Why Buy A1 and A2 Driver's Licenses?
The A1 licence offers 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 format of the licence, introduced in 2011, shows on a card that is laminated, the bearer's photo along with the date and type of issue, along with their name. You can get these cards at driving schools as well as ongoing training centers.
What is an A1 license?
The A1 licence is the initial step for youngsters who want to ride a motorcycle or scooter. It is the only licence that 17 and 18-year-olds can obtain which allows them to ride on bikes up to 125cc. It also allows you to carry a passenger, ride on motorways and not be required to display learner plates on the front and rear.
Getting an A1 license doesn't mean you can get any bike you want, but it's an excellent opportunity to learn how to ride a budget-friendly bike, with the added benefit of being able to move to the next level (Restricted A2 Licence for 19-23 year olds or Direct Access Scheme A Licence for older than 24 years).
You must be 16 years old to take the Compulsory Basic Training (CBT). The course is split into two parts: theory lessons and riding. The theory lessons are focused around road rules and hazards awareness.
In the hands-on sessions, you will master the fundamental abilities required to operate a motorbike or scooter. This includes manoeuvring the bike in a figure eight, wheeling it and a slow control. You'll have to pass both the theory and the practical tests to earn your A1 license.
After two years of driving an A1 bike you can upgrade to an A2 bike with more power If you are not happy with the performance. This will require you to repeat the CBT and pass a practical test on the new bike.
Honda offers a variety of bikes you can choose from if you are contemplating upgrading your A1 license. From the comfortable and practical Honda CB125F, to the sporty Honda MSX125G 'Grom' there's something for all. When selecting a Honda motorcycle to get your A1 license, it's important to consider your budget, your preferences and your intended use. For instance, if you're planning to use your A1 bike for daily commutes, it's best to go with 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 and more powerful bikes but aren't quite ready for the full A license. You can obtain this license before the age of 19 and will allow you to drive an engine that is not more than 35 kW or 47bhp. It also allows you to carry a pillion rider and ride on motorways.
After successfully passing your CBT and Motorcycle Theory Test, you can start training for your A2 license. This will take anywhere from a few weeks to a few months, depending on when you book an event and the number of training hours you need. The cost of A2 training for your licence will differ according to your needs and the duration of the course. Prices begin at PS400 for short introduction courses and range up to the PS900+ range for complete training including mod 1 and 2.
Mod 1 and Mod 2 are the two parts of your practical test that you must pass to obtain an A2 license. You can take these tests on any bike that has the requirements for power output of the A2 license. It is commonplace for dealers and online sellers to advertise their bikes as 'A2' bikes - therefore, make sure you check the specifications prior to purchasing one of them as not all be able to meet the specifications.
Once you have successfully passed your A2 driving test, you can remove your L-plates and enjoy riding your more powerful motorbike. You can also carry a passenger as well as take a ride on motorways. And of course, you don't have to display your learner plates in front and rear.
If you decide to upgrade from A1 to a full A licence, you will have to complete the entire training program again, including both parts of the practical test, but it can be much faster and less stressful if already have experience with the higher level of bike.
The A1 licence is valid for two years and after that you may choose to take a practical exam for the A licence - though you should be aware that the full A license will restrict your ability to drive in certain vehicles and also increases the legal alcohol limit for drivers to 80mg/100ml.
How do I get an A1 license?
The first step to obtaining an A1 license is to complete a Compulsory Basic Training (CBT) Course. This course will give you the skills and knowledge you need to be able to ride a two-wheeler in a safe manner. This includes road rules, hazard awareness and motorcycle-specific laws. You will also learn how to operate the vehicle as well as 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 revision book from the DVSA to help you get through the test. The next step is to take your practical A1 licence test, which gives you the freedom to ride a moped of up to 125cc with no plates, or carry a pillion rider. This is a more comprehensive test than the CBT and will include manoeuvring tasks like cycling the bike and then doing a figure of eight.
After two years, if you are older than 19, you can upgrade from an A1 license to an A2 licence. This will allow you to ride motorcycles or scooters up to 125cc with 11kW and without L plates. Then, you can upgrade to the full A license by taking the Direct Access route once you're 24 or older.
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 future, you should be able to pass your A2 test to upgrade your license category. It's also worth taking additional training once you've completed your CBT, as this will enhance your riding skills and increase get more info your confidence.
If you're looking for an efficient and versatile motorbike or scooter to begin your journey towards getting your A1 licence Our range of Honda bikes is the ideal place to start. Honda Monkey, CB125F, and MSX125 are some 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 obtain an A2 license?
A2 is an altered version of the full category A motorcycle license. The licence permits you to ride on scooters and motorbikes that have engines larger than 125cc, and a maximum power output of 35 kW (47bhp). The licence also allows you to carry passengers on pillion and to ride on motorways. The licence can be obtained when you are 19 or older and will assist in speeding the process of upgrading to a full A license through progressive access.
The first step in obtaining an A2 license is obtaining an CBT. This one-day course will cost you between PS70 and PS100. It will teach you how to ride a motorbike or a scooter. The course includes both theoretical and practical instruction.
After you've completed your CBT you are now able to move on to take the A2 Restricted Motorcycle Test. The test is split into two sections: Modules 1 and 2. Both tests will require you to bring a bicycle that meets the minimum cc requirements of A2. This bike must be equipped with an engine of at least 395cc and a maximum power output of 37bhp.
After passing the A2 Restricted Motorcycle Test you can now ride any motorbike or scooter with an engine that is larger than 125cc. This includes the majority of scooters. In dealerships and online it is commonplace to see bikes advertised as "A2" when they meet power requirements. This is particularly applicable to bikes that are more expensive and have more performance.
The A2 license can breathe new life into a bike. Getting your A2 licence will allow you to enjoy the fastest and most powerful bikes and it can also make you much more confident on the road. It can also help you save money on insurance since the majority of A2-ready motorcycles will be in group 10, while the fastest superbike could be in group 19. The A2 license isn't an unrestricted motorcycle license however it could be an excellent opportunity to build your experience and build your confidence before making the jump to a full A licence.