What the Course Entails and Exam Details

This practice guide focuses on the core competencies required to pass the demanding Police Advanced Driving Assessment. It is not a course itself, but a tool for applying the knowledge gained from studying Roadcraft.

The essential syllabus covered by the assessment, and this practice material, includes:

• The System of Car Control (IPSGA): Mastering the five-stage system (Information, Position, Speed, Gear, Acceleration) to approach every hazard safely and efficiently.

• Advanced Observation and Anticipation: Developing a "circle of observation" and anticipating potential hazards much earlier.

• Vehicle Dynamics and Handling: Understanding how driver inputs (steering, braking, acceleration) affect vehicle stability and control.

• Cornering Techniques: Applying the system to navigate corners smoothly and at safe speed.

• Overtaking and Progress: Learning safe and effective methods for making progress on the road.

• Night Driving and Adverse Weather: Adjusting driving techniques for challenging conditions.

• Police Driver Psychology: Managing stress and maintaining focus during high-pressure driving situations.

What to Expect in the Final Exam

The actual Police Advanced Driving Assessment is primarily a rigorous practical driving test, conducted by a qualified Police Driving Instructor or Examiner from within the officer's specific force.

Format:

The exam typically lasts 60 to 90 minutes and involves a varied route, including urban areas, rural roads, and motorways (where applicable). The candidate is expected to give a detailed, spoken commentary throughout the drive, explaining their observations, anticipation of hazards, and how they are applying the System of Car Control to deal with them.

Passing Requirements:

There is no "score" system like a traditional written test. The candidate is assessed on their ability to demonstrate, consistently, a high level of safety, competence, and smooth progress while applying the Roadcraft principles. Passing is based on the examiner's judgment of whether the candidate meets the standard for an Advanced Police Driver. A single serious mistake (e.g., failing to see a major hazard, unsafe maneuver) typically results in a failure.

How to Study and Exam Centers

How to Study:

1. Master the Roadcraft Handbook: This is your definitive resource. You must have a thorough understanding of the principles laid out in the official Roadcraft: The Police Driver’s Handbook.

2. Intensive Force Training: For serving officers, preparation for this exam occurs during an intensive, multi-week training course provided internally by your UK Police Force's specialized driver training unit.

3. Practice with Qualified Instructors: Utilize the coaching from your force instructors during the course. For civilians looking for an introduction to Roadcraft-style driving, groups like IAM RoadSmart or RoSPA offer advanced driving courses based on similar principles.

Exam Centers:

The final practical assessment does not take place at commercial centers like Pearson VUE. It is conducted internally by the Driving Schools of individual UK Police Forces. Candidates will take the exam under the supervision of authorized Police Driving Examiners within their own force.

Job Opportunities from the Course

Passing the Advanced Police Driving Assessment is essential for officers wishing to move into specialized roles within the police service that require high-level driving skills.

This certification is required for, or unlocks career paths into, the following specialized roles:

• Roads Policing Officer (Traffic)

• Armed Response Vehicle (ARV) Officer

• Advanced Driver Trainer/Instructor

• Specialist Operational Support Units