Driving Instructor Tests

Course Overview

When we consider how the ADI qualification is structured, it really is an effective, logical and simple system:

• Part One: Demonstrate you know the theory of driving and teaching in a car
• Part Two: Demonstrate you can drive to a very good standard
• Part Three: Demonstrate that you can teach someone else to drive

Part One Test

To ensure you have a structured and logical approach to the test, you will receive the part 1 study guide along with the relevant DVSA recommended books and a hazard perception DVD included in the training package.

The test is in two parts. Multiple choice questions and hazard perception.

There are 25 questions in each of these 4 categories:

• road procedure
• traffic signs and signals, car control, pedestrians and mechanical knowledge
• driving test, disabilities, and the law
• publications and instructional techniques

The pass mark for the multiple choice is 85 per cent. However, to pass, you will have to achieve a minimum of 80 per cent in each band. For example, even if you got 100 per cent in three of the bands and 79 per cent in the fourth, this will result in a fail.

Therefore, we provide help and support with regular sessions during the part one training, rather than leaving you to get on with it, as some training providers may do. Having a detailed knowledge of the theory is vital as a strong basis for a successful career as an instructor.

Hazard perception test

The test consists of 14 video clips. As each hazard develops you will need to click on the mouse. There are 15 hazards altogether, as one of the clips has 2 hazards.

The pass mark for the hazard perception is 57 out of a possible 75. A maximum 5 points is allotted to each hazard.

Part Two Test

You must demonstrate your ability to drive at a high standard. Contrary to belief, this test is not a longer version of the ‘L’ test, it is of an advanced nature and you will be expected to demonstrate the principles of good driving and road safety. The pass rate for this test is below 50 percent for first time pass. It is imperative you do not cut corners when preparing for this test. You will be supplied with the part 2 study guide which along with in-car training will help you to reach the high standard required.

The training vehicle will be made available for the test along with the trainer if required.

Part Three Test

This is the last of the tests you must pass to qualify as an approved driving instructor. You will have to demonstrate your ability to teach someone to drive. The part three test has, until December 2017, been a roleplay test whereby the examiner would play the part of a learner driver. However, this is no longer seen as an effective way to assess PDI’s, therefore, the examiner will sit in the back of the car and assess you teaching a real pupil. The assessment will be based on the criteria set out in the Standards Check form (SC1) and the National Standards (NDSDRT).

Once qualified all ADI’s must take at least one Standards Check in each 4-year period of registration to remain on the ADI Register.
Once the test has finished and the SC1 form has been completed, the examiner will discuss your performance and give you your grade. The grade will depend on the score you achieve.

There are three grades: A, B or F:

• Grade A indicates an overall high level of instruction – 85% or over (marking range 43 – 51)
• Grade B indicates a sufficient level of competence – 60% or over (marking range 31 – 42)
• Fail indicates an unsatisfactory performance – less than 60% (marking range 0 - 30)

If you fail, you will have up to two more attempts at the test. If you fail three times, you will have to retake all the ADI qualifying tests again.