What is RoSPA?

In the context of advanced driving, RoSPA (Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents) is a UK-based charity that offers a highly regarded and challenging advanced driving test and training program. Their aim in this specific area is to improve road safety by significantly raising driving standards, knowledge, and skill.

RoSPA Advanced Drivers and Riders (RoADAR)

This is the specific arm of RoSPA dedicated to advanced driver and rider training and testing. RoADAR has numerous local groups across the UK where volunteer tutors (who are themselves advanced drivers, often with a RoSPA Gold grade) provide guidance and training.

The RoSPA Advanced Driving Test:

• Highly Regarded: It's considered one of the most comprehensive and challenging advanced driving tests available to the public in the UK.
• Based on "Roadcraft": The test is based on the principles outlined in "Roadcraft: The Police Driver's Handbook," which is the foundation for police driver training. It emphasizes a systematic approach to driving, including observation, anticipation, planning, and vehicle control (often remembered by the acronym IPSGA: Information, Position, Speed, Gear, Accelerate).
• Graded System: Uniquely, the RoSPA advanced test is graded: Gold, Silver, or Bronze. A Gold is the highest civilian driving standard available and signifies a very high level of driving skill and safety.
• Re-testing: To maintain their qualification, RoSPA advanced drivers are required to take a re-test every three years. This ensures that their high standards are maintained over time.
• Examiners: The examiners are typically serving or retired police officers with their own advanced driving qualifications.
• Duration: The test usually lasts around 60 to 90 minutes and covers a variety of road types and traffic conditions, including town, country, and, where possible, motorway driving. It also includes questions on the Highway Code and Roadcraft.