Why Buy A1 and A2 Driver's Licenses?
The A1 licence provides a boost in riding and training privileges as compared to Compulsory Basic Training (CBT). The engine size of motorcycles that have an A1 licence is limited to 125cc.
The new license format, that was introduced in 2011 shows the name of the person who is holding it, their photo as well as the date of issue and allowed categories on the laminated plastic card. You can find these cards at driving schools as well as ongoing training centers.
What is A1 license?
The A1 is the first step towards riding a motorcycle or scooter for children. It's the only licence 17 and 18 year olds are able to obtain and allows them to ride bikes up to 125cc without plates for L plates. You can also carry a passenger and use motorways without having to display your learner's licenses both front and back.
Getting an A1 license doesn't mean that 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 progress to the next level (Restricted A2 Licence for 19 - 23 year olds or Direct Access Scheme A Licence for 24 years and over).
You must be 16 years old to enroll in the Compulsory Basic Training (CBT). This is a two-part course that includes theory as well as practical riding. The theory lessons are focused around road rules and hazard awareness.
In the practical sessions you will learn the basic skills required to operate a scooter or motorbike. This includes manoeuvring in the figure of eight as well as wheeling the bike, and a slow speed control. You'll need to pass both the theory and the practical tests to obtain your A1 license.
After two years of riding an A1 bike you can upgrade to an A2 bike with more power if you are not satisfied with the power. This means that you'll need to finish the CBT programme again and take an exam for the new bike.
If you're considering upgrading your A1 licence then you should think about checking out the range of Honda bikes that are available to you. There's something for everyone from the comfortable and practical Honda CB125F all the way to the sporty Honda MSX125G "Grom". When selecting the Honda motorcycle to get your A1 license, it's crucial that you take into consideration your budget, your preferences and your intention of using the motorcycle. For instance, if you're planning to use your A1 bike for daily commuting then it's best to go with a commuter-style model such as the Honda CB125F.
What is an A2 licence?
The A2 licence is perfect for those who want to ride larger, more powerful bikes but aren't yet ready for the full A licence. This licence is available to those who are 19 or over. It allows you to ride a bike that has a maximum power of 35 kW (47bhp), carry a passenger, and drive on motorways.
After successfully passing your CBT and Motorcycle Theory Test, you are able to begin training for your A2 license. It could take anywhere from a few weeks to several months depending on when you book a course and how many hours of training you will need. The total cost of A2 training for your licence will differ depending on the requirements you have and the length of the course - prices begin at PS400 for introductory courses of a short duration, and can be in the PS900+ range for full training that includes mod 1 and 2.
To gain your A2 licence you must pass two sections of the test in practice to be eligible for the licence. Mod 1 and Mod 2 - which you can complete on any bike that is road legal and is in compliance with the power output restrictions of the A2 licence. It is common for online and dealership sellers to market their bikes as 'A2' bikes - so be sure to check the specifications prior to purchasing one of them as not all of them be able to meet the specifications.
Once you have passed your A2 driving test, you can remove your L plates and enjoy riding a more powerful motorbike. You can also ride on motorways with an additional passenger and won't need to display the learner plates in the front and back.
If you decide to upgrade from your A1 license to a full A license, you'll need to complete the entire training program and both parts of the practical test, but it can be much faster and less stressful if are already familiar with the higher grade of bike.
The A1 licence is valid for two years and after that you can choose to pass a practical exam to move up to the A licence. However, you should be aware that the full A license is a restriction on your ability to drive in certain vehicles and will also increase the legal limit of alcohol for drivers to 80mg/100ml.
How do I get an A1 license?
The first step to obtaining an A1 licence is to complete the Compulsory Basic Training (CBT) course which will teach you the essential skills and knowledge you require to safely ride on two-wheelers. This includes road rules, hazard awareness and specific laws for motorcycles. You'll also be taught how to operate the vehicle and carry out essential maintenance.
After you've completed your CBT it's time to take the Theory Test. It's a multiple-choice test, so it's a good idea to buy the official DVSA revision guide to help you pass. The next step is taking the practical A1 test. This will allow you to ride a moped as high as 130cc without plates and also carry the passenger. This is a more thorough test than the CBT and covers manoeuvring exercises such as dragging your bike and taking an eight-figure figure.
After two years, if are over the age of 19, you can upgrade from an A1 to an A2 licence. This permits you to drive motorcycles or scooters with 125cc capacity and 11kW and without L plates. Once you turn 24, you can move up to the full A license through Direct Access.
There are certain riders who prefer to stay on an A1 licence for life however if you're looking to upgrade to bigger and more köp snabbt körkort powerful bikes in the near future, it's best to get through your A2 test so that you can upgrade your licence category. After completing your CBT it's worth considering additional training to improve your riding and boost your confidence.
Our Honda range is a great starting point if you're looking for a reliable and affordable motorbike or scooter that will help you get your A1 license. We have bikes such as the Honda Monkey, CB125F and MSX125 which offer a blend of performance and affordability. We can also provide you with the most suitable finance plan to meet your requirements.
How do I apply for an A2 license?
A2 is an altered version of the full category A motorcycle license. It permits you to ride motorbikes and scooters with engine sizes greater than 125cc, and a maximum power output of 35kW (47bhp). The licence permits you to use motorways and transport Pillion riders. The licence is available from the age of 19 or more and can aid in the process of upgrading to a full A license by using progressive access.
The first step towards obtaining an A2 license is to obtain the CBT. This is a single-day course that will cost you around PS70-PS100. It teaches you the fundamentals of riding a motorbike or scooter. It consists of both theoretical and practical lessons.
After completing your CBT, you can then move on to take the A2 Restricted Motorcycle Test. The test is split into two sections: Modules 1 and 2. You'll need to bring your bike to both tests. It must meet the minimum cc requirement for A2. This bike must have an engine of at least 395cc, with an output of 37bhp.
After passing the A2 Restricted Motorcycle Test you can now ride any motorbike or scooter that has an engine greater than 125cc. This includes most scooters. It is typical for sellers on the internet and in dealerships to sell bikes as "A2" when they have the power output requirements. This is especially relevant for bikes that are more expensive and provide more performance.
The A2 licence can be an excellent opportunity to breathe new life into your bike. The A2 licence allows you to ride the fastest and most powerful bikes and it can also help you feel 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, whereas the fastest superbike could be in group 19. The A2 licence isn't an unrestricted motorcycle licence however it is a good way to build up your experience and build your confidence before making the jump to a full A licence.