Tutoring
After you join the Group as an Associate Member you will be allocated a Tutor for your journey to becoming an advanced driver or rider.
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RoSPA Advanced Test
Most of our Associates opt to take the Advanced Driving Test or the Advanced Riding Test. This is not a requirement of being a Member of our Group, but is a way of showing to yourself (and others!) that you drive or ride to the standards of an Advanced Driver or Rider.​​​
Advanced Driving and Riding: Our Tutoring
Learning in all walks of life is about developing knowledge, understanding, behaviours, skills, values and attitudes. Learning generally involves reflecting on one’s actions, evaluating the outcomes and thinking critically about one’s own ideas, often facilitated by a Tutor. These processes are crucial to becoming an advanced driver.
After you join our Group as an associate member you will be allocated a Tutor for your journey to becoming an advanced driver. You will meet on a one-to-one basis for drives in your own car at times and places which are mutually convenient. Discussion and analysis about your drive will follow, including a written summary, aspects to concentrate on and a development plan for your next drive. Also possibly some things to practice before the next drive.
All of our volunteer Tutors are friendly and approachable and are experienced drivers who have passed the RoSPA Test at a high standard. They are here to help you on the path to becoming an advanced driver and prepare you for the RoSPA Test.
Our tutoring is based on the police system of car control as detailed in the publication Roadcraft. You will need to purchase a copy of Roadcraft (or subscribe to the online version), together with the latest version of the Highway Code, preferably before your tutoring starts.
At your first tutoring session, your Tutor will explain the process. They will give you route directions as you drive as you would normally but will probably say little else. This will be a friendly and low-key drive and will finish with a discussion (often over some refreshments) about your driving, leading to an agreed plan for your next drive.
Subsequent drives in your own car will help develop the skills, attitudes and attributes of an advanced driver outlined under “What makes a good driver/rider” and described in Roadcraft and on the RoSPA website.
In addition to practical training, many of our monthly meetings and drive/ride-outs incorporate discussion about improving your knowledge and skills, often focussing on a particular aspect of Roadcraft or Motorcycle Roadcraft.
RoSPA Advanced Driving Test - standards​
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The following is taken from the RoSPA website (2023)
What happens when I apply for my Advanced Test?
When you apply for your test the Application Form is dealt with at RoSPA Headquarters in Birmingham. When it has been entered onto the system, the test request is sent to the Regional Senior Examiner who will allocate the test to an Examiner in your area. The Examiner will then make contact with you to arrange a mutually convenient time and location for your test to be conducted. More details at "Taking the Test".
All our Examiners hold a UK Police Advanced Driving qualification and a number of them are also qualified Police Instructors. Many of these people are still serving Police Officers and work shifts, consequently they may have taken time off work to conduct your test. Therefore please only cancel your test in unavoidable circumstances and if it is at the last moment we may not be able to re-arrange it. If you cancel within three days of the test there is a cancellation fee.
When your re-test is due after 3 years, RoSPA will make contact to remind you. You will need to take your test within a reasonable time of the due date in order to keep your membership current. There is no additional charge for re-tests.
The Test
The RoSPA advanced test is monitored and approved by the DVSA and a RoSPA Gold is widely regarded as one of the highest civilian driving standard available. The test is based on the Police Foundation publication ‘Roadcraft, The Police Drivers Handbook’ and the Highway Code. A thorough understanding of both Roadcraft and the Highway Code will be required to pass the test at a high standard.
Before attending the test, ensure that you feel well prepared as this will help you to be more relaxed. The Examiner will do their best to set you at ease but there is no substitute for proper preparation. Bring your driving licence, insurance and, if required, vehicle test certificate (MoT) with you. Ensure that your vehicle is safe and legal and that your windows are clean. You may be asked to talk through information about your car and pre-drive checks, conduct an eyesight test by reading a number plate at 20m, and to carry out a moving brake test. Remember if you wear spectacles or contact lenses to drive you must wear them during the test. All this will be explained to you by your tutor; you will have plenty of opportunity to practice!
