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The Advanced Driving Test
The Advanced Driving Test
lasts for about 90 minutes and covers between 30 and 40 miles along all types of road
(town driving, motorways, dual carriageways, country lanes).
The examiners all hold the Police Advanced Driving Certificate and have experience in
Traffic Patrol work. They have all had to deal with the consequences of poor driving, and
share a common interest in road safety.
On the test, the examiner will look for certain features within your drive. These are
described below, and the order is significant; nothing at all must compromise the first
item in the list, safety.
Your Driving Must Be...
Safe - Safety is paramount, and nothing must be allowed
to compromise it. Good observations will enable you to identify hazards well in advance.
This, coupled with a good knowledge of traffic situations, allows you to stay out of
danger at all times.
Smooth - A good driver uses all the controls
smoothly. There should be no jerk when the vehicle stops, gear changes should be
imperceptable, and all steering movements precise and controlled. Passenger comfort is the
key. Nothing should look or feel hurried.
Systematic - A systematic approach to driving is
very important. The systematic driver does not miss out vital checks and knows how to
approach new situations - all situations are approached systematically. The IAM use the
Police System of Vehicle Control.
Progressive - Progressive driving is not simply
driving fast! A progressive driver uses speed where it is safe to do so, but progressive
driving is much more than this. Good observations enable the driver to avoid holdups,
always to be in the correct lane at the correct time, and to minimise delays throughout.
Preparing for the Test
Many people are concerned
about "The Test" and the possibility of failing. One of the best ways to prepare
for the test itself is by joining Portsmouth Advanced Motorists. Here you can prepare for
the test alongside others, receiving guidance from members of the group who have already
passed their test, and participate in the social activities organised by the groups.
The System of Vehicle
Control is described in detail in the Police
manuals, Roadcraft and Motorcycle Roadcraft,
and the IAM publications Pass Your Advanced Driving Test and Pass
your Advanced Motorcycle Test. They are available from HMSO and good
bookshops.
The Advanced Driving
Test is a voluntary driving test for those drivers who wish to find out whether they can
meet the IAM standards of a safe, legal and progressive drive.Any fool can make fast progress by dangerous, discourteous and
illegal driving: the IAM challenge is to maximise your progress while driving
safely, legally and courteously at all times.
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