Why Buy A1 and A2 Driver's Licenses?
The A1 licence offers a step-up in terms of riding and training in comparison to the Compulsory Basic Training (CBT). A1 motorcycles are restricted to 125cc engines.
The new licence format, introduced in 2011, displays the name of the bearer, his photo as well as the date of issue and allowed categories on the laminated plastic card. These cards are available at driving schools and training centres.
What is A1 license?
The A1 is the first step to riding a motorcycle or scooter for youngsters. It's the only licence 17 & 18 year olds are able to obtain and allows them to ride bikes up to 125cc with no plates for L plates. This also means that you can carry passengers, ride on motorways and not need to display learner plates front and rear.
The process of getting an A1 license doesn't mean you can buy any bike you want, but it is an excellent opportunity to learn to ride a budget-friendly bike, with the added benefit of being able to advance 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 at least 16 years old before taking the Compulsory Basic training (CBT) course. This course is split into two parts: theory lessons and riding. The theory lessons concentrate on the rules of the road and hazard perception.
In the practical sessions you will be taught the fundamental skills required to operate a scooter or motorbike. This includes manoeuvring the bike in an eight-point figure, driving it, and a slow-speed control. You'll have to pass both the theory and the practical tests in order to get your A1 licence.
After two years of riding an A1 bike you can upgrade to an A2 bike that is more powerful if you are not satisfied with the performance. This means that you'll need to finish the CBT programme again and take an actual test on the new bike.
Honda has a wide range of bikes you can pick from if you're considering upgrading your A1 license. 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 think about your budget, preferences and intended use when choosing the Honda motorcycle to get your A1 licence. If you intend to use your A1 motorcycle for daily commutes and commutes, then a commuter model like the Honda CB125F is best.
What is an A2 license?
The A2 licence is perfect for those who wish to ride bigger and more powerful bikes, but aren't yet ready to get the full A licence. This licence is available to those aged 19 or over. It allows you to ride a bike with an maximum power of 35 kW (47bhp) and carry passengers, and drive on motorways.
After successfully passing your CBT and Motorcycle Theory Test, you can start training for your A2 license. It can take between a few weeks to several months depending on when you sign up for the course and how many hours of training you will need. The cost of A2 training for your licence will differ depending on your requirements and the length of the course - prices start from around PS400 for introductory courses of a short duration and may be in the PS900+ range for complete training including mod 1 and 2.
Mod 1 and Mod 2 are the two components of your test which you must pass to get an A2 license. You can take these tests on any road-legal bike that is able to meet the requirements for power output of the A2 license. Dealerships and online sellers often advertise their bikes as "A2 bikes" Make sure you check specs before buying one because not all meet the specifications requirements.
After passing your A2 driving test, you are able to remove your L plates and enjoy riding an even more powerful motorbike. You can also ride on motorways as an additional passenger and won't be required to display the learner plates in front and back.
If you decide to upgrade your A1 license to a full-A licence, you'll have to take the entire program once more including the two sections of the test. However, it can be less time-consuming and less stressful if the bike is already at a higher level.
The A1 licence is valid for two years, and after that time you may choose to take an exam in order for the A licence - though you must remember that the full A license is a restriction on the ability to drive certain types of vehicles and also raises 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 teach you all the skills and knowledge that you require to operate a two-wheeler in a safe manner. This includes rules of the road, hazard-awareness and specific laws for motorcycles. You will also learn how to operate the vehicle and perform basic maintenance.
Once you've completed your CBT It's time to take the theory test. It's a multiple-choice exam and it's a good idea to buy the official DVSA revision book to ensure körkortsintyg online you pass. The next step is to take the actual A1 test. This test will permit you to ride a moped as high as 125cc without L plates and to carry the passenger. This is a much more comprehensive 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 older than 19 you can upgrade from an A1 to an A2 licence. This will allow you to ride motorcycles or scooters of up to 125cc, with 11kW and without L plates. You can then move on to the full A licence by taking the Direct Access route once you're older than 24.
There are some riders who prefer to stay on an A1 license for life, but if you want to move to larger and more powerful bikes in the near future it's a good idea to be able to pass your A2 test so that you can upgrade your category of licence. After completing your CBT it's a good idea to think about further training to enhance your riding and boost your confidence.
Our Honda range is the perfect starting point if you're looking for an affordable and reliable scooter or motorbike that will assist you in obtaining your A1 license. We have bikes such as the Honda Monkey, CB125F and MSX125 which offer a blend of quality and affordability. We can also provide you with the best financing package for your requirements.
How do I obtain an A2 license?
A2 is an altered version of the category A motorcycle licence. This licence allows you ride on scooters and motorbikes that have engine sizes greater than 125cc, and a maximum power output of 35 kW (47bhp). The licence permits you to travel on motorways and transport Pillion riders. The license is available to people who are 19 or over and will speed up the process for upgrading to a full-A licence through progressive access.
The first step to obtain an A2 license is to get the CBT (Certificate of Basic Training). It is a one-day training that will cost you around PS70-PS100. It will teach you the basics of riding a motorbike or scooter. It consists of both theoretical and practical lessons.
After completing your CBT, you are now able to move on to take the A2 Restricted Motorcycle Test. The test is split into two parts: Modules 1 & 2. Both tests require you to bring a bike that is in compliance with the minimum cc requirements for A2. The bike should be equipped with an engine of at least 395cc with the maximum power output of 37bhp.
Once you pass your A2 Restricted Motorcycle Test, you'll be able ride any scooter or motorcycle with an engine size of more than 125cc. This is the case with most scooters. It is common for sellers online and in dealerships to sell bikes as "A2" if they meet the requirements for power output. This is especially the case for higher-end bikes that offer a greater quality of performance.
The A2 licence can be an excellent method to inject new life into your bike. Achieving your A2 licence allows you to ride faster and more powerful bikes and can make you much more confident on the road. You'll also save money on your insurance, as most A2-ready motorcycles are in the group 10 category whereas a superbike that is quick could be in group 19. The A2 licence is not an unrestricted motorcycle license however it is a good method to gain experience and confidence before making the leap to a full A licence.