During the test the Examiner will be looking at how you deal with the situations that present themselves and will be assessing the good, and inevitably not so good, elements. The on road section of the test will generally be between 45 minutes and 1 hour 15 minutes but this can vary depending on road and traffic conditions. The Examiner is likely to ask questions to test your understanding of The Highway Code and Roadcraft and you may also be asked some questions about your vehicle.
Following this the Examiner will discuss the road section of the test with you covering both the good points and those areas that could be improved. The Examiner will then tell you if you have passed the test and if so what grade you have obtained. You will receive a written report from RoSPA.
Some areas the Examiner will consider (this is also a useful check-list during your tutoring)
Steering
This should be smooth and accurate at all times. It is important that the driver is in full control of the steering wheel and in most circumstances the best way to achieve this is with both hands in contact with the wheel. The pull push method described in Roadcraft will help with this. Clutch operation should be smooth and progressive showing good balance with the accelerator to achieve smooth gear changes. However, you should not ‘ride’ the clutch or slip it excessively.
Gears
The manner in which you use the gears can tell a lot about your ability as a driver. The Examiner will look for how you hold the gear lever to assist with positive location of the desired gear, the timing of your gear changes and how you match the engine speed, road speed and the gear to make changes smoothly. If you are driving a vehicle fitted with an automatic gearbox the Examiner will look for how you use, or consider using, the various modes available, manual gear selection or kick down facility as appropriate for the circumstances.
Brakes
The Examiner will expect brake application to be smooth and progressive with the pressure on the pedal being reduced gradually as unwanted speed is lost. Brake application should generally be in one smooth operation for any hazard.
Accelerator
Smooth use of the accelerator together with good acceleration sense can do much to make the drive smooth and fuel efficient. The Examiner will be looking for the smooth application of the appropriate amount of power at the right time for the circumstances.
Mirrors
You cannot make appropriate plans for hazards ahead unless you are fully aware of what is happening behind you. Therefore the Examiner will be looking for correct use of the mirrors. Remember there are times when a shoulder check is required no matter how much you have used your mirrors.
Horn
The consideration of the use of the horn is as important in Advanced Driving as actually using it. The Examiner will be looking to see if you correctly consider the use of the horn, do you move your hand / fingers to cover the horn, and if you do use it, is that use appropriate for the circumstances? Is the use timed correctly, is the length of the horn use correct? Remember the horn is a means of informing other road users of your presence, it is not a form of rebuke.
Visibility
Ensure that all windows and mirrors are clear and allow you the view intended by the vehicle manufacturer. Make full use of demisting facilities and also fresh air flow by opening a window as required, remember that air conditioning systems can also assist in demisting windows and keeping them that way. Any stickers etc should not obstruct your view through the windows and ensure that the area swept by the windscreen wipers is not obstructed.
Moving off and stopping
Whenever you move off or stop you must ensure that it is safe to do so and your actions should be smooth and precise. Remember that when you initially move off this will be the first impression the Examiner has of your driving. Make it a good one. Before moving off do mirror and shoulder checks and signal as appropriate. Similarly when you intend to stop, ensure that you check mirrors etc and signal your intention if appropriate remembering to brake smoothly. If this is the conclusion of your test it is the last impression you give the Examiner, so make it a good one
Use of the System
The RoSPA advanced test is based on Roadcraft and The System of Car Control described therein. The Examiner will be looking to see how well you understand and apply the phases of The System, are they well timed and appropriate, do you go back to an appropriate earlier phase if circumstances change on the approach to a hazard? Do you consistently take, use and give information throughout your application of The System? To achieve a Gold or Silver grade you will have to apply The System to a consistently high standard throughout the test
Positioning
If you are to take in all the information that is available at any time then you need to position your vehicle appropriately. This applies equally to roads subject to lower speed restrictions (30, 40 and 50) as it does to roads subject to the national speed limit. Consider on the approach to a hazard whether your position provides you with the best view whilst retaining appropriate safety margins? Remember that you can assist other road users by making sure they can see you as well. However never sacrifice safety for view. If moving to a position to obtain what you consider to be the best view would place you in actual or potential danger, then do not do it!
