Why Buy A1 and A2 Driver's Licenses?

The A1 licence gives you a step up in training and riding privileges compared to the Compulsory Basic Training (CBT). A1 motorcycles are restricted to 125cc engines.

The new licence format introduced in 2011, displays the name of the person who is holding it, their photo along with the date of issue as well as allowed categories on the laminated plastic card. You can get these cards at driving schools as well as ongoing training centers.

What is A1 license?

The A1 is the first step towards driving a motorcycle or a scooter for young people. It is the only license that 17 and 18-year-olds can get which allows them to ride on bikes up to 125cc. It also means you can carry a passenger or ride on motorways, and not be required to display learner plates on the front and rear.

The A1 licence does not allow you to purchase a bicycle, but it will allow you to master the art of ride on a tight budget. You can also progress 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 16 years old to take the Compulsory Basic Training (CBT). The course is split into two parts: theoretical lessons and riding. The theory lessons are focused around road rules and hazards awareness.

In the practical sessions you will be taught the fundamental skills required to operate a scooter or motorbike. This includes maneuvering in an eight-point figure, wheeling the bike and a slow speed control. To obtain your A1 license you'll need both the theory and the practical test.

If you're not content with the power of your A1 bike, then you may want to upgrade it to an A2 bike after completing two years as an A1 driver. This means that you'll need to finish the CBT program again and pass an actual test on the new bike.

Honda has a wide range of bikes you can choose from if you are considering upgrading your A1 license. From the comfortable and practical Honda CB125F, to the sporty Honda MSX125G 'Grom' there's something for all. When choosing the Honda motorcycle to get your A1 license, it's crucial to consider your budget as well as your preferences and purpose for using it. For instance, if planning to use your A1 motorbike for daily commutes, it's best to go with a commuter-style model such as the Honda CB125F.

What is an A2 license?

The A2 licence is a great option for those who want to ride larger more powerful bikes, but aren't yet ready for the full A licence. You can obtain this licence before the age of 19 and will allow you to drive a bike that produces no more than 35 kW or 47bhp. It also allows you to carry a pillion rider and take a ride on motorways.

If you pass your CBT and Motorcycle Theory Test you can begin your training for the A2 licence, which will take anywhere from a few days to a few months based on how soon you can book onto a course and how much training you require. The cost of A2 training for your licence varies based on the length of the training and your requirements. Prices start at PS400 for a brief introduction course, and be as high as PS900+ for a full training, including mod 1 and mod 2.

Mod 1 and Mod 2 are the two components of your practical test that you must pass to get an A2 license. You can test on any road-legal bike that meets the requirements for power output in the A2 license. It is typical for online and dealership sellers to market their bikes as 'A2' bikes - therefore, make sure you check the specifications prior to purchasing one as not all of them satisfy the requirements of the specification.

After you have passed your A2 driving test, you are able to take off your L-plates and start riding your more powerful motorbike. You can also ride on motorways as passengers and won't need to display the learner plates the front and back.

If you decide to upgrade your A1 license to a full-A licence, you'll have to take the entire program once more, including the two parts of the test. 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 this, you are able to choose to take a practical test to upgrade to an A license. However, it is important to be aware that the A license is not a permit 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 to obtaining an A1 license is to complete a Compulsory Basic Training (CBT) Course. This course will give you the skills and knowledge you need to ride on two wheels safely. This includes road rules, hazard awareness and specific laws for motorcycles. You'll also learn how to handle the vehicle and perform essential maintenance.

Once you've completed your CBT It's time to take the test in theory. It's a multiple choice test and you should purchase the official revision guide from the DVSA to help you get through the test. Next, you will take the practical A1 test. This will allow you to ride a moped up to 130cc without plates and carry the passenger. This is a much more comprehensive test than the CBT and will include manoeuvring tasks like cycling the bike and then performing a figure of 8.

After two years, if are over 19, you can upgrade from an A1 to an A2 licence. This allows you to ride motorcycles and scooters of up to 125cc, with 11kW and without L plates. You can then upgrade to the full A license by taking the Direct Access route once you're 24 or older.

There are some riders who prefer to remain on an A1 license for the rest of their lives, but if you want to upgrade to bigger and more powerful bikes in the future, it's best to be able to pass your A2 test so that you can upgrade your licence category. After you've completed your CBT it's a good idea to think about additional training to improve your riding and increase your confidence.

Our Honda range is a great starting point if you're looking for an affordable and reliable scooter or motorbike that will help you obtain your A1 license. We have bikes such as the Honda Monkey, CB125F and MSX125 that offer a combination of performance and affordability. We check here can also assist you to find the right finance package to meet your needs.

How do I get an A2 license?

An A2 licence is a limited version of a full category A motorcycle licence. This licence allows you ride motorbikes and scooters with engines larger than 125cc and a maximum output of 35kW (47bhp). The licence also permits you to carry pillion passengers and ride on motorways. The licence is open to all who are over the age of 19, and can speed up the process for upgrading to a full-A license by allowing progressive access.

The first step towards obtaining an A2 license is obtaining the CBT. 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 practical and theoretical lessons.

After passing your CBT you are able to take the A2 Restricted Motorbike Test. The test is split into two sections: Modules 1 and 2. You must bring your bike to both tests. It must meet the minimum cc requirement for A2. The bike should have an engine that is at least 395cc and 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 the majority of scooters. It is common for sellers online and in dealerships to advertise bikes as "A2" if they meet the power output requirements. This is especially true for bikes that are more expensive and offer more performance.

The A2 licence can breathe new life into a bike. You can enjoy more powerful and faster bikes with an A2 license. It will also give you greater confidence on the road. You can also save money on insurance, as most A2-ready motorcycles are in the group 10 category, while a superbike that is fast could be in group 19. The A2 licence is not an unrestricted motorcycle licence, but it can be a good opportunity to build your experience and build your confidence before making the leap to an A licence.