IAM RoadSmart NZ has three categories of membership:
Associate: The ‘entry-level’ is available immediately upon joining to anyone who has access to a licensed and warranted vehicle and has the appropriate minimum of a Restricted driving license.
Friend: For those who wish to be a member and support us in Road Safety but who can’t or choose not to take their advanced test for now.
Full: Open to drivers and riders, with a full New Zealand Licence in the appropriate class and have passed the appropriate IAM RoadSmart advanced test.
Some full members choose to volunteer their time to qualify as Observers or Examiners and join the team dedicated to promoting safer riding/driving in New Zealand.
If you decide that driving/riding to a higher standard is for you, a summary of the journey to achieve the Advanced Test is as follows:
- Everyone starts with completing the application form HERE (no payment is necessary at this stage)
- We will contact you to arrange a free Initial Assessment with an Observer who will discuss IAM RoadSmart’s processes and goals and come out with you to see how you drive.
- The Observer will give you a written report outlining your strengths and areas for improvement.
- To become a member, you will need to pay a fee including the full membership and joining/test fee.
- Once funds are received, we will provide you with a copy of Roadcraft (the Police Drivers Manual) and a copy of The NZ Standard for Car Drivers.
- We will assign one or more Observers to mentor you to the required test standard. Depending on your current standard, this will likely be a series of observed drives. Between these outings, you are encouraged to work on your skills and invited to join any locally organised social events.
- When your Observer considers that you are at test standard, an independent Observer will then take you for a cross-check drive. Usually, in addition to demonstrating your standard, you will undertake a theory test of 10 questions on each of the Road Code and Roadcraft. If successful we’ll put you forward for an Examiner to get in touch and arrange a convenient time for you both.
- An Examiner will conduct the Advanced Test to qualify you for full membership of IAM RoadSmart.
- Once you pass The Advanced Test you will be awarded full membership status at no extra charge for the remainder of your membership and thereafter subject to your annual membership fee.
- You can now continue with your full membership and enjoy the benefits of belonging to IAM RoadSmart New Zealand. Some full members choose to contribute to the ongoing growth of IAM RoadSmart NZ by starting on the journey to becoming an Observer and assisting others in raising their skills.
Safe, Systematic, Smoothness, Progress and Restraint