Cornering
You must always be able to stop on your own side of the road in the distance you can see to be clear. The Examiner will look at the line you take on the approach and through the corner, did it give you the best view with appropriate safety margins, was your speed of approach correct and were you in the right gear? You will be expected to control the vehicle smoothly and accurately maintaining vehicle stability through correct use of the controls and good observation and planning. The practice of crossing the centre of the road to straighten a series of bends is one that causes significant discussion. If the circumstances are appropriate it can contribute to safety, stability and progress. This is however an action that requires a high level of skill, observation and planning to execute correctly. Whilst there are positives the potential for coming into conflict with, or causing confusion to, other road users can be significant and must always be taken into consideration. If in the opinion of the Examiner, the candidate causes their own or another road user’s safety to be compromised, they will fail the test. You must also ensure that crossing any road markings at any time does not compromise safety or stability.
Signals
Signals are the primary way you give information to other road users about your intentions. They must be given correctly and at the right time so as to avoid confusion. Give them only when they will benefit another road user and remember they indicate your intention, not what you are already doing. Remember giving a signal does not give you the right to conduct the manoeuvre.
Reaction to road signs, markings and hazards
As an advanced driver you need to be able to recognise and react to road signs, markings and hazards in good time. In this way you give yourself time to react and form a driving plan. The Examiner will be looking for evidence of this in the timing and manner of response to the various signs and hazards that you come across.
Reversing
You may be asked to carry out a reversing manoeuvre. You will be expected to make all necessary checks to ensure that it is safe to reverse, remember that aids, reversing sensors and cameras etc are just that, an aid. There is no substitute for proper all round observation including listening, consider lowering a window. Stopping the vehicle during the manoeuvre to realign it may be acceptable depending on the circumstances.
Progress / restraint / consideration
Advanced drivers demonstrate an ability to drive at a speed within the legal limit that is safe for the situation. The Examiner will be looking for you to drive in a manner that is safe, smooth, systematic and making progress where it is appropriate whilst also showing consideration for others. It is however, possible to be too considerate and thereby adversely affect your own opportunities to make progress during the test. In order to achieve the correct balance it is vital that you concentrate fully at all times.
Overtaking
An advanced grade can be obtained without an overtake being made on the test, however if the opportunity is there the Examiner will be looking at how you deal with it. All overtaking manoeuvres must be well planned, carried out safely and within the speed limit. There is no exemption in law for exceeding the speed limit to complete an overtake!.
Speed
Advanced driving is not all about speed. Having said that you will be expected to demonstrate your ability to control your vehicle at speeds up to the legal limit where it is appropriate to do so. Be aware that a driving plan that requires you to exceed the legal limit to complete a manoeuvre safely is not acceptable. Likewise if you consistently exceed the speed limit the Examiner may stop the test and you will fail.
Vehicle sympathy
Respect your vehicle and do not ask too much of it. Always drive within the capabilities of the vehicle you are in whilst not being afraid to allow it to give you its optimum performance. There is a difference between driving a vehicle positively and progressively and ‘thrashing’ it.
Concentration
Concentration is a prerequisite of advanced driving and distractions are an ever present element with which you must deal whilst displaying a calm controlled approach to your driving. As part of this the Examiner may ask you questions relating to the conditions encountered.
Observations
One of the skills of an advanced driver is the ability to see hazards and situations developing earlier than lesser skilled drivers. This is achieved by constantly scanning all around taking in the near, middle and distant views as well as to the rear. Smell and sound can also play a significant part in this. In this way the advanced driver has more time to plan and deal with situations and can also anticipate the actions of other road users, almost appearing to do so automatically. Like positioning mentioned earlier, this skill is just as relevant in lower speed limits as it is on the open road. The Examiner will be looking to see how and when you react to changes in conditions.
