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). The engine size of motorcycles that have an A1 licence is restricted to 125cc.
The new licence format launched in 2011 shows the name of the person who is holding it, their photo along with the date of issue as well as permitted categories on a laminated plastic card. You can get these cards at driving schools as well as ongoing training centres.
What is A1 license?
The A1 is the first step to riding a motorcycle or scooter for children. It's the only licence 17 & 18 year olds can take and allows them to ride motorcycles up to 125cc without plates for L plates. It also allows you to carry passengers, ride on motorways and not need to display learner plates in front and rear.
The process of getting an A1 license doesn't mean you can get any bike you want, but it's a great 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 16 years old to be able to take the Compulsory Base Training (CBT). The course is split into two parts: theoretical lessons and riding. The theory lessons are centered around road rules and hazard awareness.
In the sessions that are practical you'll master the fundamental skills to operate a motorcycle or scooter. This includes manoeuvring the bike in the figure eight, turning it, and a slow-speed control. To obtain your A1 license you'll need to pass both the theory and the practical test.
If you're not satisfied with the performance of your A1 bike, then you may want to upgrade it to an A2 bike after two years as an A1 driver. This means that you'll have to finish the CBT program again and pass a practical test for the new bike.
Honda has a wide range of bikes to pick from when contemplating upgrading your A1 license. There's something for everyone from the comfortable and practical Honda CB125F all the way to the sporty Honda MSX125G "Grom". It's important to consider your personal preferences, budget and purpose of use when selecting a Honda motorcycle for your A1 licence. For instance, if you're planning to use your A1 motorcycle for daily commuting then it's best to select an e-bike like the Honda CB125F.
What is A2 license?
The A2 licence is ideal for those who want to ride larger, more powerful bikes, but aren't yet ready for the full A license. This licence is available to those who are 19 or older. It permits you to ride a bicycle with a an maximum power of 35 kW (47bhp), carry a passenger, and drive on motorways.
After successfully passing your CBT and Motorcycle Theory Test, you can start training for your A2 license. This will take between a few weeks to a few months, depending on when you book an event and the number of hours of training you require. The total cost of A2 licence training will vary according to your needs and the duration of the course - prices begin at PS400 for introductory courses of a short duration and range up to the PS900+ range for complete training including mod 1 and 2.
Mod 1 and Mod 2 are the two components of your practical test that you must pass to obtain an A2 license. You can test on any 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" Be sure to check specs before buying one since not all meet the specifications requirements.
After you have passed your A2 driving test, you can take off your L-plates, and begin riding your more powerful motorbike. You can also carry a passenger and travel on motorways. And of course, you don't have to display your learner plates in front and rear.
If you decide to upgrade your A1 licence to a full A licence, you'll have to go through the entire course of training again, including both parts of the practical test, however it will be much quicker and less stressful if you are already familiar with the higher levels of bike.
The A1 licence is valid for two years and after that you can choose to pass a practical exam to upgrade to the A licence - though you must be aware that the full A licence is a restriction on 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 licence?
The first step to obtaining an A1 license is to complete a Compulsory Base Training (CBT) Course. This course will provide you with all the skills and knowledge you need to be able to ride on two wheels safely. This includes road rules, hazard perception and specific motorcycle regulations. You'll also learn how to operate the vehicle and carry out essential maintenance.
After you've completed your CBT and completed your CBT, you're now ready to take the test in theory. It's a multiple choice test and it's recommended to buy the official expert revision guide from the DVSA to ensure you get through the test. The next step is taking the actual A1 test. This test will permit you to ride a moped up to 130cc without plates and carry a passenger. This is a more thorough exam than the CBT and includes manoeuvring tasks such as wheeling your bike and completing an eight-figure figure.
If you're older than 19 and have a valid A1 license to an A2 licence after two years. This will allow you to ride a scooter or motorcycle of up to 125cc and 11kW without L plates, or carrying passengers. When you turn 24 you can upgrade up to a full A license by using Direct Access.
Some riders prefer to keep their A1 licences for the rest of their lives. If you are planning to upgrade to a larger and more powerful bike in the future, you should pass your A2 test to upgrade your license category. After you've completed your CBT it's a good idea to think about additional training to improve your riding and increase your confidence.
Our Honda range is the perfect place to start when you're looking for a reliable and affordable motorbike or scooter that can help you get your A1 license. 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 perfect finance plan that meets your requirements.
How do I apply for an A2 licence?
A2 is a modified version of the full category A motorcycle licence. The licence permits you to ride motorbikes or scooters with engines of more than 125cc and a maximum power output of 35kW (47bhp). The licence also permits you to carry pillion passengers körkortsonline and to ride on motorways. The licence is available to those aged 19 and over and speeds up the process for upgrading to a full-A licence by allowing progressive access.
The first step in getting an A2 licence is obtaining an CBT (Certificate of Basic Training). This one-day course costs between PS70 and PS100. It will teach you how to use a motorbike or scooter. It is a combination of theoretical and practical lessons.
After you have passed your CBT, you can then take the A2 Restricted Motorbike Test. This test consists of two parts: Module 1 and Module 2. Both tests require you to bring a bicycle that is in compliance with the minimum cc requirements for A2. The bike must have an engine capacity of at least 395cc, and must have a maximum limitable power output of 35kW (47bhp).
After passing your A2 Restricted Motorcycle Test, you will be able to use any motorbike or scooter with an engine that is larger than 125cc. This is the case with most scooters. In dealerships and online it is commonplace to see bikes advertised as "A2", if they meet the power requirements. This is especially applicable to bikes that are more expensive and have a higher level of performance.
The A2 licence is a great opportunity to breathe new life into your bike. You can enjoy more powerful and faster bikes with an A2 license. It also gives you greater confidence on the road. You'll also save money on insurance as the majority of A2-ready bikes will fall into the group 10 category, while a superbike that is quick could be in group 19. The A2 motorcycle licence is not a permit that permits you to ride on any motorcycle. However it can assist you in gaining experience and confidence before upgrading to the full A licence.