Why you should consider an Advanced Driver course

Skilful driving means something different to everyone. For some, it’s simply how well you can control your vehicle, while others may focus more on fuel efficiency or enhanced observation and planning skills. Whichever area you hope to improve (perhaps it’s all three), you can get even more out of your driving with IAM RoadSmart’s Advanced Driver course.

This expert course, which is quality assured by the Driver & Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA), will put your driving skills to the test, as you learn additional on-road knowledge that goes above and beyond what is taught when you first learn to drive. The course fee covers the cost of the test, drives with an IAM RoadSmart Observer, a course manual and a year’s membership – all for just £175.

What is an Advanced Driver course and how does it work?

Advanced Driving is based on the system of car control that was initially developed to keep police drivers safe and is still used today in training emergency service drivers. The course teaches you advanced-level driving techniques, including utilising the ‘limit point’ for bends and how to continually apply the IPSGA (Information, Position, Speed, Gear, Acceleration) framework to all on-road situations. One of IAM RoadSmart’s friendly Observers will show you how to apply the IPSGA framework on every type of journey, so you’ll be able to plan for hazards and deal with them safely and confidently.

“Anyone who values their driving or riding skills and wants to be the best on the road should sign up for a course,” says member Tony W-E. “Once you’ve passed your assessment there are plenty of opportunities to continue honing your skills. As a bonus, there is the social side as well.”

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Once you’ve purchased your course, you’ll receive a welcome pack in the post and one of your local groups will be in touch to arrange your first drive. You’ll then develop your Advanced skills over a series of observed drives, which generally takes around 6-12 sessions. Once you’re ready, you’ll take your Advanced Test with one of the Examiners. When you pass, you’ll gain ‘Advanced Driver’ and ‘IAM RoadSmart Full Member’ status.

Why IAM RoadSmart?

As the UK’s largest independent road safety charity, IAM RoadSmart has spent more than 60 years making roads safer by improving driver and rider skills through coaching and education.

Over the years, it’s built up a network of around 180 local IAM RoadSmart car and bike groups that, upon becoming a member, you can join and meet like-minded individuals to discuss and share your newfound knowledge. Plus, you’ll get a subscription to the IAM RoadSmart magazine, as well as exclusive member benefits and discounts.

And it could even save you money on your car insurance. In August 2022, the market rate average for annual car insurance was £325.74, however 52% of new policies sold by Cornmarket (IAM RoadSmart’s insurance partner) to IAM RoadSmart members were just £275 or less.

To find out more about IAM RoadSmart or to book your Advanced Driving course, click below. Or, why not add an IAM RoadSmart Advanced Driver course to your Christmas list or snap up some gift vouchers, to treat somebody else?

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