Deportment and temperament
Ensure that your seating position is comfortable and allows you easy access to all the vehicle controls. If you are comfortable you will be more able to demonstrate a calm controlled and confident manner throughout the test. The Examiner will anticipate you being nervous and will make some allowances for this so try not to let nerves affect your performance. [Can be useful to mention anything specific to you, for example diabetes, arthritis – Ed]
Judging distance
The Examiner will look to see what you consider a safe following distance and also how you position when looking to overtake another vehicle. How you use acceleration sense to maintain a safe following position and also your appreciation of the speed and distance of approaching vehicles.
Commentary
You may be asked to give a commentary during your test. The purpose of this is to demonstrate to the Examiner your use of The System, your observations, planning and decision making. You should describe what you see, your assessment and proposed driving plan. If you do not wish to give a commentary then the Examiner may ask questions to assist them assess your level of observations and awareness.
Motorways and dual carriageways
When intending to join these roads from a slip road with more than one lane you should generally, dependent on traffic conditions, use the one which gives you the best view of the main carriageway. Use this view and acceleration sense to give you the correct speed to merge with the traffic on that carriageway smoothly and safely. On the carriageway remember that speeds are generally higher than other roads and allow an appropriate following distance. When planning to leave the motorway allow time to get into lane 1 without having to ‘cut across’ other vehicles. When joining or leaving such roads consider a signal as required to inform other road users of your intentions.
Theory questions
Following the on road element of the test the Examiner will ask you some questions to check your knowledge of Roadcraft and The Highway Code. You may also be asked some questions relating to your vehicle. [also you may be asked questions whilst you are driving and it is safe to talk – Ed]
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Test Grades
Gold
Gold is only awarded to the driver who shows a consistently high standard of driving throughout the test. The driver will demonstrate a confidence in their ability together with a thorough understanding of the principles contained in Roadcraft and how to apply those principles to situations that occur during the test. They will drive in a calm controlled manner, without fuss or flourish. It is important to realise that this is the result of a conscious decision making process and not just an automatic application of a set of ‘rules’. The Gold standard driver will consistently demonstrate good observations together with consideration for, and sound assessment of, other road users and situations, being courteous yet taking control as appropriate. In obtaining this grade the candidate will have consistently made safe, legal, smooth, planned progress within the vehicle’s capabilities whilst giving passengers and other road users the impression of being completely calm and relaxed. To assist with demonstrating this the driver may be required to give a verbal commentary at some point during the drive.
Silver
Silver is awarded to candidates who display a skill level well above the average. They will show a thorough understanding of the principles contained in Roadcraft and how to apply those principles to situations that occur during the test. The driver will make safe systematic progress however not demonstrating the consistency, final polish and smoothness of the Gold grade candidate. The System will still be applied in a thoughtful and considered manner for all situations and it must be stressed that this is a very high standard and those who obtain a Silver are to be congratulated.
Bronze
A Bronze grade will be awarded to those candidates who show that they have an understanding of, and the ability to apply, the principles of advanced driving demonstrating a good level of observations and anticipation, but not doing so consistently throughout the test. They will however drive in a safe and legal manner, to a standard which is significantly above that required to pass the appropriate DVSA test.
Fail
Candidates who do not reach the Bronze standard will fail the test. Reasons for a fail could include but are not limited to:
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the candidate’s overall standard is just not up to the requirements
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a dangerous manoeuvre
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repeatedly exceeding speed limits or a significant infringement of a speed limit (either signed or applicable to the category of vehicle they are using)
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violation of Road Traffic Law (contravening solid white lines, stop lines, red traffic lights, speed limits etc), or the rules in the Highway Code.
