13/08/2025
Interesting
About 6 months ago Rospa produced a document for examiners to adhere to when conducting a test. It only seems right, that candidates should also be aware, as there are some subtle changes. This therefore may be especially useful to any tutors/observers. I have only extracted some of the guidance, but if it generates other questions feel free to message me.
• When agreeing a test date with the candidate, it is the examiners responsibility to ask the candidate to bring their licence, insurance and MOT (if appropriate) to show before the test, the information can be provided on the day in electronic or hard copy format.
• (Mainly cars) A lot of modern vehicles are now fitted with driver aids to assist them in their daily drive, whether commuting or long-distance driving using both rural and motorway type roads. Commonly fitted aids include cruise control, adaptive cruise control, speed limiter, lane assist, reversing assistance. The use of cruise control is permitted on the DVLA driving test and will now be permitted on the RoSPA advanced test, as will the use of other vehicle driver aids that may be fitted to the vehicle so long as they do not become a distraction to the driver whereby safety or the flow of the test may be compromised.
• It is acceptable to cross hatch markings that are bounded with broken lines to enable an overtaking manoeuvre provided it is safe and appropriate.
• We are looking for adherence to “Roadcraft” principles of cornering. 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, and is equally applicable to cars and motorcycles. If, in your opinion as the examiner, the candidate compromises their own or another road user’s safety, they will fail the test.
• A 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 driver may be required to give a verbal commentary at some point during the drive.
• A Silver Grade 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.
• 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.
