Why Buy A1 and A2 Driver's Licenses?


The A1 licence gives you a step up in training and riding privileges in comparison to the Compulsory Basic Training (CBT). The size of the engine on motorcycles that have an A1 licence is restricted to 125cc.

The new license format, introduced in 2011 shows the bearer's name, photo as well as the date of issue and categories that are allowed on the laminated plastic card. The cards are available at driving schools and training centres.

What is an A1 licence?

The A1 is the first step in riding a motorcycle or scooter for children. It's the only license 17 & 18 year olds are able to obtain and allows them to ride bikes up to 125cc with no L plates. You can also carry a person and use motorways without having to display your learner's licenses both front and back.

The A1 licence does not allow you to purchase a bicycle, but it will allow you to learn to ride with a limited budget. You can also move to the next stage, which is the Direct Access Scheme A Licence (for those aged 24 and older) or the Restricted A2 Licence (19-23 year olds).

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

In the hands-on sessions, you will master the fundamental techniques required to operate a motorbike or scooter. This includes manoeuvring the bike in an eight-point figure, driving it, and a slow-speed control. You'll need to pass the practical and theory tests to obtain your A1 licence.

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

Honda has a wide range of bikes you can choose from if you are contemplating upgrading your A1 license. From the practical and comfortable Honda CB125F to the sporty Honda MSX125G 'Grom', there's something for all. When selecting the Honda motorcycle to get your A1 licence, it's essential that you take into consideration your budget and preferences, as well as your purpose for using it. If you intend to use your A1 bike on daily commutes and commutes, then a commuter model like the Honda CB125F is the best.

What is an A2 license?

The A2 licence is a great option for those who wish to ride bigger more powerful bikes, but aren't yet ready for an A licence. You can get this licence from the age of 19 and it allows you to ride an engine that is not more than 35 kW or 47bhp. It also allows you to carry a pillion passenger and take a ride on motorways.

After having passed your CBT and Motorcycle Theory Test, you can start training for your A2 license. This will take between a few weeks to a few months, depending on the date you book a course and how many hours of training you will need. The total cost of A2 training for your licence will differ depending on your requirements and the duration of the course - prices begin at PS400 for introductory courses of a short duration and range up to the PS900+ range for complete training including mod 1 and 2.

Mod 1 and Mod 2 are the two components of your test which you must pass in order to get an A2 license. You can take these tests on any road-legal bicycle that meets the power output requirements of the A2 license. It is typical for dealers and online sellers to market their bikes as 'A2' bikes - so be sure to check the specs when choosing one as not all of them will meet the specification requirements.

After you have passed your A2 driving test, you are able to remove your L-plates and enjoy riding your more powerful motorbike. You can also carry passengers and take a ride on motorways. And of course you will not need to display your learner plates front and rear.

If you decide to upgrade from your A1 license to a full A license, you'll need to complete the entire course of training in addition to both parts of the practical test, but it can be much quicker and less stressful if you already have experience with the higher levels of bike.

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 licence. However, you should be aware that the A license restricts your ability to drive certain vehicles. It also increases the legal limit for alcohol for drivers to 80 mg/100ml.

How do I get an A1 license?

The first step in obtaining an A1 license is to complete a Compulsory Base Training (CBT) Course. This course will give you the knowledge and skills you need to ride on two wheels safely. This includes the road rules such as hazard perception, specific motorcycle regulations. You'll also be taught how to operate the vehicle and perform essential maintenance.

After you've completed your CBT it is time to take the Theory Test. It's a multiple-choice test and it's recommended 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 as high as 125cc without L plates and to carry passengers. This is a more thorough exam than the CBT and includes manoeuvring activities such as wheeling your bike and completing an eight-figure figure.

If you're older than 19 you can upgrade your A1 licence to an A2 licence after two years, which allows you to use a motorcycle or scooter that is 125cc or 11kW without plates or carrying passengers. You can then move on to the full A licence via the Direct Access route once you're at least 24 years old.

There are certain riders who prefer to stay on an A1 license for life however if you're looking to move to larger and more powerful bikes in the future, it's a good idea to get through your A2 test so that you can upgrade your category of licence. After completing your CBT it's worth considering additional training to improve your riding and increase your confidence.

If you're looking for a reliable and versatile motorbike or scooter to get started on your A1 licence, our range of Honda bikes is a great place to start. We have bikes such as the Honda Monkey, CB125F and MSX125 which offer a blend of quality and affordability. We can also help you find the most suitable finance plan for your needs.

How do I obtain an A2 license?

An A2 licence is a limited version of a category A motorcycle licence. This licence allows you 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 to those aged 19 and over and will speed up the process for upgrading to a full-A license by allowing progressive access.

The first step towards obtaining an A2 license is to obtain a CBT. It is a one-day training that will cost you around PS70-PS100 and will teach you the fundamentals of riding a motorbike or scooter. It is a combination of theory and practice.

After passing your CBT you can then take the A2 Restricted Motorbike Test. This test consists of two parts: Module 1 as well as Module 2. You'll 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 that is at least 395cc with a maximum power output of 37bhp.

If you pass your A2 Restricted Motorcycle Test, you'll be able ride any motorcycle or scooter with a motor that is larger than 125cc. This includes the majority of scooters. On the internet and in dealerships it is commonplace to see bikes marketed as "A2" when they meet power requirements. sverigeexpresskort.com is especially true for more expensive bikes that provide a higher level of performance.

The A2 licence can be an excellent method to inject new life into your bike. Getting your A2 licence allows you to ride more powerful and faster bikes, and will make you much more confident on the road. It will also help you save money on insurance because the majority of A2-ready motorcycles will be in group 10, while the fastest superbike could be in group 19. The A2 licence isn't an unrestricted motorcycle license however it could be a good method to gain knowledge and confidence before you make the jump to a full A licence.