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New Funding for 2025 from Gloucestershire Fire and Rescue Service providing a further 20 places in the 2025/26 Financial year.

Young Drivers Programme - Full Refunds for the Advanced Driving Course

For 2025/26, new Funding has been agreed with Gloucestershire Fire and Rescue Service to provide funded Advanced Driver courses for young drivers.  The course normally costs £204.00. (w.e.f. 01 Apr 2025).

The course consists of an "Introduction to Advanced Driving Seminar" held on a Saturday morning and a number of drives in the applicants car, on a regular basis, being coached by a qualified IAM RoadSmart Observer. This course will enhance the driver's handling skills, improve observation and anticipation of hazards on the road and provide the toolset to improve driving in all conditions. The number of drives required depends on the capabilities of the driver, but the average is about 8.

To Qualify for the Funded Advanced Driving Course, you must:

  • Be between the ages of 18 and 26;
  • Have a full UK driving licence
  • Live or work in Gloucestershire
  • Have use of a car
  • Be keen on improving your driving

Terms and Conditions

  • An application for funding must be submitted by email prior to course purchase and accepted by Gloucestershire Advanced Motorists.
  • An assessment drive for suitability will be carried out with a Group Observer.
  • The applicant will then purchase the Advanced Driver course from IAM RoadSmart, currently costing £204.
  •  The full cost of the course will be refunded to the applicant once the Advanced Driver Test has been taken.  Please note that you must complete the course and take the Advanced Driver test to qualify for a refund of the purchase cost.

How to Apply for the Funded Advanced Driving Course

To apply, please email [email protected] stating your name, date of birth, email address, contact phone, post code and a short paragraph stating why you wish to take the Advanced Driver course.  You should allow a period of at least 3-4 months to complete the course.  Your vehicle must remain legally roadworthy throughout.  If you are accepted and funding is available you will be informed immediately.