Frequently Asked Questions

Why do people join the Advanced Drivers?
The main reason people give for joining the group is that they want to know that they are driving as safely as possible. Some people have had an accident and partly blame themselves, or realise that they have forgotten a lot of what they had learnt in their driving test. Everyone who joins wants to make their driving better, and all achieve that.

I am already a good driver. I have never had an accident. What can the group do for me?
Remember that 80% of drivers think that they are above average. It is always difficult to tell how good you are. You may well be a good driver, but everyone can improve and make their driving better and safer. Even the tutors of our group have lessons to ensure that their standards have not slipped, and they still have to re-take their test every three years. Why not come to one of our public meetings and take advantage of a free driving check.

Is it expensive to become an advanced driver?
No. Your annual membership of the group costs only £15 and for that you will get all the tuition you need. You can remain a member for as long as you wish, by simply paying your subscription each year. If you choose to take your RoSPA Advanced Driving Test at the end of your training, then you will have to pay for that. The current cost is £48. The RoSPA Advanced Driving Certificate must be renewed every three years, to ensure that you have not forgotten what you have learnt.

How long will it take to pass the test?
Most people who join the group take about one year to pass their test, if they have a one hour lesson every two weeks. Obviously, it depends on how experienced a driver you are when you start and how quickly you learn. Your tutor will give you as many lessons as you require.
We aim for associate members to take their tests within 2 years of joining the group.

Do I have to take the test?
No. You can just have a few lessons if you wish, then walk away. We encourage people to take the test if they want to, but is is not a requirement. Our aim is to improve the driving standards of our members. The test is just proof of that improvement.

Is there an age limit on joining the group?
There is no age limit. Membership can start as early as your 18th birthday and there is no upper limit. Our members range in age from about 20 to over 80. All members must hold a full UK driving licence and you will be required to produce this, along with current car insurance and MOT documents, upon joining.

I have never been to one of your meetings, what are they like?
Meetings are free and open to anyone, even if you are not a member. See our Meetings Page for details.
After the meeting, you can take one of our tutors out for a drive. They can give you a general assessment or give you specific help as required. This usually lasts about half an hour.

Do I need to have a fast car to be an advanced driver?
No. Members of the group have all sorts of different cars. Small or large, old or new, it doesn't matter. What is important is that you want to drive your car safely, and that is what we can help you to do. We do insist on though is that your car is road-legal.

Can you guarantee that I will not have an accident after passing the Advanced Driving Test?
Sadly, no. But people who have passed an advanced driving test are much less likely to have an accident. You will be taught how to see hazards earlier, how to cope with dangers better and how to handle your car skilfully. Some insurance companies recognise this by giving up to 30% reduction on your premium if you have passed an advanced driving test. If you want to reduce the likelihood of having an accident, remember that 95% of accidents are caused by driver error.

The tutors are volunteers, why do they give up their time for free?
There is not really a good answer to this. All tutors hold a current RoSPA Advanced Driving Certificate, and want to help other people to drive more safely. It is very pleasing to see drivers improve their skills. After you have passed your test, you may, if you wish, have further training and then become a tutor yourself, but this is not for everyone.

I have a specific question about driving, can you answer it?
Yes. Simply send us an email. You will get a personal response with a detailed answer to your question. Your e-mail address will not be passed on to anyone else other than the officers of this group without your permission and you will not get ANY junk mail.