The Institute of Advanced Motorists (IAM) Advanced Driving Test has been
approved by the Driving Standards Agency (DSA).
The move was announced by DSA Chief Executive Gary Austin at the IAM's
National Conference in Birmingham and will mean that - for the first time -
agreed minimum standards for advanced driving tests will be applied throughout
the UK. The IAM is the largest provider of Advanced Driving Tests and has been
conducting them since 1956. It has always received informal support from the UK
Government and Agencies, but this is the first time that IAM advanced driving
tests have been formally recognised as meeting the nationally agreed standard
for advanced driving.
Discussions have been going on for some time between the two organisations.
The breakthrough has been made possible by an agreement between the DSA and IAM
whereby the DSA will monitor the IAM's management and quality control processes.
IAM Chief Executive Christopher Bullock said: "The contribution that
advanced driving makes to road safety is now well established. This agreement
and recognition by the DSA will be welcomed by the wider road safety community.
The DSA and IAM share the firm belief that people should continue developing
their driving and riding skills after they have passed the 'L' test. This
agreement is another step forward in making UK roads safer."
Gary Austin told the IAM National Conference: "The Government has
said in its Road Safety Strategy that there is a wider role for the advanced
driving test as part of developing a safe driving culture. With the IAM's input,
we can now monitor the standards of advanced driving tests as well and ensure
the quality of delivery."
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