About the Group

We’re a friendly bunch of about 140 members of all ages, the group is affiliated to the IAM but is run by enthusiastic volunteers for the benefit of others with a similar interest in Advanced Driving. Some members have not yet passed their Advanced Driving Test and benefit from coaching in preparing for it. All members enjoy the opportunity to socialise with like-minded locals at regular meetings, talks, driving events and visits.

We provide

  • Preparation for the Advanced Driving Test
    When you join us we’ll team you up with one of our Observers. These accomplished Advanced Drivers volunteer their time to help you prepare for your Advanced Test at no additional cost. You’ll drive them in your own car (often 6-10 sessions of 1½ hours at a mutually convenient time) and they will provide any guidance and coaching necessary to get you ready to pass your Advanced Test. We’re proud of our high pass rate.
  • Monthly Meetings and Talks
    We have regular meetings in Harlow, everyone is welcome to come along to listen to one of the arranged talks and socialise with like-minded drivers over a cup of tea.
  • Trips and Events
    We organise motoring-related trips which are often free or discounted. Recent examples include professional Skid Pan training (half price) and a tour of the Highways Agency Regional Control Centre (free).
  • Informal Group Drives
    Whether you’ve passed your Advanced Test or not, everyone is welcome to participate in Group Drives during the summer. We meet locally and organise ourselves in to pairs for a drive on interesting local roads. It’s a great opportunity to share advice and experiences with a range of drivers at all levels. There’s no charge for members.
  • Drive Check
    Want an honest appraisal of your driving ability? Whether you’re an IAM member or not we can help assess your skills and provide guidance during a one hour drive in your own car.Please contact us if you want more information on any of these.

We cover the area shown in green on the map below (approx), if this is convenient for you – perhaps you live or work here – then please do join us.

More about the group

We’re a registered charity (1028031) affiliated to the Institute of Advanced Motorists (IAM). Our IAM Group number is 7193 and our full Group Name is East Herts, Harlow and West Essex Advanced Motorists. Since this is a rather a mouthful we’re often informally referred to as ‘East Herts & West Essex Advanced Motorists‘.

The group used to be called East Herts & Harlow Group of Advanced Motorists but we changed our name in 2008 to more accurately reflect the area we cover.