What Are the ADI Tests? A Guide to Parts 1, 2 and 3

Understanding what each test involves can help you plan your training and prepare for each stage of becoming a driving instructor.

What are the ADI tests?

The three ADI qualifying tests are:

The Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) uses these tests to check that aspiring instructors meet the required standards for driver and rider training.

You must pass Part 1 before you can take Part 2, and you must pass Part 2 before taking Part 3.

Once you pass Part 1, you have two years to complete the qualifying process. If you do not qualify within that period, you will need to start the process again.

ADI Part 1: The theory test

ADI Part 1 is the theory stage of the qualification.

The test has two sections:

The multiple-choice section contains 100 questions, divided into four categories. You have 90 minutes to complete it. The categories cover areas including road procedure, traffic signs and signals, driving law, driving tests and instructional techniques.

You then complete the hazard perception section, which uses video clips to test your ability to identify developing hazards.

You must pass both sections to pass ADI Part 1.

What is the ADI Part 1 pass mark?

For the multiple-choice section, you need:

For the hazard perception section, you need at least 57 out of 75.

There is no limit on the number of attempts you can make at Part 1. However, you must pass the remaining qualifying tests within two years of passing it.

ADI Part 2: The driving ability test

Once you pass Part 1, you can move on to ADI Part 2.

This test assesses your driving ability. You need to demonstrate that you can drive to the standard expected of an Approved Driving Instructor.

The DVSA currently charges £111 to take the test. You have a maximum of three attempts to pass Part 2.

You should allow plenty of time for training before booking your test. A registered trainer can help you identify areas that need improvement and prepare you for the standard expected during the assessment.

ADI Part 3: The instructional ability test

After passing Part 2, you can prepare for ADI Part 3.

This test assesses your ability to teach learner drivers. You need to demonstrate that you can provide effective instruction and help a learner make progress.

The DVSA describes Part 3 as the instructional ability test. You have three attempts to pass it. The current test fee is £111.

Before taking Part 3, you may apply for a six-month trainee driving instructor licence after passing Part 2. This can give you practical experience teaching learners while you prepare for the final test.

How should you prepare for the ADI tests?

Each part requires a different type of preparation.

For Part 1, focus on the Highway Code, road safety, driving law, instructional techniques and the other materials listed by the DVSA. The DVSA also provides official revision resources for the theory and hazard perception tests.

For Part 2, work on bringing your driving up to the required standard. Your trainer can help you identify weaknesses and practise the skills assessed during the test.

For Part 3, focus on developing your teaching skills. You need to understand how learners develop their driving skills and how to adapt your instruction to their needs.

The DVSA recommends getting a registered trainer to help you prepare for all three qualifying tests.

What happens after you pass all three ADI tests?

Passing Part 3 means you have completed the qualifying tests, but you still need to register as an ADI.

The DVSA states that you must register within 12 months of qualifying. Once you receive your ADI certificate, you can charge for driving lessons. You can then work for a driving school or set up your own driving instructor business.

If you plan to work independently, you will also need to consider your vehicle, business costs and driving instructor insurance before you start teaching.

How long do the ADI tests take to complete?

There is no standard timeframe for completing the three tests. Your training needs, test availability and whether you pass each test first time can all affect how long the qualification takes.

The important thing is to understand the requirements for each stage and give yourself enough time to prepare properly.

Summary

If you are considering becoming a driving instructor, understanding each stage can help you plan your training and prepare for the qualification with greater confidence.

Sources

1. GOV.UK: Become a car driving instructor GOV.UK: Become a car driving instructor

2. GOV.UK: ADI Part 1 test GOV.UK: ADI Part 1 test

3. GOV.UK: ADI Part 1 pass mark and test result GOV.UK: ADI Part 1 pass mark and test result

4. GOV.UK: ADI register guide GOV.UK: ADI register guide

5. GOV.UK: ADI qualifying test data GOV.UK: ADI qualifying test data