RoSPA Advanced Riding Test - Standards
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The following is taken from the RoSPA website (2023)
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What happens when I apply for my Advanced Test?
When you apply for your test the Application Form is dealt with at RoSPA Headquarters in Birmingham. When it has been entered onto the system the test request is sent to a Regional Senior Examiner who will allocate the test to an Examiner in your area. The Examiner will then make contact with you to arrange a mutually convenient time and location for your test to be conducted. All our Examiners hold a UK Police Advanced Riding qualification and a number of them are also qualified Police Instructors. Many of these people are still serving Police Officers and work shifts, consequently they may have taken time off work to conduct your test. Therefore please only cancel your test in unavoidable circumstances and if it is at the last moment we may not be able to re-arrange it. If you cancel within three days of the test there is a cancellation fee. More details at "Taking the Test".
The Test
The RoSPA advanced motorcycle test is monitored and approved by the DVSA and a RoSPA Gold is widely regarded as the highest civilian riding standard available. The test is based on the Police Foundation publication ‘Roadcraft The Police Riders Handbook’ and the Highway Code. A thorough understanding of both Roadcraft and the Highway Code will be required to pass the test at a high standard. Before attending for the test ensure that you feel well prepared as this will help you to be more relaxed, the Examiner will do their best to set you at ease but there is no substitute for proper preparation. Bring your riding licence, insurance and, if required, vehicle test certificate with you, ensure that your visor or goggles are clean and your bike is safe and legal. You may be asked to conduct or talk through the pre-ride checks for both yourself and your bike, carryout an eyesight test by reading a number plate, and to carry out a moving brake test. This brake test only needs to be firm enough to confirm to the Examiner that the brakes are working, it is not an emergency stop! Remember if you wear spectacles or contact lenses to drive you must wear them during the test.
The Examiner may ask you if you want to use a bike-to-bike radio system for communication of directions. This is something that is by mutual consent, however not all Examiners use these systems. During the test the Examiner will be looking at how you deal with the situations that present themselves and assessing the good, and inevitably not so good, elements. The on-road section of the test will generally be between 45 minutes and 1 hour 15 minutes but this can vary depending on road and traffic conditions. The Examiner will then ask questions to test your understanding of The Highway Code and Roadcraft and you may also be asked some questions about your bike. Following this the Examiner will discuss the road section of the test with you covering both the good points and those areas that could be improved. The Examiner will then tell you if you have passed the test and if so what grade you have obtained
Some areas the Examiner will consider
Steering and balance
Changes in direction should be smooth and controlled. The rider must be able to balance the machine by taking account of the various forces acting upon it and variations in road surface and in weather conditions.
Clutch and gears
Clutch operation should be smooth and progressive showing good balance with the throttle to achieve smooth gear changes. Unnecessary slipping of the clutch should be avoided. The manner in which you use the gears can tell a lot about your ability as a rider. The Examiner will be looking at the timing and smoothness of your gear changes.
Brakes
The Examiner will expect brake application to be smooth and progressive with the pressure being reduced gradually as unwanted speed is lost. The balance between front and rear brakes should be varied according to the condition of the road surface and the speed of the motorcycle. If you are riding a machine with linked brakes it is important to understand how the brake pressure is distributed between the front and rear brakes and use the hand and foot brake as appropriate.
Throttle
Smooth use of the throttle together with good acceleration sense, which is one of the hallmarks of an advanced rider, can do much to make the ride smooth and fuel efficient. The Examiner will be looking for the smooth application of the appropriate amount of power at the right time for the circumstances.
Mirrors / rear observation
You cannot make appropriate plans for hazards ahead unless you are fully aware of what is happening behind you. Therefore the Examiner will be looking for correct use of the mirrors. Remember there are times when a shoulder check is required no matter how much you have used your mirrors.
