The advanced programme - a skill for life

As the name suggests, better driving is not a one-time benefit but a real skill for life.

Recognising that the majority of collisions are caused by driver error, the IAM’s Advanced Driving Test was introduced in 1956 with the specific objective of significantly improving driving standards using the principles of advanced driving pioneered and applied with great success by the Metropolitan Police. The tests are now accredited by the Driving Standards Agency (DSA).

The Advanced Test is not exclusively about safety, but encourages the driver to feel confident on the road, to make good progress, and to get greater enjoyment from the experience.

To date, over 400,000 people have taken the Advanced Test. The pass rate is around 75%, and we currently have over 100,000 active members.

The IAM Skill for Life package contains everything you need to get your driving skills up to speed. The package includes:

• An initial assessment with an IAM voluntary observer from a local IAM Group
• Six-on-road sessions conducted with a qualified advanced driver (more can be added at no extra cost if required)
• The definitive guide to advanced driving techniques 'How to be a better driver'
• Membership of your local IAM group, with invitations to group events
• Full preparation for your Advanced Driving Test
• Your Advanced Test with a qualified examiner
• An IAM Advanced Driving Certificate on passing the test
• 12-month membership of the national IAM, which includes:
  
  - Our award winning membership magazine 'Advanced Driving'
  - Access to a host of membership benefits, privileges and discounts
  - Special insurance discounts and policy cover once you have passed - Click HERE for more details
  - Access to the Members-only area of this website (for special events, services and member offers)

As a charitable organisation, this whole 'Skill for Life' package is available for only £139.

Driver observation will be delivered by our qualified observers network who are available via your local voluntary IAM Group. Once you have purchased your 'Skill for Life'. you will receive a directory of local groups so you can contact the most convenient one.

Typically, you can expect the whole programme, from your first assessment to test, to take 3-5 months, depending on the programme your chosen group is operating. There is often flexibility here, so discuss this with your local IAM group contact.

To purchase this programme now please go to the IAM online e-shop.

If you would like further information or have any questions you can email or call 0845 126 8600 (9am-5pm Monday to Friday) and speak to one of our Membership Services Team.

How to be a better driver 'How to be a better driver' describes in clear and easy to understand terms and pictures what is required to achieve the Advanced Driving Test (including a very useful section entitled 'What the examiner looks for'). It is very much based on the principles of the Police books 'Roadcraft', but explains exactly what is required for the IAM Test. This book is included in the 'Skill for Life' pack when you join the IAM is also available separately. You can order online, via your local IAM Group, or from good bookshops. Details are as follows:- How to be a better driver - ISBN 978-0-9562239-0-6, Published by Institute of Advanced Motorists