Advanced Driving Test

The Advanced Driving Test, and equivalent advanced riding test for motorcycles, is offered in the United Kingdom by the Institute of Advanced Motorists (IAM). It is based on Roadcraft, the police driving system. It was introduced in 1956 to improve driving standards, following principles set out by the Metropolitan Police. It is open to anyone who has passed the standard driving test.

Examiners all hold a Police Advanced Driving Certificate. The test covers 30 to 40 miles (48 to 64 km) on different types of road, from town to country, city and country. Students will have trained in all areas and have to demonstrate the techniques and methods they’ve learned. Some insurers will offer reduced vehicle insurance premiums to holders of an advanced certificate.

Advanced driving and riding tests can also be provided by other organisations such as the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (RoSPA), the Driving Instructors' Association DIAmond Advanced Test and the British Motorcyclists Federation (BMF) Blue Riband.

Advanced Driving definition (UK), as agreed by the Driving Instructors' Association (DIA), Driving Standards Agency, Institute of Advanced Motorists, Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents is "The ability to control the position and speed of the vehicle safely, systematically and smoothly using road and traffic conditions to make reasonable progress unobtrusively, with skill and responsibility. This requires a positive but courteous attitude and a high standard of driving competence based on concentration, effective all round observation, anticipation and planning co-ordinated with good handling skills. The vehicle should always be at the right place on the road at the right time, travelling at the right speed with the correct gear engaged and can always be stopped safely in the distance that can be seen to be clear.

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