Why Buy A1 and A2 Driver's Licenses?
The A1 licence offers an upgrade in training and riding rights compared to Compulsory Base Training (CBT). The size of the engine on motorcycles with an A1 licence is limited to 125cc.
The new licence format, introduced in 2011 displays the bearer's name, photo as well as the date of issue and permitted categories on a laminated plastic card. These cards are sold at driving schools and training centres.
What is A1 license?
The A1 license is the first step for anyone who is young and wants to drive a motorbike or scooter. It's the only licence 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 means you can carry an additional passenger as well as ride on motorways and not be required to display learner plates on the front and rear.
Achieving an A1 licence doesn't mean you can get any bike you would like, but it's an excellent opportunity to learn how to ride on a budget, 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 those aged 24 and over).
You must be at least 16 before enrolling in 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 hazards awareness.
In the hands-on sessions, you will master the fundamental skills required to operate a motorbike or scooter. This includes maneuvering in a figure of eight while riding, wheeling the bike and a slow-speed control. You'll need 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 practice test on the new bike.
Honda offers a variety of bikes you can pick from if you're thinking about upgrading your A1 license. From the practical and comfortable Honda CB125F to the more sporty Honda MSX125G 'Grom', there's something for everyone. It's important to think about your personal preferences, budget and purpose of use when selecting a Honda motorcycle for your A1 licence. For instance, if planning to use your A1 bike for daily commutes, it's best to select one that is a commuter model like the Honda CB125F.
What is A2 license?
The A2 licence is ideal for those who wish to ride bigger, more powerful bikes, but aren't yet ready to get the full A license. You can get this license before the age of 19 and it will allow you to drive a bike that produces no more than 35 kW or 47bhp, carry a pillion rider and ride on motorways.
After having passed your CBT and Motorcycle Theory Test, you can start training for your A2 license. It could take between a few weeks to several months depending on when you book a course and how many hours of training you require. The cost of A2 license training is contingent on the duration of the course and your requirements. Prices start at around PS400 for a brief introduction course and will increase to PS900+ for a full training, including mod 1 and mod 2.
To get your A2 license, you must pass two portions of the test in practice that you must pass - Mod 1 and Mod 2 which you can take on any bike that is road legal and that meets the power output requirements of the A2 licence. Dealerships and online sellers often advertise their bikes as "A2 bikes" Make sure you examine the specifications before purchasing one, as not all will meet the specifications requirements.
After you have passed your A2 driving licence you can take off your L-plates and start riding your more powerful motorbike. You can also take a ride on motorways with a passenger, and you won't have to display the learner plates the front and back.
If you decide to upgrade your A1 licence körkortsonline to a full-A license, you will need to complete the entire program once more including the two sections of the test. However, it could be quicker and less stressful if your bike is already at a higher level.
The A1 license is valid for two years. After that, you'll be able to take a practical test to upgrade to the A licence. However, you should be aware that the A licence is not a permit to drive certain vehicles and increases the legal limit of alcohol for drivers to 80 mg/100ml.
How do I apply for an A1 license?
The first step in gaining an A1 licence is to complete the Compulsory Basic Training (CBT) course that will provide you with the basic skills and knowledge that necessary to safely ride on two-wheelers. This includes the road rules as well as hazard perception and specific regulations for motorcycles. You will also learn 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 test, and it's best to purchase the official expert revision book from the DVSA to help you pass. The next step is taking the practice A1 test. This will allow you to ride a moped as high as 125cc with no L plates and carry a passenger. This is a much more comprehensive test than the CBT, and covers manoeuvring exercises like wheeling your bike and the completion of an eight-figure figure.
If you're older than 19, you can upgrade your A1 license to an A2 licence after two years. This will allow you to ride a scooter or motorcycle with 125cc or 11kW without L plates, or carrying passengers. Then, you can upgrade to a full A licence by taking the Direct Access route once you're 24 or older.
There are certain riders who prefer to remain on an A1 license for life, but if you want to upgrade to bigger and more powerful bikes in the near future, it's a good idea to get through your A2 test so that you can upgrade your category of licence. After you've completed your CBT it's worthwhile to consider further training to improve your riding skills and increase your confidence.
If you're seeking an affordable and reliable scooter or motorbike to get started on your A1 license, our range of Honda bikes is a great place to start. Honda Monkey, CB125F, and MSX125 are some of the bikes that are able to combine efficiency and affordability. We can also help you find the right finance package that meets your needs.
How do I obtain an A2 license?
A2 is an upgraded version of the full category A motorcycle licence. It permits you to use scooters and motorbikes with engines larger than 125cc and a maximum output of 35kW (47bhp). The licence permits you to use motorways and carry Pillion riders. The licence is open to all who are over the age of 19 and speeds up the process for upgrading to a full-A licence through progressive access.
The first step to obtain an A2 licence is obtaining a CBT (Certificate of Basic Training). This is a single-day course that costs between PS70-PS100. It will teach you the fundamentals of riding a scooter or motorbike. It consists of both theory and practice.
After passing your CBT you can then take the A2 Restricted Motorbike Test. The test is comprised of two parts: Module 1 as well as Module 2. Both tests will require you to bring a bike that meets the minimum cc requirements of A2. This bike should have an engine capacity that is at least 395cc and must have a maximum restricted power output of 35kW (47bhp).
If you pass your A2 Restricted Motorcycle Test, you will be able to ride any motorcycle or scooter with a motor larger than 125cc. This includes all scooters. It is typical for sellers online and in dealerships to sell bikes under the designation "A2" in the event that they meet the required power output. This is particularly true for bikes that are more expensive and offer a higher level of performance.
The A2 licence can breathe new life into bikes. You can enjoy more powerful and faster bikes with an A2 licence. It also gives you greater confidence on the road. You'll also save money on insurance because most A2-ready bikes will fall into the group 10 category however a superbike that's fast could be in group 19. The A2 motorcycle licence is not a permit that permits you to ride any motorbike. However it can help you gain confidence and experience prior to upgrading to the full A licence.