We help people raise their driving skills to a level required to pass the IAM advanced driving test. People wishing to become better drivers can apply to join one of our courses and become an associate member.
All our full members have passed the IAM Advanced Driving Test. Many of them take further training in order to become Observers and be able to help others who wish to raise their driving skills to a level where they can pass the test too.
When is the next course?
How much does it cost?
The current cost of a course, including course materials and the Advanced Driving Test is £139*. This can be purchased online from the IAM.
What does the course cover?
The course covers the contents of the IAM's book 'How to be a better driver - Advanced Driving, the essential guide'. This syllabus covers everything that drivers need to know in order to prepare for the IAM's Advanced Driving Test. The book is included in the price of the course.
Who is eligible?
You can enrol on the course if you hold a full license and have a roadworthy car with insurance and MOT if applicable.
How do I enrol on a course?
1. Contact us and we will send you the information to allow you to join
2. Return the application and payment to us and we will allocate a place to you on the next available course
If you want to speak to someone before committing to buy the course, or check course place availability first, then please feel free to contact us.
DO NOT just buy the skill for life package and then turn up on the first night of the next course and expect to be able to enrol!
How long is the course?
The course programme is scheduled over 12 weeks. As each driver is an individual some people take less than 12 weeks to prepare and so make much longer. It all depends on your experience and abilities. If you are committed to taking the test, and you are continuing to develop your skills, we can support you if it takes you longer than 12 weeks.
Where is the course held?
The course classroom sessions are held on Westfield Road in Wakefield. The on-the-road sessions will vary by negotiation. The skill check drives will start from Halfords in Pontefract.
Will it help to reduce my insurance premium?
There is an insurance scheme especially for IAM members called IAM Surety which can produce some good prices. We cannot guarantee that you won't get a lower quote elsehwhere, but the scheme is producing some good results for members.
What if I've only just passed my 'L' test?
There is a minimum time between passing your 'L' test and being able to take the Advanced Driving Test, but by the time you have undertaken our course then that time will, almost certainly, have passed.
What is I have penalty points on my license?
It all depends upon how many points you have. The IAM has a rule about how many points you can have when taking the test. It is mainly to safeguard the reputation of the IAM. We don't want members getting a few more points, for a minor offence, and having their license revoked through 'toppping-up'. However many points you have, you will still be able to start your preparation for the test.
If you have too many points to be able to take the test now then we can begin preparation. Hopefully your improving attitude, knowledge and skills will mean that you don't get any more points and when the ones that you have begin to reduce you will be able to take the test.
Penalty points are not an obstacle for most people who want to take the test, so contact us even if you have points and we can advise about it.
I am already an associate, though IAM Fleet. How can I enrol on your course?
To enrol on our course you need to purchase the IAM 'Skill for Life' programme. If you have become an associate through IAM Fleet training then you will receive a discount on the 'Skill for Life'. You can contact IAM Head Office (
www.iam.org.uk), giving your details, and they will send you the application form, or contact us with the info and we will do it for you. The current cost is £81* (July 2008).
I am already a full member in a non-car category, how can I take your car course?
As a full member you can join the group for £10. You can then apply for the IAM car test and just pay the IAM test fee. We do not charge for guidance and so one of our observers will help you to prepare for the test.
What if I'm not sure about the course, can I try before I buy?
At our discretion, we may offer a free assessment drive, in your car, with one of our observers. You must hold a full driving license and be in possession of excise license, insurance and MOT where applicable. This can usually arranged, by appointment, on the first Sunday of the month, starting at Halfords and Pontefract
* costs may be subject to change.
