I agree totally, the IAM test is well worth it for exactly the same reason as above.
I took the test some 20 years ago and have since become an examiner for them as well.
What you need to do is look up your local group, from
here. I am guessing one of the two groups that are based near Glasgow would be your best bet.
You need to contact them and get yourself along to one of their group meetings. Let them know who you are and that you would like to join etc.
Then they will partner you up with one of their volunteer group observers who will take you out in your own car for a number sessions usually between 1 and 2 hours in length. During these sessions he/she will let you know how you are doing and point out areas that may need improvement.
Once they think you are ready to have the test with an independent examiner they will organise the test.
In some groups you often get the chance to drive alongside different volunteer group observers, as opposed to always having the same one, but that does vary between groups, personally if you get the chance, do it, because I believe it is a better system.
For your initial fee you get
A copy of the IAM's Advanced Driving Manual.
Your initial assessment.
Associate membership of one of the many local IAM Groups.
A place on one of their courses to prepare for the IAM Test.
Entry to the IAM Advanced Driving Test.
IAM Associate status with an automatic upgrade to IAM Membership on passing the Advanced Test within one year.
Just to let you know roughly what you maybe letting yourself in for here is a guide to the test itself.
The IAM Advanced Driving Test lasts for about 90 minutes and will usually cover between 30 and 40 miles along all types of road (town driving, motorways (if available) or dual carriageways, and even country lanes).
Your Examiner will hold a Police Advanced Driving certificate (either serving or ex Police Class 1) and will have extensive experience from working within the Traffic sections of the Police Force.
The IAM Test gives a thorough workout of driving ability, allowing the candidate to alter their drive according to the conditions and environment of the road. The types of road vary from quiet country roads, motorways to busy town centres. In each case there are hazards and situations that need to be avoided and taken care of using the methods and techniques that advanced driving gives. There may be situations where the candidate can show flair and panache (or what we term as Sparkle) on an open country road where optimum progress can be gained at maximum safety, using optimum road positioning and excellent observation. All this combines to give a brisk smooth drive, at the legal limit on the open road. In other situations, the candidate will need to show restraint and composure to deal with tricky hazards that may become apparent throughout the drive. Such as in a town centre situation, where observation is used to pick out hazards in situations that are constantly changing. The main objective is that the candidate has to perform well in all situations rather than excel in one.
Many people often comment on the Test after taking it and more often than not, the comments revolve around how much they enjoyed the drive. On Test the candidate gets to "show off" the new skills that they have been tuning for the weeks during their course. The Advanced Driving Test IS NOT EASY but is within the reach of most motorists with the right guidance.
All this only costs £85 (£75 if under 25 years old) and is possibly one of the best investments in your driving skills you could ever make.
If you do get the chance to join the annual subscription is currentyly £18, plus whatever the local group membership costs are, these can vary somewhat.
