 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
he Institute of Advanced Motorist (IAM) is an organisation which promotes road safety. It is the most well known of the advanced driving tests.
The test entails driving for one and a half hours on different types of roads, including town, urban, country, dual carriageway and motorways, covering a distance of somewhere between 35 and 40 mile radius. During which, you must display a positive but safe attitude towards any hazards that you have to deal with.
You must also be sympathetic to your engines needs, by being in the right gear, at the right time and at the appropriate speed. You must be aware of the movement of others all around you before making any decisions.
The test will be conducted by a Police Advanced Driver who has a Certificate in that skill and have had experience in Traffic Patrol work.
The examiner will be looking for the following skills:
- Safety - It goes without saying that you must exhibit total safety for all concerned;
- Systematic - The IAM uses the police system of car control. It is a way of approaching and negotiating all situations that is safe, methodical, and leaves nothing to chance.
- Smooth - with regard to anticipation and unhurried actions;
- Speed - The correct use of. The ability to make progress is an important advanced driving skill, but progress must never compromise safety.
At the end of the test, your examiner will give you a full debrief on any faults you committed and give you the result, whether you passed of failed.
Where can I get training from, for the IAM test?Although the IAM is a national organisation, it does have local groups, who's members are more than willing to offer 'observed runs', that is, they will assess your driving and make any recommendations that may need improving. However, if you've passed the ADI test, you shouldn't need any remedial training!!
What training materials do I need?
A book called "Roadcraft" - The Essential police drivers handbook
"Pass Your Advanced Driving Test" - which gives more details of the IAM test.
Both books can be obtained from Amazon.co.uk, or any good bookshops.
How much does it cost?
- £45, which includes the test and a years membership to to IAM - or - £75 which includes the cost of the test, national membership, and membership to a local group.
Where can I find out more info?
The starting point would be: the Institute of Advanced Motorist website.
