Under what circumstances would you consider doing an advanced driving course?

Answer 1

Any time after you have your full licence. The driving test standard doesn't make anybody a good driver automatically. The instructors/observers who run advanced courses spend time with trainees usually on a one to one basis. They get into smooth driving techniques, driver observation standards (very important in helping the trainee to avoid getting into an accident siuation) and positioning on the road, particularly when cornering. It can be a surprise to the newly qualified driver when he/she finds out just how much he/she doesn't know. Advantages are that you can get more enjoyment out of your driving and most insurance companies give Advanced drivers premium reductions. Go for it!!!

Answer 2

Did mine back in 1984, seeing this has reminded me it's about time I contacted my local group for some refreshers.As an ex driving instructor I can recall giving advanced training to some individuals. Many, however, had difficulty with forward planning and observation which I just didn't get with most of my pre-test pupils,this seems to suggest that poor attitude and lazy driving are acquired after test together with experience.I think this is why drivers should take extra tuition if not necessarily an advanced test.
This then brings up the point that if you are so humble that you would consider a test your attitude and probably your ability is OK.If you are confident that you would gain nothing from advanced training then the probabilities are that you desperately need it.
I have never managed to save on premiums after passing the IAM test.
This may sound a bit egotistical but I have found a few techniques extolled by the IAM a bit 'thirties' And often experts don't like to be out-advanced

Answer 3

Any circumstance. I did mine because I wanted to be a better driver.

An advanced driving course will quite simply make you a better driver an dramatically reduce your chances of becoming an accident statistic. Statistics show that drivers who have passed the Advanced Driving test are 50-70% less likely to be involved in an accident.

Both the Institute of Advanced Motorists and The Royal Society for The Prevention of Accidents will provide free advanced training, the only cost being if you want to take an advanced test. The test is £85 with the IAM and £48 with RoSPA. There is a discount for young drivers.

Answer 4

I beleive it's a must for all police cadets but my husband did one years ago and passed so I personally think I would do one under any circumstances particularly now with the shocking amount of idiots on the road driving today..
I would also like to know how and where I could do an advanced driving test

Answer 5

I have a full motorcycle licence, car and HGV 1 and I passed all these tests 1st time now that does not make me a perfect driver/rider.
I feel that it about time the powers that be did something REAL to make the roads safer. Harder tests, repeat testing, medicals, longer probation periods for new drivers and this must be funded by the driver as I feel that this in turn would save us the road user/funder millions in accident investigation and therefore the road system could be improved and the insurance companies would undoubtedly reduce our premiums as their payouts would significantly reduce.
Here is where your question comes in. If I was to pass an advanced test would you "significantly" reduce my premium ? A bit like the above scenario "I think not"
OK if you were to answer a Yes to that how much safer would I be on the roads. I think "none" as you would need to enforce all road users to do the same to make sure that we were all on the same level.
In addition to all of the above and more to the point "Why are the roads such a seriously dangerous place" do we need a better enforcement to those that continue to make them so.
Well you did ask and thats me done for now

Answer 6

When you think you can drive to the standard of the departments manual. This is the manual that people learn from or should be taught from when taking their driving test. The advanced driving test involves thinking ahead and talking about the things you see whilst driving, such as the dog on the footpath. The children playing further up the road. in other words advanced thinking in all situations. But first you must be a good driver and drive to the book. And that means everything.

Answer 7

I did an advanced drivers licence in south africa with the AA, I then completed an anti hijack/defencive driving course. In my opinion it was the best training I have ever received with respect to driving.
In my opinion the advance licence should be a pre-requisite for any newly passed driver as it shows so much that is not covered by the normal driving course.

Answer 8

My father in law teaches advanced driving which I find a bit of a cheek as he's had so many speeding tickets.He's always criticising everyone else's driving.I'd never have lessons with him.Anyway, the only reason I'd consider doing an advanced driving course would be to lower my insurance.I don't like driving, but I'm glad that I can.

Answer 9

I would like to do an advanced driving course but find them expensive.

I think the DSA/DVLA should ensure anyone under 21 and learning to drive pays full price to have an advanced driving course thrown in to be able to pass their final test. Anyone over 21 should get it reduced in price but still be compulserary to take one. Anyone who is currently driving now should be allowed to take one for a small fee.

Alternatively, I think people who pass their driving test should be restricted on what they can drive, like motorcyclists. I think 60bhp is more than enough for 3 years to gain road experience!

Answer 10

I'd love to do one, I'm going for paramedics next year and you cant do paramedics course until you have full car and van licence...but after that you're free to tear around the place in an ambulance with no advanced driving experience...I think it should be mandatory that you take an advanced driving course before you qualify as a paramedic!