Why Buy A1 and A2 Driver's Licenses?

The A1 licence offers a step-up in terms of riding and training compared to the Compulsory Basic Training (CBT). A1 motorcycles are limited to 125cc engines.

The new format of the licence, introduced in 2011, displays on a card that is laminated, the bearer's photograph as well as the date and the category of issue, along with their name. These cards are sold at driving schools and training centres.

What is an A1 licence?

The A1 is the first step to driving a motorbike or scooter for children. It is the only licence that those aged 17-18 years old are able to obtain, allowing them to ride on bikes up to 125cc. You can also carry a passenger and ride on motorways without needing to display learner licenses front and back.

The process of getting an A1 license doesn't mean you can get any bike you would like, but it's a great opportunity to learn 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 older than 24 years).

You need to be at least 16 years old before taking the Compulsory Basic Training (CBT) course. This course is split into two parts: theory lessons and riding. The theory lessons are focused around road rules and hazards awareness.

In the sessions that you will be able to practice, you will learn the basic techniques required to operate a motorbike or scooter. This includes manoeuvring the bike in a figure eight, wheeling it, and a slow-speed control. To get your A1 license you'll need to pass both the theory and the practical test.

If you're not satisfied with the power of your A1 bike, you can choose to upgrade it for a higher-powered A2 bike after two years as an A1 driver. This will require you to repeat the CBT and pass a practice test on the new bike.

Honda offers a variety of bikes to pick from if you're contemplating upgrading your A1 license. From the comfortable and practical Honda CB125F, to the sporty Honda MSX125G 'Grom' there's something for everyone. It's important to consider your budget, preferences and the purpose for which you're choosing a Honda motorcycle for your A1 licence. For example, 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 A2 license?

The A2 licence is ideal for those who want to ride larger, more powerful bikes, but aren't quite ready for the full A licence. The licence is open to people who are 19 or older. It allows you to ride a bicycle with a a maximum power of 35 kW (47bhp) and carry passengers, and ride on motorways.

After having passed your CBT and Motorcycle Theory Test, you can begin your training for the A2 license. It can take anywhere from a few days to several months, depending on the date you book an event and the number of hours of training you require. The cost of A2 training will vary according to your needs and the length of the course. Prices begin at PS400 for introductory courses of a short duration and range up to the PS900+ range for full training that includes mod 1 and 2.

To gain your A2 license, you must pass two sections of the practical test - Mod 1 and Mod 2 - which you can complete on any bike that is road legal and meets the power output requirements of the A2 licence. It is commonplace for dealers and online sellers to advertise their bikes as 'A2 bikes' therefore, make sure you check the specifications before you purchase one of them as not all of them will meet the specification requirements.

Once you have passed your A2 driving test, you can remove your L plates and enjoy riding a more powerful motorcycle. You can also take a ride on motorways with an additional passenger, and you won't have to display the learner plates front and back.

If you decide to upgrade your A1 licence to a full-A licence, you'll have to take the entire program again including the two sections of the exam. However, it may be easier and less stressful if the bike is already at a higher level.

The A1 license is valid for 2 years. After this, you are able to choose to take a test to upgrade to an A licence. However, you should be aware get more info that the A license limits your ability to drive certain vehicles. It also increases the legal limit of alcohol for drivers to 80mg/100ml.

How do I apply for an A1 licence?

The first step towards obtaining an A1 licence is to complete the Compulsory Basic Training (CBT) course which will teach you the basic skills and knowledge that you need to ride safely on two-wheelers. This includes rules for roads, hazard awareness and motorcycle-specific laws. You'll also learn to handle the vehicle and carry out essential maintenance.

After you've completed your CBT it is time to take the Theory Test. This is a multiple-choice exam, and it's best to purchase the official revision guide from the DVSA to help you pass. The next step is taking the practice A1 test. This test will permit you to ride a moped as high as 130cc without plates and also carry a passenger. This is a more thorough exam than the CBT, and includes manoeuvring activities such as dragging your bike and completing an eight-figure figure.

If you're older than 19 and have a valid A1 licence to an A2 licence after two years. This allows you to ride a scooter or motorcycle of up to 125cc and 11kW without plates or carrying a passenger. You can then upgrade to a full A licence through the Direct Access route once you're older than 24.

Some riders prefer to keep their A1 licences for life. 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 completing your CBT it's worth considering further training to improve your riding skills and increase your confidence.

If you're looking for an efficient and versatile scooter or motorbike to begin your journey towards getting your A1 licence Our range of Honda bikes is the ideal place to start. Honda Monkey, CB125F, and MSX125 are some of the bikes that combine the best of both worlds in terms of performance and affordability. We can also find you the best financing package for your requirements.

How do I get an A2 license?

A2 is an upgraded version of the full category A motorcycle licence. The licence permits you to ride motorbikes and scooters with an engine size greater than 125cc and the maximum power output is 35kW (47bhp). It also permits you to carry passengers on pillion and to ride on motorways. The licence is available at the age of 19 or older and will aid in the process of upgrading to a full A licence by using progressive access.

The first step to obtain an A2 license is to obtain an CBT (Certificate of Basic Training). This one-day course will cost between PS70 and PS100. It will teach you how to use a motorbike or scooter. It includes both theoretical and practical lessons.

After completing your CBT, you are now able to move on to taking the A2 Restricted Motorcycle Test. The test is split into two parts: Modules 1 & 2. You will need to bring your bike to both tests. It must meet the minimum cc requirement for A2. The bike must have an engine size of at least 395cc, and must have a maximum restrictable power output of 35kW (47bhp).

After passing the A2 Restricted Motorcycle Test you are able to ride any motorcycle or scooter with an engine that is larger than 125cc. This is the case with most scooters. On the internet and in dealerships it is commonplace to see bikes marketed as "A2", if they meet power requirements. This is particularly true for bikes that are more expensive and provide a higher level of performance.

The A2 license can breathe fresh life into a bike. You can ride more powerful and faster bikes by obtaining an A2 license. It also gives you greater confidence on the road. You will also save money on insurance because most A2-ready bikes will fall into the group 10 category while a superbike that is quick could be in group 19. The A2 motorcycle license is not a licence that permits you to ride on any motorcycle. However, it will help you gain confidence and experience prior to upgrading to the full A licence.