Why Buy A1 and A2 Driver's Licenses?

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

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

What is an A1 license?

The A1 licence is the first step for anyone who is young and wants to ride a motorcycle or scooter. It is the only licence that those aged 17-18 years old can obtain and allows them to ride bikes of up to 125cc. This also means that you can carry an additional passenger or ride on motorways, and not have to display learner plates front and rear.

The process of getting an A1 license doesn't mean that you can buy any bike you want, but it is an excellent way 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 24 years and over).

You need to be at least 16 prior to enrolling in the Compulsory Basic Training (CBT) course. It's a two-part course that includes theory and practical riding. The theory lessons concentrate on road rules and hazard perception.

In the sessions that are practical you'll be taught the fundamental abilities to operate a motorbike or scooter. This includes manoeuvring in an eight-point figure while riding, wheeling the bike and slow control. You'll need to pass the theory and practical tests in order to get your A1 license.

If you're not satisfied with the performance of your A1 bike, you may want to upgrade it to an A2 bike once you've completed two years as an A1 driver. This will need you to take a second CBT and pass a test on the practical test on the new bike.

If you're thinking of upgrading your A1 license, then you should consider taking a look at the variety of Honda bikes that are available to you. From the comfortable and practical Honda CB125F to the sporty Honda MSX125G "Grom", there's something for everyone. When selecting the Honda motorcycle to get your A1 license, it's important that you consider your budget, your preferences and your intended use. If you plan to use your A1 bike for daily commutes, then a commuter model like the Honda CB125F is the best.

What is an A2 licence?

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

After successfully passing your CBT and Motorcycle Theory Test, you can start training for your A2 license. This will take anywhere from a few days to several months depending on when you book a course and how many hours of training you will need. The cost of A2 training for your licence varies based on the duration of the course and your needs. Prices start at around PS400 for a quick introduction course, and be as high as PS900+ for 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 in order to get an A2 license. You can test on any bike that meets the power output requirements of the A2 license. It is common for online and dealership sellers to market their bikes as 'A2 bikes' - so make sure to verify the specifications before you purchase one as not all of them will be able to meet the specifications.

Once you have passed your A2 driving test, you can remove your L plates and enjoy riding an even more powerful motorbike. You can also carry passengers and travel on motorways. And of course, you don't be required to display your learner plates front and rear.

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

The A1 licence is valid for two years, and after that, you are able to take an exam in order for the A licence. However, you should be aware that the A licence can limit the ability to drive certain vehicles and also raises the legal limit of alcohol for drivers to 80mg/100ml.

How do I get an A1 license?

The first step to getting an A1 license is to complete a Compulsory Basis Training (CBT) Course. This course will give you the skills and knowledge that you need to be able to ride on two wheels safely. This includes the road rules such as hazard perception, specific regulations for motorcycles. You will also learn to operate the vehicle and perform basic maintenance.

After you have completed your CBT it's time to take the Theory Test. It's a multiple choice test, and it's best to purchase the official expert 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 up website to 130cc without plates and also carry passengers. This is a more thorough exam than the CBT, and covers manoeuvring exercises like wheeling your bike and the completion of an eight-figure figure.

If you're over the age of 19 you can upgrade your A1 licence to an A2 license after two years, which will allow you to ride a scooter or motorcycle that is 125cc or 11kW without plates or carrying passengers. Then, you can upgrade to the full A licence through the Direct Access route once you're 24 or older.

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 must be able to pass your A2 test to upgrade your licence category. After you've completed your CBT it's worthwhile to consider further training to enhance your riding skills and increase your confidence.

If you're seeking an efficient and versatile scooter or motorbike to start your journey towards obtaining your A1 licence, our range of Honda bikes is the ideal place to start. We have bikes such as the Honda Monkey, CB125F and MSX125 that offer a combination of performance and affordability. We can also help you choose the best finance plan to meet your needs.

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 and scooters with engines larger than 125cc and a maximum output of 35 kW (47bhp). The licence permits you to ride on motorways and to carry passengers. The licence is available at the age of 19 or older and will aid in the process of converting to a full A license by using progressive access.

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

After you have passed your CBT, you can take the A2 Restricted Motorbike Test. The test is comprised of two parts: Module 1 as well as Module 2. Both tests will require you to bring a bicycle that meets the minimum cc requirements for A2. This bike should have an engine size that is at least 395cc and must have a maximum restricted power output of 35kW (47bhp).

After passing the A2 Restricted Motorcycle Test you can now ride any motorbike or scooter with an engine greater than 125cc. This includes the majority of scooters. In dealerships and online it is commonplace to see bikes advertised as "A2" in the event that they meet the power requirements. This is particularly true for bikes that are more expensive and provide a higher level of performance.

The A2 licence can be a great method to inject new life into your bike. Achieving your A2 licence allows you to enjoy more powerful and faster bikes and can increase your confidence on the road. You'll also save money on insurance because most A2-ready motorcycles are in the category of group 10, however a superbike that's fast could be in group 19. The A2 licence isn't an unrestricted motorcycle license, but it can be a good opportunity to build your experience and confidence before making the leap to a full A licence.