Frequently Asked Questions

What is Advanced Driving?
Advanced Drivers use a systematic approach to negotiating hazards. Using such a system means you pass the hazard in a controlled way without leaving anything to chance.

We use the Police system for driving which consists of five different phases, these are;

• Information - This phase is constant throughout the system as you take in and give out information such as indicators signals and brake lights.
• Position - Your position on the road is vital to passing a hazard safety. This phase also gives out information as you wouldn't position to the left for a right turn - would you?
• Speed - Once you are in position you need the right speed to negotiate a hazard this is usually achieved by braking smoothly and progessively to the appropriate speed.
• Gear - Once you have the required speed you change gear, this is done after braking so you are not braking and changing gear at the same time, you also dont move down the gearbox, the correct gear is the gear that matches the engine revs and road speed.
• Acceleration - The correct amount of acceleration allows you to leave the hazard safely.

What is a hazard?
A hazard is anything which causes you to alter speed or change direction, there are three types of hazards;

• Static Hazards - Such as roundabouts as these are a feature of the road and in itself will not change. Traffic lights are also a static hazard as these may cause you to brake and slow down.
• Moving Hazards - These can be other road users and pedestrians.
• Road and Weather conditions - Wet and muddy roads are conditions which may cause you to drive differently, a pot hole might cause you to change direction. Driving in the dark and in fog are also a hazard as these impede your view of the road.  

Is the commentary compulsory?
The commentary is not compulsory for the IAM's Advanced Driving test although we do encourage you to talk your way through the system when approaching at least two hazards, using a commentary when driving highlights concentration and observation and can also encourage you to look and anticipate other road users actions.