RoSPA South West Group

Grades

"Advanced driving is the ability to control the position and speed of the vehicle safely, systematically and smoothly, using road and traffic conditions to progress unobtrusively with skill and responsibility. This skill requires a positive but courteous attitude and a high standard of driving competence based on concentration, effective all round observation, anticipation, and planning. This must be coordinated with good handling skills. The vehicle should be at the right place on the road at the right time, travelling at the right speed with the correct gear engaged and can always be stopped safely on its own side of the road in the distance that can be seen to be clear.." (DSA RoADA IAM 1997).

It is difficult to lay down precise specifications for the Association's three gradings, as it is very much a matter for the expertise and overall judgement of the examiner. It is important, however, to provide guidelines on how the various grades are determined to ensure consistency, understanding, and above all, confidence in the grading system. The grade decided by the examiner will not be changed although any appeal will be reviewed by the Chief Examiner, who may offer a retest or comment in writing on any points raised. Examiners operate under strict national guidelines to ensure that the Association's very high standards are maintained. The following guidelines about the requirements for each grade are intended to help you understand better the criteria applied when awarding a grade.

GOLD

This grade is recognised as the highest driving award available to the public. It will be awarded only to the polished systematic driver, who displays a complete understanding and appropriate application of the principles outlined in Roadcraft. The candidate will display a confidence and ability throughout the whole test which leads the examiner to consider that, if given the opportunity the candidate has the potential with the basics already in place to do well on a police advanced course. The candidate's performance must be consistent throughout the whole of the test and so any lapses may result in a lower grade. Awards of this grade must therefore be reserved for the very best drivers.

SILVER

This grade will be awarded to drivers who are well above the average. These drivers will produce consistently safe and systematic drives but perhaps without the final polish, flair and smoothness of the Gold driver. They will demonstrate a thorough knowledge of the system of car control. Candidates must be able to drive up to the permitted speed limit where it is safe to do so but vary speed according to circumstances and conditions. It must be emphasised that Silver is an extremely high grade and a commendable achievement.

BRONZE

This grade will be awarded to drivers whose driving performance is significantly above the standard required to pass the 'L' driving test. These drivers will show a basic knowledge of Roadcraft but lack the ability to apply the system consistently throughout the test. The drive should be entirely safe, observing traffic signs, responding correctly to hazards and should display advanced driving techniques.

FAIL

Candidates who fall below the minimum pass will be classified as 'fail'.
Drivers will fail if they display potentially dangerous faults, persistently infringe speed limits, commit violations of Road Traffic Law or the rules contained in The Highway Code. If the candidate fails to reach the pass standard, the examiner will offer advice on improvement and encourage further training or guidance from a local group.

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What about minor infringements?

Occasional minor infringements with a perceived acceptable reason should not result in failure on their own, but may be a reason for a lower grade. As a general rule, the examiner will consider whether the candidate is a driver worthy of displaying the badge of an advanced driver, i.e. someone who will consistently drive according to the principles of Roadcraft.

What happens if I fail?

If you fail your initial test you may take a free retest between three and six months later. During this time we hope that you will have received assistance to improve your driving. If you wish to take a retest before your free test is due you will be expected to pay a fee of £20.00. Examiners' decisions on test results are final. If you wish to improve your standard we do suggest that you join our local group. You will then be in touch with other members who will advise and perhaps offer tuition.

What about my retest?

When your retest is due RoSPA HQ will send you a reminder and booking form. You must take your retest within a reasonable time of the due date in order to keep your membership.

We offer you our good wishes for a successful test.