Why Buy A1 and A2 Driver's Licenses?
The A1 licence gives you a step up in riding and training privileges compared to the Compulsory Basic Training (CBT). A1 motorcycles are restricted to 125cc engines.
The new licence format that was introduced in 2011, displays the name of the bearer, his photo along with the date of issue as well as allowed categories on a laminated plastic card. You can find these cards at driving schools and training centres.
What is A1 license?
The A1 is the first step towards riding a motorcycle or scooter for children. It's the only licence that 17 and 18-year-olds can obtain, and permits them to ride bikes with a capacity of up to 125cc without any plates for L plates. You can also carry a passenger and ride on motorways without needing to display learner's licenses on the both in front and back.
The A1 license doesn't allow you to purchase a bicycle, but it will allow you to learn how to ride on a tight budget. You can also move to the next stage, which is the Direct Access Scheme A Licence (for people aged 24 and over) or the Restricted A2 Licence (19-23 year olds).
You must be at least 16 years old to be able to take the Compulsory Basis Training (CBT). This course is divided into two parts: theory lessons and 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 the bike in a figure eight, wheeling it and slow control. To obtain your A1 license you'll need to pass both the theory and the practical test.
After two years of driving an A1 bike you can upgrade to an A2 bike with more power if you are not satisfied with the power. This will require you to retake the CBT and pass a practice test on the new bike.
Honda has a wide range of bikes to choose from if you are thinking about upgrading your A1 license. There's something for everyone, starting with the practical and comfortable Honda CB125F up to the sporty Honda MSX125G "Grom". It's important to consider your budget, preferences and intended use when choosing a Honda motorcycle to get 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 an A2 licence?
The A2 licence is ideal for those who want to ride bigger and more powerful bikes but aren't yet ready to get the full A license. You can obtain this licence before the age of 19 and it allows you to ride a bike that produces no more than 35 kW or 47bhp, carry a pillion rider and use motorways.
After having passed your CBT and Motorcycle Theory Test, you can begin your training for the A2 license. This will take anywhere from a few days to several months depending on the date you book the course and how many training hours you need. The total cost of A2 training will vary according to your needs and the duration of the course. Prices start at PS400 for introductory courses of a short duration and range up to the PS900+ range for complete training that includes mod 1 and 2.
Mod 1 and Mod 2 are the two parts of your practical test that you must pass to obtain an A2 license. You can take these tests on any road-legal bicycle that has the requirements for power output of the A2 license. It is typical for dealers and online sellers to market their bikes as 'A2 bikes' so make sure to verify the specifications prior to purchasing one of them as not all of them be able to meet the specifications.
Once you have successfully passed your A2 driving test, you are able to take off your L-plates and start riding your more powerful motorbike. You can also carry a passenger as well as take a ride 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 license to a full-A license you'll have to take the entire program once more including the two sections of the test. However, it could be less time-consuming and less stressful if your bike is already at an advanced level.
The A1 license is valid for 2 years. After that, you'll be able to take a test to upgrade to the A licence. However, you should be aware that the A licence is not a permit to drive certain vehicles. It also increases the legal limit for alcohol for drivers to 80mg/100ml.
How do I get an A1 license?
The first step to obtaining an A1 license is to complete the Compulsory Basic Training (CBT) course that will provide you with the essential skills and knowledge necessary to safely ride on two-wheelers. This includes the rules of the road such as hazard perception, motorcycle-specific regulations. You'll also learn to handle 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 exam, so it's a good idea to purchase the official DVSA revision book to ensure you pass. The next step is to take the click here actual A1 test. This will allow you to ride a moped as high as 130cc without plates and also carry the passenger. This is a much more comprehensive test than the CBT, and includes manoeuvring tasks such as dragging your bike and the completion of an eight-figure figure.
After two years, if are older than 19, you can upgrade from an A1 licence to an A2 licence. This allows you to ride motorcycles and scooters up to 125cc with 11kW and without L plates. When you turn 24, you can move up to the full A license through Direct Access.
Some riders prefer to keep their A1 licences for life. However, if you are planning to upgrade to a larger and more powerful bike in the future You must pass your A2 test to upgrade your licence category. After you've completed your CBT it's worthwhile to consider further training to improve your riding skills and increase your confidence.
Our Honda range is the perfect place to start when you're looking for a low-cost and reliable motorbike or scooter that can help you obtain 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 assist you to find the right finance package that meets your requirements.
How do I obtain an A2 licence?
A2 is a modified version of the full category A motorcycle license. It permits you to ride motorbikes or scooters with engines of more than 125cc and the maximum power output is 35 kW (47bhp). The licence permits you to use motorways and transport passengers. The license is available to people who are 19 or over and will speed the process of upgrading to a full-A licence by allowing progressive access.
The first step in obtaining an A2 license is to get a CBT. This is a one-day course which will cost between PS70-PS100. It teaches you the fundamentals of riding a scooter or motorbike. It consists of both theory and practice.
After passing your CBT, you are able to take the A2 Restricted Motorbike Test. The test consists of two parts: Module 1 as well as Module 2. You will need to bring your bike for both tests. It must be able to meet the minimum requirement for cc for A2. The bike must have an engine size of at least 395cc, and must have a maximum limitable power output of 35kW (47bhp).
After passing the A2 Restricted Motorcycle Test you are able to ride any motorcycle or scooter that has an engine larger than 125cc. This includes all scooters. It is typical for sellers online and in dealerships to advertise bikes under the designation "A2" in the event that they meet the power output requirements. This is especially true for more expensive bikes that have a higher performance.
The A2 licence can breathe new life into the bike. You can ride more powerful and faster bikes with an A2 license. It also gives you greater confidence on the road. It will also allow you to save money on insurance as the majority of A2-ready bikes will be in group 10, while the fastest superbike could be in group 19. The A2 licence is not an unrestricted motorcycle license however it could be an excellent opportunity to build your experience and confidence before making the leap to an A licence.