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The Group operates a “Skill for Life” programme which costs £204 for cars and £219 for bikes (but subject to review periodically) and includes the following:
From time to time limited promotions may be available, we’ll let you know about any current ones when you enquire. At times we are able to offer discounts for new or inexperienced drivers and riders but we can only give these discounts whilst we have funds, see below for more information.
You can sign up for a “Skill For Life” car course right now, by contacting the Secretary to find out more (07707 035518)
Broadly similar arrangements apply for guidance in preparation for the Advanced Motorcycling Test although the costs are slightly different – have a look at the motorcycle page for more details.
No person who has a conviction pending, including those related to Fixed Penalty Notices can take the test until any potential case has been completed.
After passing the test you automatically become a full member of both the IAM and the Dumfries Group. You will be invited to maintain your membership of the IAM and Dumfries Group annually. For 2025 the annual costs are:
Fees are subject to periodic review.
Drivers who have passed the Advanced Test have a significantly lower accident rate (as much as 50 – 70% better than average) this may allow you to benefit from a range of discounted insurances.
As a member of both organisations you will receive the IAM’s ‘Advanced Driving’ magazine and the Dumfries Group’s magazine ‘Advance’, each published three times a year. These publications cover a variety of driving and riding topics of national and local interest. Additionally membership gives you access to national and local discount schemes.
Gradually as the weeks have passed I have subconsciously adopted the techniques, which come from being an advanced driver. Some of these techniques I have to admit I have not enjoyed or seen the necessity in adopting, for instance the continual commentary which accompanies a drive. I have struggled with this technique as my Observer will testify and came home regularly to complain about it, but in this case I seem to be wrong. I now see the benefits of commentating, as it helps keep your concentration whilst driving, which is of course essential. It may take time as I am sure you all understand since it is a difficult technique to pick up and adopt easily, but I know it will be beneficial to my driving in the long term.
Another technique essential to being an advanced driver is the planned system of driving, which once understood and memorised becomes an automatic response in dealing with any hazard. This five point system: information, position, speed, gear and acceleration, when applied, come as close as possible to a fool proof system at avoiding hazards. However, yet again I admit this system of driving has not come as naturally or as quickly to me as I had hoped, but I know it is crucial and I will continue to persevere.”
Lucy