Horn
The consideration of the use of the horn is as important in Advanced riding as actually using it. The Examiner will be looking to see if you correctly consider the use of the horn, do you cover the horn button, and if you do use the horn is that use appropriate for the circumstances. Is it timed correctly, is the length of use appropriate? Remember the horn is a means of informing other road users of your presence, it is not a form of rebuke.
Visibility
Ensure that your visor or goggles and any fairing screens are clear at the start of the test. You may want to consider using an anti mist spray or device to help prevent your visor or goggles misting up during the test. Also ensure that all light lenses are clean.
Moving off and stopping
Whenever you move off or stop you must ensure that it is safe to do so and your actions should be smooth and precise. Remember that when you initially move off this will be the first impression the Examiner has of your riding. Make it a good one. Before moving off do mirror and shoulder checks and signal as appropriate. Similarly when you intend to stop, ensure that you check mirrors etc and signal your intention if appropriate and remember to brake smoothly. If this is the conclusion of your test it is the last impression you give the Examiner, so make it a good one.
Use of the System
The RoSPA advanced test is based on Roadcraft and The System of Motorcycle Control described therein. The Examiner will be looking to see how well you understand and apply the phases of The System, are they well timed and appropriate, do you go back to an appropriate earlier phase if circumstances change on the approach to a hazard? Do you consistently take, use and give information throughout your application of The System? To achieve a Gold or Silver grade you will have to apply The System to a consistently high standard throughout the test
Positioning
If you are to take in all the information that is available at any time then you need to position your motorcycle appropriately. This applies equally to roads subject to lower speed restrictions (30, 40 and 50) as it does to roads subject to the national speed limit. Consider on the approach to a hazard whether your position provides you with the best view whilst retaining appropriate safety margins? Remember that you can assist other road users by making sure they can see you. However never sacrifice safety for view. If moving to a position to obtain what you consider to be the best view would place you in actual or potential danger, then do not do it! On a motorcycle you have much more freedom to move on the road than a car due to the obvious fact of the smaller size. Ensure that you do not confuse other road users by your position or movements, whilst using this freedom to your advantage.
Cornering
You must always be able to stop on your own side of the road in the distance you can see to be clear. The Examiner will look at the line you take on the approach and through the corner, if it gave you the best view with appropriate safety margins, was your speed of approach correct and were you in the right gear? Did you control the bike smoothly and accurately maintaining stability through correct use of the throttle and gears? The practice of crossing the centre of the road to straighten a series of open bends is one that causes significant discussion. If the circumstances are appropriate it can contribute to safety, stability and progress. This is however an action that requires a high level of skill, observation and planning to execute correctly. Whilst there are positives the potential for coming into conflict with, or causing confusion to other road users can be significant and must always be taken into consideration. If in the opinion of the Examiner, the candidate causes their own or another road users safety to be compromised, they will fail the test. You must also ensure that crossing any road markings at any time does not compromise safety or stability.
Signals
Signals are the primary way you give information to other road users about your intentions. They must be given correctly and at the right time so as to avoid confusion. Give them only when they will benefit another road user and remember they indicate your intention, not what you are already doing. Remember that on a bike your indicators may be smaller and less conspicuous than on a car, an arm signal may be advantageous in some circumstances. Also just because you have signalled your intention, you do not have the right to carry it out.
Reaction to road signs, markings and hazards
As an advanced rider you need to be able to recognise and react to road signs, markings and hazards in good time. In this way you give yourself time to react and form a riding plan. The Examiner will be looking for evidence of this in the timing and manner of response to the various signs and hazards that you come across.
Low speed riding
The Examiner will be looking for good balance and smooth use of the controls enabling you to progress smoothly at low speed.
Progress / restraint / consideration
Advanced riders demonstrate an ability to ride at a speed within the legal limit that is safe for the situation. The Examiner will be looking for you to ride in a manner that is safe, smooth and systematic whilst making progress where it is appropriate and also showing consideration for others. It is however possible to be too considerate and thereby adversely affect your own opportunities to make progress during the test. In order to achieve the correct balance it is vital that you concentrate fully at all times.
