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IAM RoadSmart — Official Group, York
Our Courses
Additional on-road knowledge and skills, above and beyond what is taught when you learn to drive. All you need is a valid licence and your own car.
We want to help you to get more enjoyment out of driving, grow friendships, and create memorable experiences, now and in the future.
What we offer
Education for the committed driver
Whether you’re preparing for the Advanced Test, Fellowship or Masters — we have a course for you.
Advanced Driver Course
Develop your on-road skills with a qualified observer using the IPSGA framework. Work at your own pace, in your own car, on roads you already know.
Fellowship
Already passed the Advanced Test? Fellowship develops your skills further with an experienced fellow, refining your technique and driving philosophy.
Masters
The highest standard of civilian driving in the UK. A rigorous assessment for those who take safe, skilled driving seriously.
Advanced Drivers Course
Course overview
Our Advanced Driver course will give you additional on-road knowledge and skills, above and beyond what is taught when you learn to drive. All you need is a valid licence and your own car.
About the course
What does skilful driving mean to you?
Fuel efficiency? Enhanced observation and planning skills? Or simply better control of your vehicle?
Whichever area of driving you’re looking to improve, our course brings your skills up to an advanced level and helps you to get more out of driving.
For the duration of the course, you’ll be paired with one of our highly skilled Observers, themselves Advanced Drivers who hold an additional Institute of the Motor Industry qualification.
Our Observers will meet you in a location that is convenient for you both. You will drive in your own vehicle. Please ensure that your vehicle has a suitable front passenger seat with functioning seat belt for your Observer.
On the road
How the training works
Over a series of observed drives, you’ll work together on developing your on-road skills. You’ll learn how to continually apply the IPSGA framework (Information, Position, Speed, Gear, Acceleration) to a variety of on-road situations including on bends, motorways, and during overtakes.
We’ll send you a handbook to help you keep track of your progress, and you’ll have time to practise and hone your new skills between each session.
You can even take advantage of your local Group and meet up with others on the course to discuss and share your newfound knowledge and skills.
When you’re ready, your Observer will put you forward for your Advanced Test with one of our Examiners. Upon completion, you’ll gain Advanced Driver and IAM RoadSmart Member status.
Or scan the QR code at one of our group events to book directly.
How it works
Your journey to advanced driving
1
Join IAM RoadSmart
Sign up online and become an IAM RoadSmart associate member to access training.
2
Meet your observer
We match you with a qualified volunteer observer based in the York area.
3
Train together
Regular 1-to-1 observed drives on roads you already know, at your own pace.
4
Take the test
When you’re ready, your Observer will put you forward for the Advanced Test.
The course introductory morning was excellent – I met other people doing the course and the training team put us at ease.
York Advanced Drivers member
“I enjoy my driving even more now!”
York Advanced Drivers member
Common questions
What you might be wondering
Do I need to join IAM RoadSmart first?
Yes — you’ll need to join as an associate before we can match you with an observer. It’s straightforward to do online, and we can walk you through it at one of our group events.
How long does the course take?
There’s no set timeline — you progress at the pace that’s right for you. Your Observer will let you know when you’re ready to sit the Advanced Test.
What car do I use?
Your own car. You’ll also need a suitable front passenger seat with a functioning seat belt for your Observer. Sessions take place on roads local to you both.
What do I get when I pass?
Upon completion of the Advanced Test you’ll gain Advanced Driver and IAM RoadSmart Member status — and may qualify for reduced car insurance premiums.
Can I meet up with other people on the course?
Yes — you can take advantage of your local Group and meet up with others on the course to discuss and share your newfound knowledge and skills.
Who are the Observers?
Our Observers are qualified Advanced Drivers who also hold an Institute of the Motor Industry qualification. They volunteer their time entirely free of charge.
Ready to become a safer driver?
Book your Advanced Driving course today — all you need is a valid licence and your own car.