From the age of 17 (minimum age) you have the option of obtaining a full motorcycle licence. To obtain a full motorcycle licence you will need to have a provisional motorcycle licence (category A), a valid CBT certificate (see courses/16) and a valid motorcycle theory test (see training resources).
Each full licence motorcycle course will involve a number of training days relating to your ability followed by a practical test with the Driving Standards Agency (DSA).
The courses available to you (between the ages of 17-20) are:
A1 - Light Motorcycle Licence
This course is completed on a 75-125cc machine and leads to an A1 Light Motorcycle Licence. This licence is almost like a permanent CBT. You are restricted to riding a machine no greater than 125cc with a maximum power of 14.6bhp but you do not need to display L plates and you can carry a passenger.
As this is a full licence you do not need to display L plates, you can carry passengers and can ride on the motorway.
A2 - Standard (Restricted) Motorcycle Licence
This course is completed on a 121-125cc machine and leads to an A2 Standard Motorcycle Licence. This licence is commonly called the Restricted Licence. There is no restriction on the actual size, (or cc), of the motorcycle that you can ride but for the first two years that you have the Restricted Licence, the motorcycle you ride must be mechanically restricted to 33bhp. Most motorcycles can be easily restricted at a motorcycle garage* for a minimum cost.
Once the two years have expired you do NOT have to complete any further training or need to send your driving licence to the DVLA. The only alteration that you will need to do (if you want to), is have the restriction removed (again at a reputable garage for a minimum cost). This is a popular licence as having a full, but restricted licence can keep your insurance premium to a minimum.
As this is a full licence you do not need to display L plates, you can carry passengers and can ride on the motorway.
Accelerated Access
For students that have successfully completed the A2 Standard Licence (see above) and who reach the age of 21 while still within the two year period, (where they are restricted to 33bhp), they may take a further test on a motorcycle of at least 46.6bhp (approximately 500cc).
On completion of this further test the restriction on the students existing A2 licence will be removed. The student may practice on motorcycles over 33bhp under the same practice conditions as for direct access students. Whilst practising you will revert to learner status. A test failure will not affect your existing motorcycle licence.
* For all servicing, repairs, restrictions and de-restrictions, MOT's and collections/deliveries please contact Surepass Mechanical Services on 01752 301313 or info@a-surepass.co.uk
SUREPASS RECOMMENDS:
There is no difference in cost or training between the A1 and the A2 licence so we recommend the A2 licence to Surepass students as it gives you more choice. You do not have to ride a bigger bike but the option is always there!