Overtaking
An advanced grade can be obtained without an overtake being made on the test, however if the opportunity is there the Examiner will be looking at how you deal with it. All overtaking manoeuvres must be well planned, carried out safely and within the speed limit. There is no exemption in law for exceeding the speed limit to complete an overtake!
Speed
Advanced riding is not all about speed, it is essential that you continually assess the hazards around you and adjust your speed accordingly. Having said that you will be expected to demonstrate your ability to control your motorcycle at speeds up to the legal limit where it is appropriate to do so. Be aware that a riding plan that requires you to exceed the legal limit to complete a manoeuvre safely is not acceptable. Likewise if you consistently exceed the speed limit the Examiner may stop the test and you will fail.
Machine sympathy
Respect your motorcycle and do not ask too much of it. Always ride within the capabilities of the motorcycle you are riding whilst not being afraid to allow it to give you its optimum performance. There is a difference between riding a bike positively and progressively and ‘thrashing’ it.
Concentration
Concentration is a prerequisite of advanced riding and distractions are an ever present element with which you must deal whilst displaying a calm controlled approach to your riding.
Observations
One of the skills of an advanced rider is the ability to see hazards and situations developing earlier than lesser skilled riders. This is achieved by constantly scanning all around taking in the near, middle and distant views as well as to the rear. Use your higher seating position on the bike to obtain the best all round view that you can. Smell and sound can also play a significant part in this. In this way the advanced rider has more time to plan and deal with situations and can also anticipate the actions of other road users, almost appearing to do so automatically. Like positioning mentioned earlier this skill is just as relevant in lower speed limits as it is on the open road. The Examiner will be looking to see how and when you react to changes in conditions and hazards.
Deportment / temperament
Ensure that your riding position is comfortable and allows you easy access to all of your bike’s controls. If you are comfortable you will be more able to demonstrate a calm controlled and confident manner throughout the test. Lying flat on the fuel tank or hanging off the seat in corners should not be necessary for the road rider. Quiet efficiency is the hallmark of an advanced rider. The Examiner will anticipate you being nervous and will make some allowances for this so try not to let nerves affect your performance.
Judging distance
The Examiner will look to see what you consider a safe following distance. How you use acceleration sense to maintain a safe following position and also your appreciation of the speed and distance of approaching vehicles.
Motorways and dual carriageways
When intending to join these roads from a slip road with more than one lane you should generally, dependent on traffic conditions, use the one which gives you the best view of the main carriageway. Use this view and acceleration sense to give you the correct speed to merge with the traffic on that carriageway smoothly and safely. On the carriageway remember that speeds are generally higher than other roads and allow an appropriate following distance. When planning to leave the motorway allow time to get into lane 1 without having to ‘cut across’ other vehicles. When joining or leaving such roads consider a signal as required to inform other road users of your intentions.
Theory questions
Following the on road element of the test the Examiner will ask you some questions to check your knowledge of Roadcraft and The Highway Code. You may also be asked some questions relating to your motorcycle.
How does the Examiner decide my grade?
Gold
Gold is only awarded to the rider who shows a consistently high standard of riding throughout the test. The rider will demonstrate a confidence in their ability together with a thorough understanding of the principles contained in Motorcycle Roadcraft and how to apply those principles to situations that occur during the test. They will ride in a calm controlled manner, without fuss or flourish. It is important to realise that this is the result of a conscious decision making process and not just an automatic application of a set of ‘rules’. The Gold standard rider will consistently demonstrate good observations together with consideration for, and sound assessment of, other road users and situations, being courteous yet taking control as appropriate. In obtaining this grade the candidate will have consistently made safe, legal, smooth, planned progress within the motorcycle’s capabilities whilst giving the examiner and other road users the impression of being completely calm and relaxed.
