Advanced Driving Tests

You have a Choice

The UK offers a number of advanced driving tests designed to cultivate a higher standard of on-road competence, safety, and confidence. Engaging with these programs not only makes you a better driver but can also bring tangible benefits, such as better fuel economy, reduced risk of accidents and above all, more enjoyment from driving.

This article delves into the most prominent advanced driving tests available in the UK, exploring their philosophies, structures, and what they can offer the conscientious motorist.

The Philosophy of Advanced Driving

At its core, advanced driving is a systematic approach to operating a vehicle. It’s about anticipation, planning, and maintaining a calm, courteous, and methodical mindset behind the wheel.

The foundation for most advanced driving in the UK is 'Roadcraft: The Police Driver's Handbook,' a manual that has shaped the training of police drivers for decades. This system, often referred to as "the system of car control," provides a framework for approaching and negotiating hazards in a safe and efficient manner.

IAM RoadSmart and RoSPA

Two major charitable organisations dominate the advanced driving landscape in the UK: IAM RoadSmart (formerly the Institute of Advanced Motorists) and the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (RoSPA).

While both share the common goal of improving road safety, their approaches to testing and membership have distinct differences.

IAM RoadSmart: A Journey of Mentorship

IAM RoadSmart offers a structured "Advanced Driver Course" which is a package of guidance and support leading up to the advanced test. For a one-off fee, currently around £175 (2025), aspiring advanced drivers are paired with a trained volunteer ‘Observer’ from a local IAM group. These Observers, themselves advanced drivers, provide a series of one-on-one observed drives in the candidate's own vehicle.

The process is one of mentorship and coaching. The Observer will introduce the principles of advanced driving and provide feedback on a series of drives, covering a variety of road types and conditions. This continues until the candidate is deemed ready for the advanced test.

The IAM RoadSmart Test:

• Duration: The test itself lasts for approximately 90 minutes.
• Examiner: The test is conducted by an IAM examiner, who is typically a serving or retired police advanced driver.
• Content: The examiner will assess the candidate's ability to apply the principles of advanced driving in a real-world setting. This includes cornering, overtaking, dealing with hazards, and demonstrating a systematic approach to driving. A commentary on the drive may be requested.
• Result: The test is a straightforward pass or fail. Upon passing, the candidate becomes a full member of IAM RoadSmart.

Benefits of IAM RoadSmart:

• Structured Learning: The observed drives provide a supportive and structured learning environment.
• Community: Membership provides access to a network of like-minded individuals through local groups, events, and a members' magazine.
• Insurance Discounts: Many insurance companies recognise the IAM Advanced Driver qualification and offer reduced premiums.

RoSPA Advanced Drivers and Riders

The Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (RoSPA) offers a more direct route to the advanced test. While local RoSPA groups also provide training with volunteer tutors, it is possible to apply directly for the test without undertaking a formal course of observed drives, though preparation is highly recommended.

The RoSPA Advanced Driving Test:

• Duration: The test typically lasts between 60 and 90 minutes.
• Examiner: Similar to IAM RoadSmart, RoSPA examiners are serving or retired police officers with advanced driving qualifications.
• Content: The test assesses driving performance against the principles of 'Roadcraft'. It covers a wide range of road and traffic conditions.
• Grading System: A key differentiator for RoSPA is its graded result system: Bronze, Silver, or Gold. A Gold grade is the highest civilian driving standard available and is a significant achievement.
• Re-testing: To maintain their grade, RoSPA members are required to be re-tested every three years. This encourages a continuous commitment to high driving standards.

Benefits of RoSPA:

• Graded Achievement: The graded system provides a clear benchmark of driving ability and a goal to strive for.
• Focus on Continuous Improvement: The mandatory re-testing ensures that driving skills remain sharp.
• Cost-Effective: The test fee is generally lower than the initial outlay for the IAM course, making it an accessible option.

The Driving Masters Alternative

If you are passionate about driving and want to immerse yourself in high intensity coaching then Driving Masters offers a more hardcode option.

Driving Masters Coaching offers a much more flexible approach, allowing you to work with an elite driving coach for a day on the skills you want to focus on. We can prepare you for one of the above tests if required, but we're more interested in helping you hone every aspect of your driving to a level that you get satisfaction from. It's not about qualifications necessarily - it's about personal development.