on your A1 licence, our range of Honda bikes is an excellent place to begin. Honda Monkey, CB125F, and MSX125 are just a few of the bikes that are able to 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 needs.
How do I get an A2 license?
A2 is an upgraded version of the category A motorcycle license. This licence allows you use scooters and motorbikes with engine sizes greater than 125cc and a maximum power of 35 kW (47bhp). The licence also permits you to carry passengers on pillion and ride on motorways. The licence is available from the age of 19 or over and can aid in the process of converting to a full A license through progressive access.
The first step in getting an A2 license is to obtain the CBT (Certificate of Basic Training). This one-day course costs between PS70 and PS100. It will teach you how to ride a motorbike or scooter. It consists of both theory and practice.
After passing your CBT you are able to take the A2 Restricted Motorbike Test. This test is divided into two parts: Modules 1 and 2. You will need to bring your bike for both tests. It must meet the minimum cc requirement for A2. This bike should have an engine size of at least 395cc and must have a maximum limitable power output of 35kW (47bhp).
After passing the A2 Restricted Motorcycle Test you can ride any motorcycle or scooter with an engine that is larger than 125cc. This includes most scooters. In dealerships and online it is commonplace to see bikes advertised as "A2" in the event that they meet power requirements. This is particularly the case for higher-end bikes that have a higher quality of performance.
The A2 license can breathe new life into a bike. The A2 licence allows you to enjoy the fastest and most powerful bikes and it can also make you much more confident on the road. It will also help you save money on insurance as most A2-ready bikes will be in group 10, while an ultra-fast bike could be in group 19. The A2 motorcycle licence is not a license that allows you to ride any motorbike. However it will help you gain experience and confidence before upgrading to the full A licence.