Silver
Silver is awarded to candidates who display a skill level well above the average. They will show a thorough understanding of the principles contained in Roadcraft and how to apply those principles to situations that occur during the test. The rider will make safe systematic progress however not demonstrating the consistency, final polish and smoothness of the Gold grade candidate. The System will still be applied in a thoughtful and considered manner for all situations and it must be stressed that this is a very high standard and those who obtain a Silver are to be congratulated.
Bronze
A Bronze grade will be awarded to those candidates who show that they have an understanding of, and the ability to apply, the principles of advanced riding demonstrating a good level of observations and anticipation, but not doing so consistently throughout the test. They will however drive in a safe and legal manner, to a standard which is significantly above that required to pass the appropriate DVSA test.
Fail
Candidates who do not reach the Bronze standard will fail the test. Reasons for a fail could include but are not limited to:
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The candidate’s overall standard is just not up to the requirements
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A dangerous manoeuvre
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Repeatedly exceeding speed limits or a significant infringement of a speed limit
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Violation of Road Traffic Law (contravening solid white lines, stop lines, red traffic lights, speed limits etc), or the rules in the Highway Code.
A minor infringement for which the candidate can give good reason should not generally result in a failure but could contribute to a lower grade being awarded. Should a candidate fail the Examiner will offer advice on the areas that require improvement and encourage the candidate to obtain further guidance from a local RoADAR group. The candidate can apply to take the test again as soon as they wish, however we would advise taking some additional training before doing so.
An Examiner’s decision on the grade achieved is final.
If a candidate achieves a Bronze or Silver pass they may apply to take a retest (for which a fee is payable) before the three year retest becomes due. If you do wish to improve your standard we would strongly recommend that you join a local group where you will meet like minded people. In any case when your three year re-test is due we will make contact to remind you. You will need to take your test within a reasonable time of the due date in order to keep your membership current.
Taking the Advanced Driving or Riding Test
Taking the RoSPA Advanced Test usually follows from the tutoring given by your Tutors. It is the way that you can show you have reached the high standards of an advanced driver or rider. The Test will take place using your own vehicle, which must be fully insured and legally roadworthy.
The Test is unique as it is graded Bronze, Silver or Gold. A RoSPA Gold is regarded as one of the highest recognised civilian driving standard, the holder will be a master of his or her ‘art’. Areas that the examiner will consider are detailed in the RoSPA test guidelines for cars and for motorcycles and are summarised in the relevant tabs above.
The test usually lasts between about 1 to 1.5 hours, sometimes a bit longer. It is taken with a RoSPA Examiner, all of whom are serving or retired police officers.
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As of June 2025, the cost of taking the Advanced Test is £77.00 (including VAT).
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Once you and your tutor feel you are ready, you will complete your application via the RoSPA Advanced Drivers and Riders Website, please click HERE and choose the test form applicable to you.
Once your test has been booked and an examiner allocated to you, the examiner will call or email you to arrange a date and time to meet-up. On the day, the examiner will explain what they are looking for from your drive or ride: safe, legal, systematic, and smooth. (This will be what you have been practicing with your Tutor).
You will explain about the type and controls of your car/motorcycle as well as any pre drive/ride checks you have done or will do. Your aim over the Test is to drive or ride to the best and highest standard you can, demonstrating the skills and knowledge you have learnt throughout your tutoring.
At some point the examiner will ask you some highway code questions, and/or a few based around information within ROADCRAFT or MOTORCYCLE ROADCRAFT.
Once the drive/ride and questions are finished, the examiner will debrief you and explain the result. He/she may also explain areas for improvement and how you can achieve these.
The examiner sends his/her report to RoSPA HQ. If you have been successful, they will send out your certificate and report.
There is a retest every three years – one of the benefits of the RoSPA system over some other advanced driving/riding organisations. The re-test fee is included in your yearly subscription costs.
For someone's reflection on taking the Advanced Driving Test, please see the first entry in the Articles section.