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 size of the engine on motorcycles that have an A1 licence is limited to 125cc.
The new licence format introduced in 2011, displays the name of the bearer, his photo along with the date of issue as well as permitted categories on the laminated plastic card. These cards are sold at driving schools and training centres.
What is an A1 license?
The A1 is the first step in driving a motorcycle or a scooter for youngsters. It is the only license that 17 and 18-year-olds can obtain which allows them to drive bikes up to 125cc. It also means you can carry a passenger or ride on motorways, and not be required to display learner plates in front and rear.
Achieving an A1 license doesn't mean you can buy any bike you want, but it's an excellent opportunity 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 older than 24 years).
You must be 16 years old to enroll in the Compulsory Base Training (CBT). This course is divided into two parts: theoretical lessons and riding. The theory lessons concentrate on the rules of the road and hazard perception.
In the sessions that you will be able to practice, you will learn the basic skills required to operate a motorbike or scooter. This includes maneuvering in an eight-point figure, wheeling the bike and a slow speed control. To get your A1 license, you'll need both the theory and the practical test.
After two years of riding an A1 bike you can upgrade to a more powerful A2 bike if you are not satisfied with the performance. 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 when considering upgrading your A1 license. There's something for everyone, from the practical and comfortable Honda CB125F to the sporty Honda MSX125G "Grom". It's important to consider your personal preferences, budget and intended use when choosing a Honda motorcycle to get your A1 licence. For instance, if planning to use your A1 motorcycle for daily commuting then it's best to choose one that is a commuter model like the Honda CB125F.
What is A2 license?
The A2 licence is ideal for those who wish to ride bigger and more powerful bikes but aren't yet ready to get the full A licence. This licence is available to people who are 19 or over. It permits you to ride a bike that has the maximum power of 35 kW (47bhp) as well as carry passengers, and ride on motorways.
If you pass your CBT and Motorcycle Theory Test you can start training for your A2 licence, which will take anywhere from a few weeks to a few months depending on how soon you are able to sign onto a course and the amount of training you will need. The cost of A2 licence training will vary according to your needs and the length of the course. Prices start at PS400 for short introduction courses and range up to the PS900+ range for complete training, including mod 1 and 2.
To get your A2 licence you must pass two sections of the test in practice to be eligible for the licence. Mod 1 and Mod 2 that you can pass on any bike that is road-legal and meets the power output requirements of the A2 licence. It is common for online and dealership sellers to advertise their bikes as 'A2 bikes' - so make sure to verify the specifications prior to purchasing one, as not all 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 motorcycle. You can also ride on motorways with passengers and won't be required to display the learner plates front and back.
If you decide to upgrade your A1 licence to a full-A license you will need to complete the entire program again including the two sections of the practical exam. However, it may be quicker and less stressful if your bike is already at an upper level.
The A1 license is valid for two years. After that, you can choose to take a practical test to upgrade to the A license. However, you should be aware that the A licence is not a permit to drive some vehicles and increases the legal limit of alcohol for drivers to 80mg/100ml.
How do I obtain an A1 license?
The first step in gaining an A1 license 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 road rules, hazard awareness and laws specific to motorcycles. You will also learn how to operate the vehicle and perform basic maintenance.
Once you've completed your CBT and completed your CBT, you're now ready to take the theory test. It's a multiple-choice test and it's recommended to buy the official expert revision book from the DVSA to help you pass. The next step is taking your practical A1 licence test, which gives you the freedom to ride a moped of up to 125cc without plates, or carry a pillion. This is a much more comprehensive test than the CBT and will include manoeuvring tasks such as cycling the bike and then completing a figure of eight.
After two years, if you are over 19 you can upgrade from an A1 license to an A2 licence. This allows you to drive motorcycles or scooters of up to 125cc, with 11kW and without L plates. Then, you can get more info upgrade to a full A licence through the Direct Access route once you're older than 24.
There are some riders who prefer to remain on an A1 license for life however, if you'd like to upgrade to bigger and more powerful bikes in the near future it's best to be able to pass your A2 test so that you can upgrade your licence category. It's also worthwhile to consider getting additional training after you've completed your CBT and CBT, since this will help you improve your riding abilities and increase your confidence.
If you're looking for an affordable and reliable motorbike or scooter to get started on your A1 license the range of Honda bikes is a great place to start. Honda Monkey, CB125F, and MSX125 are just a few of the bikes that are able to combine the best of both worlds in terms of performance and affordability. We can also assist you to choose the best finance plan to suit your requirements.
How do I obtain an A2 license?
An A2 licence is a restricted version of a full category A motorcycle licence. The licence permits you to ride motorbikes and scooters with an engine size of more than 125cc and the maximum power output is 35kW (47bhp). The licence also permits you to pillion ride and to ride on motorways. The licence is available to those who are over the age of 19 and will speed up the process for upgrading to a full-A license through progressive access.
The first step to obtain an A2 licence is obtaining an CBT (Certificate of Basic Training). It is a one-day training that costs between PS70-PS100. It teaches you the fundamentals of riding a motorbike or scooter. It consists of both practical and theory lessons.
After you've completed your CBT you can then move on to take the A2 Restricted Motorcycle Test. The test is divided into two sections: Modules 1 and 2. Both tests will require you to bring a bike that is in compliance with the minimum cc requirements of A2. The bike must have an engine that is at least 395cc and the maximum power output of 37bhp.
After passing your A2 Restricted Motorcycle Test, you'll be able to ride any scooter or motorcycle that has an engine size of more than 125cc. This includes the majority of scooters. It is standard for sellers online and in dealerships to advertise bikes under the designation "A2" when they have the requirements for power output. This is particularly applicable to bikes that are more expensive and provide the highest level of performance.
The A2 licence is an excellent way to breathe new life into your bike. You can enjoy more powerful and faster bikes with your A2 licence. It will also give you greater confidence on the road. It will also help you save money on insurance because the majority of A2-ready bikes will be in group 10, whereas a fast superbike may be in group 19. The A2 motorcycle license is not a license that permits you to ride any motorbike. However, it will aid in gaining experience and confidence prior to upgrading to the full A licence.