Riders Frequently Asked Questions
This FAQ section has been put together to help answer those very common questions. Please read through these and if you have any queries or new questions please contact us and we'll be happy to answer them for you.
Q. What’s involved in training?
A. Training is conducted 1 on 1. Once you have joined the Group by sending off the completed application form and a cheque the Chief Observer will assign an Observer to you.
Q. How does the training get started?
A. Your Observer will make contact with you and arrange a date and time for your first meeting where he will explain the process in detail.
Q. But how does it work?
A. Basically you go for rides where the Observer will give you feedback on your riding and will also give demonstration rides to show what is meant. Each training session is normally about two and a half hours and for that the Observer would look for a contribution of £10 or £15, depending on the distance travelled, towards their petrol and running costs. At the end of the session a plan would be made for the next session.
Q. How often do I get training rides?
A. If you are able to ride regularly then the sessions can be a week or two apart. If you ride infrequently then the gap is longer so that you can practice any improvements identified.
Q. What does the test involve?
A. The test is around 90 minutes of riding where you will be followed and assessed by a Police Class 1 licence holder. The examiner may be a serving officer or may be retired. At the end you will be questioned on the Highway Code and Roadcraft (don’t worry if you haven’t heard of this publication since all will be revealed when you start training). You will then be given a test result at Gold, Silver, Bronze or Fail. (Haven’t had any F’s yet!)
Q. How much does the test itself cost?
A. It currently costs £54.
Q. So once I have taken the test that’s it?
A. Unlike other advanced riding organisations RoSPA require that full members demonstrate ongoing proficiency by retaking the test every three years in order to maintain a membership grade of Gold, Silver or Bronze.
And how much does it cost to stay a member of RoSPA?
It is currently £20 per year with the first payment due on the anniversary of your successful test.
So I have to pay the RoSPA membership fees annually AND pay for a retest every three years?
No, the retest fee is included in your RoADAR Membership subs. so ongoing membership of RoSPA is the only cost.
Q. When could training start?
A. We would aim to start your training as soon as possible after you have joined the Group.
Q. What is the average time from starting training to taking the test?
A. This varies by individual and can be anything from a couple of rides to a year. Your Observer will tell you when you are test ready.
Q. Do I complete application and pay for my test as well?
A. All you need do to get started is fill in the application form and send it off with a cheque. The test fee will be payable when you are ready for test.
Q. Are there any books I need to Purchase?
A. It is recommended that you purchase a copy of Roadcraft and the Highway Code. Allow around £15.