Why Buy A1 and A2 Driver's Licenses?
The A1 license offers an upgrade in riding and training rights compared to Compulsory Base Training (CBT). A1 motorcycles are limited to 125cc engines.
The new licence format that was introduced in 2011 shows the name of the person who is holding it, their 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 A1 license?
The A1 licence is the first step for anyone who is young and wants to ride a motorcycle or scooter. It's the only license that 17 and 18-year-olds can obtain, and permits them to ride bikes with a capacity of up to 125cc with no L plates. You can also carry a passenger as well as travel on motorways without having to display learner licenses both front and back.
The A1 licence does not allow you to purchase a bike, but it allows you to learn how to ride with a limited budget. You can also advance to the next level which is the Direct Access Scheme A Licence (for those aged over 24) or the Restricted A2 Licence (19-23 year olds).
You must be at least 16 prior to taking the Compulsory Basic training (CBT) course. This course is split into two parts: theoretical lessons and riding. The theory lessons are focused on road rules and hazard perception.
In the hands-on sessions you'll master the fundamental skills to operate a motorcycle or scooter. This includes maneuvering in a figure of eight, wheeling the bike and a slow speed control. To obtain your A1 license you'll need to pass both the theory and the practical test.
If you're not content with the performance of your A1 bike, then you may want to upgrade to a more powerful A2 bike once you've completed two years as an A1 driver. This will require you to retake the CBT and pass a test on the practical test on the new bike.
Sverige Express Kort offers a wide selection of bikes you can pick from when contemplating upgrading your A1 license. From the practical and comfortable 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 and preferences, as well as your purpose for using it. For instance, if planning to use your A1 motorcycle for daily commutes, it's best to select a commuter-style model such as the Honda CB125F.
What is A2 license?
The A2 licence is ideal for those who want to ride bigger and more powerful bikes but aren't yet ready to get the full A license. The licence is open to those who are 19 or older. It allows you to ride a bicycle with a the maximum power of 35 kW (47bhp) as well as carry passengers, and drive on motorways.
If you pass your CBT and Motorcycle Theory Test you can begin your training for the A2 licence, which will take between a few weeks to a few months, depending on how soon you are able to sign onto a course and how many hours of training you need. The cost of A2 license training is contingent on the length of the course and your requirements. Prices start at PS400 for a short introduction course and will increase to PS900+ for a full training including mod 1 and mod 2.
Mod 1 and Mod 2 are the two parts of the test that you must pass in order to get an A2 license. You can test on any road-legal bicycle that meets the requirements for power output of the A2 license. It is typical for dealers and online sellers to advertise their bikes as 'A2 bikes' so be sure to check the specifications before you purchase one, as not all meet the specification requirements.
Once you have completed your A2 driving test, you are able to remove your L-plates and enjoy riding your more powerful motorbike. You can also take a ride on motorways with a passenger, and you won't have to display the learner plates in front and back.
If you decide to upgrade your A1 licence to a full-A license you'll have to take the entire program once more, including the two parts of the exam. However, it can be less time-consuming and less stressful if your bike is already at an upper level.
The A1 licence is valid for two years and after that, you can choose to pass an exam in order to move up to the A licence - though you must remember that the full A licence can limit the ability to drive certain vehicles and also increases the legal limit for alcohol consumption for drivers to 80mg/100ml.
How do I get an A1 license?
The first step to obtaining an A1 licence is to complete the Compulsory Basic Training (CBT) course, which will teach you the basic skills and knowledge that necessary to safely ride on two-wheelers. This includes road rules, hazard awareness and specific laws for motorcycles. You will also learn how to operate the vehicle and carry out basic maintenance.
After you have completed your CBT it's time to take the Theory Test. It's a multiple-choice test and you should buy the official expert revision book from the DVSA to ensure you pass. Next, you will take the actual A1 test. This test will permit you to ride a moped as high as 130cc without plates and carry passengers. This is a much more comprehensive test than the CBT, and includes manoeuvring activities like wheeling your bike and the completion of an eight-figure figure.
After two years, if you are older than 19 you can upgrade from an A1 to an A2 licence. This will allow you to drive motorcycles or scooters up to 125cc with 11kW and without L plates. Then, you can upgrade to the full A licence through the Direct Access route once you're older than 24.
There are certain riders who prefer to remain on an A1 license for the rest of their lives however, if you'd like to move up to bigger 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 you've completed your CBT it's worthwhile to consider further training to improve your riding and boost your confidence.
If you're seeking an affordable and reliable scooter or motorbike to get started on your A1 licence Our range of Honda bikes is the ideal place to start. We have bikes like the Honda Monkey, CB125F and MSX125 that offer a combination of performance and affordability. We can also help you find the most suitable finance plan for your needs.
How do I get an A2 license?
An A2 licence is a limited version of a category A motorcycle licence. This licence allows you use scooters and motorbikes with engine sizes greater than 125cc, and a maximum power of 35kW (47bhp). It also permits you to carry pillion passengers and ride on motorways. The licence is available to those 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 an CBT. The one-day course will cost you between PS70 and PS100. It will teach you how to ride a motorbike or scooter. The course will include both theoretical and practical instruction.
After you've completed your CBT you are now able to move on to take the A2 Restricted Motorcycle Test. This test consists of two sections: Module 1 and Module 2. You must bring your bike for both tests. It must meet the minimum cc requirements for A2. This bike must have an engine that is at least 395cc with an output of 37bhp.
After passing your A2 Restricted Motorcycle Test, you'll be able ride any motorcycle or scooter with an engine size of more than 125cc. This includes the majority of scooters. In dealerships and online, it is common to see bikes marketed as "A2" when they meet the power requirements. This is particularly relevant for bikes that are more expensive and have a higher level of performance.
The A2 licence is a great method to inject new life into your bike. You can ride more powerful and faster bikes by obtaining an A2 license. It will also give you more confidence on the road. It will also allow you to save money on insurance since most A2-ready bikes will be in group 10, whereas an ultra-fast bike could be in group 19. The A2 licence is not an unrestricted motorcycle license however it is an excellent way to build up your knowledge and confidence before you make the jump to a full A licence.