Why Buy A1 and A2 Driver's Licenses?

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

The new licence format, introduced in 2011, displays the name of the person who is holding it, their photo as well as the date of issue and allowed categories on a laminated plastic card. These cards are sold at driving schools and training centres.

What is A1 license?

The A1 license is the first step for youngsters who want to ride a motorcycle or scooter. It's the only license that 17 and 18-year-olds are able to obtain and allows them to ride bikes with a capacity of up to 125cc with no L plates. This also means that you can carry passengers or ride on motorways, and not be required to display learner plates in front and rear.

The process of getting an A1 license doesn't mean that you can ride any bike you want, but it is a great opportunity to learn how to ride a budget-friendly bike, with the added benefit of being able to progress 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). It is a two-part program that involves theory lessons and practical riding. The theory lessons are focused on road rules and hazard awareness.

In the practical sessions you will master the fundamental abilities required to operate a motorbike or scooter. This includes manoeuvring the bike in the figure eight, turning it and a slow control. To obtain your A1 license, you'll need both the theory and the practice test.

After two years of driving an A1 bike, you can upgrade to an A2 bike that is more powerful in case you aren't satisfied with the power. However, this means you'll have to finish the CBT program again and pass an actual test on the new bike.

If you're thinking of upgrading your A1 licence then you should think about looking into the various Honda bikes that are available. From the comfortable and practical Honda CB125F, to the sporty Honda MSX125G 'Grom' there's something for all. It's important to think about your preferences, budget and purpose of use when selecting the Honda motorcycle for your A1 licence. For instance, if planning to use your A1 bike for daily commutes, it's best to select one that is a commuter model like the Honda CB125F.

What is A2 license?

The A2 license is perfect for those who want to ride larger and more powerful bikes but aren't quite ready for the full A licence. You can get this licence before the age of 19 and will allow you to drive bikes that produce no more than 35 kW or 47bhp, carry a pillion rider and take a 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 days to a few months, depending on how soon you can book onto a course, and how much training you will need. The cost of A2 training for your licence varies based on the length of the training and your requirements. Prices start at around PS400 for a short introduction course and can increase to PS900+ for a full training, including mod 1 and mod 2.

Mod 1 and Mod 2 are the two parts of your practical test that you must pass in order to get an A2 license. You can test on any road-legal bicycle that is able to meet the requirements for power output in the A2 license. It is common for dealers and online sellers to advertise their bikes as 'A2' bikes - so make sure to verify the specifications prior to purchasing one as not all of them will meet the specification requirements.

Once you have successfully passed your A2 driving test, you can 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 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 course again, including the two parts of the test. However, it can be quicker and less stressful if your bike is already at a higher level.

The A1 licence is valid for two years and after that, you may choose to take a practical exam for the A licence - though you must remember that the full A licence can limit your ability to drive certain types of vehicles and also raises the legal alcohol limit for drivers to 80mg/100ml.

How do I apply for an A1 license?

The first step towards getting an A1 license is to complete a Compulsory Base 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 perception and motorcycle-specific regulations. You'll also be taught how to operate the vehicle and perform necessary 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 read more official expert revision book from the DVSA to help you get through the test. The next step is taking the actual A1 test. This test will permit you to ride a moped up to 125cc without L plates and also carry passengers. This is a much more comprehensive test than the CBT and covers manoeuvring exercises like wheeling your bike and completing an eight-figure figure.

If you're over 19 you can upgrade your A1 license to an A2 license after two years, which allows you to use a motorbike or scooter with 125cc or 11kW without L plates or carrying a passenger. Once you reach the age of 24, you'll be able to move up to the full A license through Direct Access.

Some riders prefer to keep their A1 licences for life. However, if you plan to upgrade to a larger and more powerful bike in the near future you must pass your A2 test to upgrade your license category. After you've completed your CBT it's worthwhile to consider additional training to improve your riding and boost your confidence.

If you're looking for an affordable and reliable scooter or motorbike to get started on your A1 licence, our range of Honda bikes is a great place to start. We have bikes like the Honda Monkey, CB125F and MSX125 that provide a mix of efficiency and affordability. We can also help you find the right finance package that meets your requirements.

How do I get an A2 license?

An A2 licence is a restricted version of a category A motorcycle licence. The licence permits you to ride motorbikes and scooters with engines larger than 125cc, and a maximum power output of 35 kW (47bhp). The licence also allows you to carry passengers on pillion 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 licence through progressive access.

The first step in obtaining an A2 license is to obtain an CBT. This is a single-day course that will cost you around PS70-PS100. It will teach you the fundamentals of riding a motorbike or scooter. It is a combination of theoretical and practical lessons.

After you've completed your CBT you are now able to move on to take the A2 Restricted Motorcycle Test. The test is split into two parts: Modules 1 & 2. You'll need to bring your bike to both tests. It must meet the minimum cc requirements for A2. The bike must have an engine that is at least 395cc with the maximum power output of 37bhp.

If you pass your A2 Restricted Motorcycle Test, you will be able to ride any motorcycle or scooter with a motor larger than 125cc. This is the case with most scooters. It is common for sellers online and in dealerships to market bikes as "A2" in the event that they meet the requirements for power output. This is particularly applicable to bikes that are more expensive and offer the highest level of performance.

The A2 licence is a great way to breathe new life into your bike. You can ride more powerful and faster bikes with an A2 license. It also gives you more confidence 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 license isn't an unrestricted motorcycle licence, but it can be a good method to gain knowledge and confidence before you make the jump to a full A licence.