BGAM Young Drivers Programme
Be a better driver.
A fully funded advanced driving course for 17 to 25 year olds in the Scottish Borders.
Passing your test is the start of learning to drive well. This programme gives young drivers in the Borders the chance to build real skill and confidence behind the wheel, with friendly, experienced coaches and no course fee to pay.
Who it's for
This is a good fit for any young driver who wants to feel safer and more confident on the road. It's also a great thing to do for a son, daughter or grandchild. Parents are very welcome to apply on their behalf.
To apply, you need to be:
- Aged 17 to 25 when you apply
- Living in the Scottish Borders (you'll be asked for your postcode)
- A full driving licence holder (a provisional licence isn't accepted)
- Able to use your own car and insurance
This programme is for car drivers only.
What you get
A fully funded IAM advanced driving course, delivered locally by BGAM
Coaching from BGAM's volunteer Observers, who are experienced advanced drivers
A focus on safer, more confident, more progressive driving
The course and test fee covered
Funded by Drivewise, a Borders charity, provided you complete the course within 12 months.
How it works
Apply online
It takes a few minutes.
We check your details
The first 10 eligible applicants who confirm they can commit are offered a place.
Come to an induction day
You'll meet the team and get your course details. [Date to follow]
Take your course
Complete it within 12 months to keep your funding.
First release of places
There are 10 places in this first release. If you apply after they're taken, you'll go on our waiting list for the next release, and we'll let you know as soon as more places open. Applying is still worth doing.
A note for parents
If you're applying for your son or daughter, we'll ask for their details first, then yours. We'll contact them directly and copy you in. Applying is quick, and there's nothing to pay for the course itself.
Who's behind the programme
Three groups make this programme possible.
BGAM coaches you
BGAM (the Borders Group of Advanced Motorists) is a volunteer-run, not-for-profit group. We are here to promote road safety in the Scottish Borders. We deliver the IAM RoadSmart Advanced Driving and Motorbike Riding Courses. This programme is for car drivers only.
IAM RoadSmart sets the standard
IAM RoadSmart, also known as the Institute of Advanced Motorists, is a road safety charity founded in 1956. Its Advanced Driver Course is coached on real roads, in your own car, and finishes with the Advanced Test. Local groups like BGAM deliver it.
Drivewise funds your place
Drivewise Borders is a registered Scottish charity working to reduce serious and fatal road accidents through education and training. It funds the places on this programme.
Local volunteers, a national road safety charity and a Borders charity, all behind you.
Questions
Yes. You'll need your own car and insurance.
Not at the moment. A full licence is needed.
The course and test fee are covered by Drivewise, as long as you complete the course within 12 months.
This programme is for Scottish Borders residents only.
You'll get a confirmation email, and we'll be in touch shortly.
It's the IAM RoadSmart Advanced Driver Course. You're coached by a volunteer Observer on real roads, in your own car, and the course finishes with the Advanced Test. See the course details.
No. This programme is for car drivers only.