Why Buy A1 and A2 Driver's Licenses?
The A1 licence offers an improvement in training and riding rights as compared to Compulsory Basic Training (CBT). A1 motorcycles are limited to 125cc engines.
The new licence format launched in 2011 shows the name of the bearer, his photo as well as the date of issue and permitted categories on the laminated plastic card. The cards are available at driving schools and training centres.
What is an A1 license?
The A1 license is the first step for anyone who is young and wants to drive a motorcycle or scooter. It's the only licence 17 & 18 year olds can take and allows them to ride bikes with a capacity of up to 125cc with no L plates. It also allows you to carry an additional passenger as well as ride on motorways and not be required to display learner plates front and rear.
Achieving an A1 license doesn't mean you can buy 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 advance to the next level (Restricted A2 Licence for 19 - 23 year olds or Direct Access Scheme A Licence for 24 years and over).
You need to be at least 16 years old before taking the Compulsory Basic training (CBT) course. It's a two-part course that includes theory and practical riding. The theory lessons concentrate on the rules of the road and hazard perception.
In the sessions that are practical, you'll learn the essential techniques to operate a motorcycle or scooter. This includes manoeuvring the bike in the figure eight, turning it and slow control. To get your A1 license you'll need both the theory and practical test.
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 power. This means that you will need to complete the CBT program again, and then take a practical test for the new bike.
If you're considering upgrading your A1 license, then you should consider looking into the various Honda bikes available to you. There's something for everyone from the practical and comfortable Honda CB125F all the way to the sporty Honda MSX125G "Grom". When choosing a Honda motorcycle to get your A1 licence, it's essential to consider your budget, your preferences and your intention of using the motorcycle. If you intend to use your A1 motorcycle for daily commutes or commute, then a model for commuters like the Honda CB125F is the best.
What is an A2 licence?
The A2 license is perfect for those who want to ride larger, more powerful bikes, but aren't yet ready for the full A license. You can obtain this licence from the age of 19 and it allows you to ride a bike that produces no more than 35 kW or 47bhp. You can also carry a pillion rider and ride on motorways.
If you successfully pass your CBT and Motorcycle Theory Test you can start training for your A2 licence, which will take anywhere from a few days to a few months based on the speed at which you can book onto a course and how much training you require. The cost of A2 license training varies depending on the length of the training and your needs. Prices start at around PS400 for a quick introduction course and will go up to PS900+ for full training including mod 1 and mod 2.
To get your A2 license, you must pass two portions of the test in practice - Mod 1 and Mod 2 - which you can complete on any bike that is road legal and that meets the power output limitations of the A2 licence. It is typical for dealers and online sellers to advertise their bikes as 'A2' bikes - therefore, make sure you check the specifications prior to purchasing one, as not all be able to meet the specifications.
After passing your A2 driving test, you can take off your L plates and ride a more powerful motorbike. You can also carry a passenger as well as take a ride on motorways. And obviously, you do not need to display your learner plates in front and rear.
If you decide to upgrade your A1 licence to a full-A license you will need to complete the entire program once more which includes the two parts of the test. However, it could be easier and less stressful if the bike is already at a higher level.
The A1 license is valid for two years. After that, you'll be able to take a test to upgrade to an A licence. However, you must be aware that the A licence limits your ability to drive certain vehicles and increases the legal limit of alcohol for drivers to 80 mg/100ml.
How do I get an A1 license?
The first step in obtaining an A1 license is to complete a Compulsory Base Training (CBT) Course. This course will give you the knowledge and skills you need to be able to ride a two-wheeler in a safe manner. This includes rules for roads, hazard awareness and laws specific to motorcycles. You will also learn how to operate the vehicle as well as perform basic maintenance.
After you've completed your CBT it is time to take the Theory Test. It's a multiple choice test and you should buy the official expert revision book from the DVSA to ensure you get through the test. The next step is to pass your actual A1 licence test, which gives you the ability to ride a moped of up to 125cc, with or without L plates or carry a pillion passenger. This is a more thorough test than the CBT and will include manoeuvring tasks such as wheeling the bike and performing a figure of 8.
If you're older than 19 you can upgrade your A1 license to an A2 license after two years, which allows you to use a motorcycle or scooter of up to 125cc and 11kW without plates or carrying a passenger. Once you reach 24, you can move up to a full A license through Direct Access.
There are some riders who prefer to remain on an A1 license for life however if you're looking to upgrade to bigger and more powerful bikes in the near future, it's best to pass your A2 test to allow you to upgrade your category of licence. After completing your CBT it's a good idea to think about further training to enhance your riding skills and increase your confidence.
Our Honda range is the ideal starting point in the search for a low-cost and reliable scooter or motorbike that will help you obtain your A1 license. We have bikes such as the Honda Monkey, CB125F and MSX125 which offer a blend of efficiency and affordability. We can also help you find the best finance package to meet your needs.
How do I obtain an A2 license?
A2 is an upgraded version of the category A motorcycle licence. It permits you to use scooters and motorbikes with engine sizes greater than 125cc, and a maximum power output of 35kW (47bhp). It also permits you to carry passengers on pillion and ride on motorways. The licence is available when you are 19 or older and will assist in speeding the process of upgrading to a full A licence by gaining access in a progressive manner.
The first step in obtaining an A2 licence is obtaining the CBT (Certificate of Basic Training). The one-day course will cost you between PS70 and PS100. It will teach you how to use a motorbike or scooter. The course includes both theoretical and practical lessons.
After passing your CBT you can then take the A2 Restricted Motorbike Test. The test consists of two sections: Module 1 and Module 2. You will need to bring your bike to both tests. It must be able to meet the minimum requirement for cc for A2. The bike should be equipped with an engine of at least 395cc and an output of check here 37bhp.
Once you pass your A2 Restricted Motorcycle Test, you will be able to use any motorbike or scooter with a motor size of more than 125cc. This includes all scooters. It is common for sellers online and in dealerships to advertise bikes under the designation "A2" in the event that they meet the requirements for power output. This is especially the case for higher-end bikes that have a higher quality of performance.
The A2 licence is an excellent method to inject new life into your bike. Achieving your A2 licence will allow you to enjoy faster and more powerful bikes and can make you much more confident on the road. You will also save money on insurance because most A2-ready motorcycles will be in the group 10 category while a superbike that is fast could be in group 19. The A2 license isn't an unrestricted motorcycle permit however it could be an excellent way to build up your experience and confidence before making the leap to a full A licence.