5 Clarifications On Buy A1 And A2 Driver's License
Why Buy A1 and A2 Driver's Licenses?
The A1 licence provides a boost in riding and training privileges compared to the Compulsory Basic Training (CBT). A1 motorcycles are limited to 125cc engines.
The new licence format, that was introduced in 2011, displays the bearer's name, photo as well as the date of issue and categories that are allowed on a laminated plastic card. The cards are available at driving schools and training centres.
What is an A1 license?
The A1 is the first step to driving a motorcycle or a scooter for children. It is the only licence that 17 and 18-year-olds can get and allows them to ride on bikes up to 125cc. You can also carry a passenger as well as use motorways without having to display your learner's licenses front and back.
The A1 license does not permit you to buy any bicycle, but it does allow you to master the art of ride with a limited budget. You can also move to the next level which is the Direct Access Scheme A Licence (for those aged 24 and older) or the Restricted A2 Licence (19-23 year olds).
You must be at least 16 years old to take the Compulsory Basic Training (CBT). This is a two-part course that includes theory and riding in the real world. The theory lessons are centered around road rules and hazard awareness.
In the sessions that are practical you'll be taught the fundamental techniques to operate a motorcycle or scooter. This includes manoeuvring in an eight-point figure as well as wheeling the bike, and a slow-speed control. You'll need to pass both the theory and the practical tests to obtain your A1 licence.
After two years of driving an A1 bike, you can upgrade to an A2 bike that is more powerful If you are not happy with the performance. This will need you to take a second CBT and pass a practical test on the new bike.
Honda offers a variety of bikes you can choose from if you are thinking about upgrading your A1 license. From the comfortable and practical Honda CB125F, to the sporty Honda MSX125G "Grom", there's something for everyone. When selecting a Honda motorcycle to get your A1 license, it's crucial to consider your budget and preferences, as well as your intended use. For example, if you're planning to use your A1 motorcycle for daily commuting then it's best to go with one that is a commuter model like the Honda CB125F.
What is an A2 licence?
The A2 licence is ideal for those who want to ride bigger and more powerful bikes but aren't yet ready for the full A license. You can get this licence from the age of 19 and will allow you to drive an engine that is not more than 35 kW or 47bhp, carry a pillion rider and use 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 weeks to a few months based on how soon you are able to book onto a course, and how many hours of training you will need. The cost of A2 license training varies depending on the duration of the course and your needs. Prices start at around PS400 for a quick 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 components of your test which you must pass to get an A2 license. You can test on any bike that has the requirements for power output of the A2 license. It is common for dealers and online sellers to market their bikes as 'A2 bikes' therefore, make sure you check the specs when choosing one as not all meet the specification requirements.
Once you have passed your A2 driving test, you can take off your L plates and enjoy riding a more powerful motorbike. You can also ride on motorways with a passenger and won't need to display the learner plates in front and back.
If you decide to upgrade A1 to a full A licence, you will have to complete the entire training program in addition to both the practical and theoretical test, but it can be a lot quicker and less stressful if you are already familiar with the higher levels of bike.
The A1 license is valid for 2 years. After that, you can choose to take a test to upgrade to an A licence. 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 licence?
The first step in gaining an A1 licence is to complete the Compulsory Basic Training (CBT) course that will provide you with the essential skills and knowledge necessary to safely ride on two-wheelers. This includes road rules, hazard awareness and specific laws for motorcycles. You will also learn to operate the vehicle and perform basic maintenance.
After you've completed your CBT, it's time to take the test in theory. This is a multiple-choice exam and you should purchase the official expert revision book from the DVSA to ensure you get through the test. The next step is to take the practical A1 test. This will allow you to ride a moped to 125cc with no L plates and also carry passengers. This is a more thorough exam than the CBT, and includes manoeuvring tasks like wheeling your bike and taking an eight-figure figure.
After two years, if you are older than 19, you can upgrade from an A1 licence to an A2 licence. This allows you to drive motorcycles or scooters with 125cc capacity and 11kW and without L plates. Once you reach the age of 24, you'll be able to move up to the full A license via 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 future you must pass your A2 test to upgrade your license category. After completing your CBT it's worthwhile to consider further training to improve your riding skills 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. Honda Monkey, CB125F, and MSX125 are just a few bikes that offer both performance and affordability. We can also help you choose the best finance plan that meets your needs.
How do I get an A2 license?
An A2 licence is a limited version of a category A full motorcycle licence. This licence allows you ride motorbikes and scooters with engine sizes greater than 125cc and a maximum output of 35kW (47bhp). The licence also allows you to pillion ride and to ride on motorways. The licence is available to those who are 19 or over, and can speed the process of upgrading to a full-A license by allowing progressive access.
The first step in obtaining an A2 license is to obtain an CBT. The one-day training will cost you between PS70 and PS100. It will teach you how to ride a motorbike or a scooter. The course includes both theoretical and practical instruction.
After Continue have completed your CBT, you are now able to move on to taking the A2 Restricted Motorcycle Test. This 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 requirement for A2. The bike must have an engine size that is at least 395cc and must have a maximum limitable power output of 35kW (47bhp).
If you pass your A2 Restricted Motorcycle Test, you'll be able ride any motorcycle or scooter that has an engine size of more than 125cc. This is the case for most scooters. In dealerships and online, it is common to see bikes marketed as "A2" in the event that they meet power requirements. This is especially true for bikes that are more expensive and offer a higher level of performance.
The A2 license can breathe new life into bikes. You can ride more powerful and faster bikes by obtaining an A2 licence. It will also give you more confidence on the road. You'll also save money on your insurance because most A2-ready bikes will fall into the group 10 category, however a superbike that's quick could be in group 19. The A2 motorcycle license is not a permit that permits you to ride any motorbike. However it will help you gain experience and confidence before upgrading to the full A licence.