Advanced Driver Course - Observer’s handbook - Observer Pack Overview - Course test and marking updates

Sep 18, 2026

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Advanced Driver Course Observer’s handbook outlines the expectations for IAM RoadSmart Observers supporting advanced drivers through observation, anticipation, planning (OAP), and vehicle operation to deliver safe, smooth, efficient, and comfortable drives. It explains how modern driving aids like satellite navigation, reversing cameras, and auto-park systems should be used, and why Observers’ consistent standards matter for course delivery. The handbook details what can be tested in the observer-led test, describes changes to the test sheet, reduces marking ratings, and adjusts tested areas and competencies.

LanguageEnglish

CategoryTechnology

FormatPDF

Pages98

Reading Time4 h 7 min

AccessFree to download

Observer’s handbook overview

The Observer’s role and course purpose

Observer pack: course content and knowledge reviews

What can be tested

Test sheet changes and marking ratings

Competencies overview (IPSGA and Human Factors)

Core driving areas being assessed

Advanced Driver Course Observer’s handbook The bigger picture Advanced drivers should be able to drive in a safe smooth and efficient manner at all times. Through good observation, sensible anticipation and accurate planning, (OAP) combined with sound operation of their vehicle’s controls, they should deliver a comfortable, progressive drive for their passengers while maintaining safety. Modern driving aids such as satellite navigation systems, reversing cameras and auto park systems, are becoming more commonplace; used correctly, they can complement the skills of an advanced driver and enhance the overall experience. Appropriate use of such technology should therefore be encouraged. Combining well developed skills and understanding with developments in technology should make you into a ‘thinking driver’ and create a safer, more enjoyable driving experience. IAM RoadSmart Skill for Life course relies on you Thank you for making it such a success. As an IAM RoadSmart Observer, you not only play an important role in the confidence and ultimate success of the drivers you observe; you’re also vital to helping IAM RoadSmart achieve its objective of making the UK’s roads a safer place for everyone. Thank you for sharing your skills and giving your time. We really do appreciate it. At IAM RoadSmart, we recognise that we each have our own approach to training and that we must also be responsive to the needs of the individual Associates we observe. To ensure a level of consistency, it is therefore essential to have an agreed set of standards covering every aspect of the advanced driving course. And that’s what this document comprises. This is the complete course for you to refer to, we hope you find it useful. In compiling this document, we have consulted with a number of Groups and individual Observers and taken their comments on board. However, as it will be reviewed periodically, you are welcome to send any suggestions to us at [submissions@IAM.org.uk](submissions@IAM.org.uk)[ ](submissions@IAM.org.uk)[Thank you once again.](Thank you once again.) What has changed for you as an Observer in relation to the course content and the test? What have we sent you? Your pack contains the course content written for the Observer. It includes a number of hintsand tips sheets that may assist you to put across relevant points related to the competencies contained within the course. There are also some ancillary hand-outs and knowledge reviews (quizzes) for the Associate to complete in order to check their understanding of the material. The Associate will receive the course content and the handouts. You give out the knowledge reviews as appropriate What can be tested? If it is in the course content, it can be tested. The course material mentions pre-drive checks, cockpit drills, running brake checks and in car technology. It follows that should they chose todo so, the Examiner may ask questions on any of these subjects during the test. The Associate would have been taken through these subjects with you during their observed drives What is different? The biggest change is probably in the test sheet. We have reduced the marking guide from 5 to 3 ratings 3 = Requires Development (fails to consistently demonstrate the competency) 2 = Satisfactory (Consistently demonstrates the competency) 1 = Commended (Consistently demonstrates the competency to a high standard with confidence; showing sound understanding of the interaction between this and other competencies) F1rst Defined as before with three 2’s allowed, must do a commentary (spoken thoughts) and no 3’s allowed We have reduced the number of areas being tested from 27 to 23 by combining some of them • Legality & Safety combined • Eco driving/riding & Vehicle Sympathy combined • Hazard Management & Planning combined • Human Factors added to Concentration • Restraint and Progress combined We’ve added a section on the rear of the test form that g

FAQs

What does the course emphasize for advanced drivers?

Advanced drivers are expected to drive safely, smoothly, and efficiently using good observation, sensible anticipation, accurate planning (OAP), and sound vehicle operation to keep passengers comfortable while maintaining safety.

What technology is mentioned as part of advanced driving?

Satellite navigation, reversing cameras, and auto-park systems are highlighted as increasingly common aids. They should be used correctly to complement advanced skills and improve the overall driving experience.

What major changes were made to the test and marking guide?

The marking guide was reduced from 5 to 3 ratings, and the number of areas tested was reduced from 27 to 23 by combining related areas. The handbook also adds explanations on the rear of the test form and adjusts emphasis toward outputs in certain areas.

Sep 18, 2026

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