Course

Advanced ARDS

Advanced ARDS is the required course for drivers who do not hold a valid UK DVLA driving licence. Also available to current race licence holders seeking development and a licence upgrade signature where applicable. For drivers aged 16 years and older on the date of the course.

Overview

Drivers who do not hold a valid UK DVLA driving licence must take Advanced ARDS rather than Standard ARDS. You must already be able to drive a manual car competently; The Motorsport School does not provide learner-driver lessons.

The Advanced ARDS Course also supports current race licence holders who wish to further develop their technique, consistency and racecraft.

More detail

The day includes structured classroom review and detailed one-to-one instruction from experienced ARDS instructors, focusing on advanced braking technique, balance, weight transfer, consistency and race discipline.

Where applicable, and subject to meeting the required standard, the course may be used to obtain one instructor signature towards a licence upgrade in accordance with Motorsport UK regulations.

All on-track sessions are conducted under assessment conditions. Drivers are expected to maintain full control of the vehicle and comply with all circuit regulations at all times.

Requirements & preparation

New to ARDS?
Licence pathways & requirements
What to expect in the ARDS test

  • Drivers who do not hold a valid UK DVLA driving licence must take Advanced ARDS rather than Standard ARDS.
  • You must already be able to drive a manual car competently. The Motorsport School does not provide learner-driver lessons.
  • Long sleeves, trousers and suitable footwear
  • Crash helmet
  • Preparation and discipline are expected at this level, and small errors are less likely to be overlooked than at novice standard.
  • Where required for licence progression, an instructor signature may be issued subject to meeting the required standard and regulations in force at the time.
  • Candidates who do not meet the required driving standard must complete one hour of remedial tuition prior to the course (this may be completed on the same day).

Overview

Develop advanced technique and pace for competitive racing.

What you’ll leave with: Driver improves pace and consistency and may obtain one licence upgrade signature where applicable.

What you’ll learn

  • Trail braking, modulation and advanced braking techniques
  • High-speed stability, grip management and confidence building
  • Racecraft development including defensive driving and overtaking setup
  • Lap-time and sector analysis for consistency improvement
  • Mechanical sympathy and temperature management for tyres and brakes
  • Race start technique and first-lap decision making

On the day

  • Classroom technique review and briefing covering the standard expected for progression
  • Discussion of driving technique, racecraft, awareness, consistency and licence progression where applicable
  • Instructor demonstration laps showing the level of control, line discipline and technique expected
  • Guided on-track coaching sessions focused on refinement rather than outright pace
  • Structured on-track assessment and feedback throughout the day
  • Driving assessment focused on consistency, awareness, control under pressure and technical execution

Track time is rigid, so please arrive in good time to complete signing-on, paperwork and briefing before your session starts.