Guidelines for Candidates and Tutors Theory questions
Following the on road element of the test the Examiner will ask you some questions to check your knowledge of Roadcraft and The Highway Code. You may also be asked some questions relating to your motorcycle.
How does the Examiner decide my grade?
Gold
Gold is only awarded to the rider who shows a consistently high standard of riding throughout the test. The rider will demonstrate a confidence in their ability together with a thorough understanding of the principles contained in Motorcycle Roadcraft and how to apply those principles to situations that occur during the test. They will ride 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 rider 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 motorcycle’s capabilities whilst giving the examiner and other road users the impression of being completely calm and relaxed.
Silver
Silver 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 rider 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.
Bronze
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 riding 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.
Fail
This is a result of the required minimum “Bronze” standard not being achieved, or where one or more parts of the test are deemed to be as follows:
The candidate’s overall standard is just not up to the requirements
A dangerous manoeuvre
Repeatedly exceeding speed limits or a significant infringement of a speed limit (either signed or applicable to the category of vehicle they are using) Violation of Road Traffic Law (contravening solid white lines, stop lines, red traffic lights, speed limits etc), or the rules in the Highway Code.
A minor infringement for which the candidate can give good reason should not generally result in a failure but could contribute to a lower grade being awarded.
Should a candidate fail the Examiner will offer advice on the areas that require improvement and encourage the candidate to obtain further guidance from a local RoADAR group. The candidate can apply to take the test again as soon as they wish, however we would advise taking some additional training before doing so.
An Examiner’s decision on the grade achieved is final.
If a candidate achieves a Bronze or Silver pass they may apply to take a retest (for which a fee is payable) before the three year retest becomes due. If you do wish to improve your standard we would strongly recommend that you join a local group where you will meet like minded people. In any case when your three year re-test is due we will make contact to remind you. You will need to take your test within a reasonable time of the due date in order to keep your membership current.
The hallmark of an Advanced Diver is to always be in the correct place on the road, travelling at the right speed for the circumstances and with the correct gear engaged. It is that simple.
RoSPA North Cumbria and S W Scotland wish you well with your test.