ADI Tests

The qualifying exam to become an Approved Driving Instructor (ADI) is split into 3 parts. Part 1 is a theory test, part 2 is a test of your driving ability and part 3 is a test of your teaching ability.

The Driving Standards Agency (DSA) regulate and conduct the examination process. The tests are booked through the DSA and the appropriate fee for each test paid to them. You need to pass all three parts of the exam in the order above and complete the whole examination within 2 years of passing the theory test (part 1).

To each test you must take with you your valid UK or Northern Ireland driving licence, both parts of the photo-card style licence or if you have an older paper only licence you need to take your current passport. For part 2 test you must also take your theory test pass certificate.

Part 1 – ADI Theory Test

This test has two elements – multiple choice questions and Hazard Perception.

The multiple choice questions are a test of your knowledge of The Highway Code, the rules of the road and instructional techniques amongst other things. This is a touch screen computer based test of 100 questions in 90 minutes. The questions are split into four bands (the bands ensure you have a comprehensive knowledge across the whole syllabus) with a pass mark is 85% overall, and 80% in each of the four bands.

The Hazard perception part tests your ability to identify hazards which arise whilst you are driving. There are 14 one minute video clips featuring various types of hazard. As soon as you see a hazard developing you click the mouse button, with an early response giving a higher score. The pass mark is 57 out of 75.

You need to pass both parts at the one sitting and can have as many attempts as you need.

Part 2 – Driving Ability

This test lasts 1 hour and includes an eyesight test and Show Me Tell Me (vehicle safety)questions. You must pass all parts in the same attempt.

For the eyesight test you must be able to read in good daylight a registration number containing letters and figures; 79mm in height and 50mm wide at a distance of 26.5m; or 79mm in height and 57mm wide at a distance of 27.5m.

The Show Me Tell Me questions are on basic vehicle safety and will be carried out before the driving part starts.

The driving test section is of an advanced nature and a very high standard of competence is required. You must show that you have a thorough knowledge of the principles of good driving, road safety and eco-friendly driving and that you can apply them in practice as a well-planned, positive, progressive drive.

You are allowed a maximum of 6 driving faults throughout the test. Seven or more driving faults or one or more serious or dangerous faults will result in a failure. You are given your result at the end of the test. There is a restriction of 3 attempts on this test.

Part 3 – Ability to Instruct

This test is an hour in length, with two half hour training sessions. You need to pass both parts on the same test. The objective is to assess the quality of your instruction and your ability to pass your knowledge onto pupils. This is tested by you giving practical driving instruction to the examiner who will take on the role of a pupil. They will take on 2 different roles within the test, so you will give 2 different lessons. You are assessed on the method, accuracy and clarity of instruction given for the stated subject matter to be covered and how well it is linked to the ability of the pupil portrayed at the time. There is a restriction of 3 attempts on this test.

Before the part 3 test you do have the option of taking a Trainee Licence. The Driving Standards Agency issue this for 6 months and it allows you to be legally paid for giving driving instruction. You work with a driving school teaching real pupils and being supervised/receiving further training by your tutor.