ADI Training Explained: What to Expect from Parts 1, 2 and 3
If you’re thinking about becoming an Approved Driving Instructor (ADI), you’ll need to go
through a three-part qualification process set by the DVSA (Driver and Vehicle
Standards Agency). Each stage is designed to assess different skills — from your
knowledge of the Highway Code to your practical driving ability, and finally, your
instructional techniques.
Here’s a clear breakdown of each stage so you know exactly what to expect.

Part 1 – The Theory Test
The ADI Part 1 test is a computer-based assessment that checks your knowledge and
understanding of road safety, driving techniques, and the rules of the road.
What’s included:
• Multiple-choice questions – 100 questions covering four categories:
1. Road procedure
2. Traffic signs and signals, car control, pedestrians, and mechanical
knowledge
3. Driving test, disabilities, and the law
4. Instructional techniques, knowledge, and responsibilities
• Hazard perception – 14 video clips where you must spot developing hazards as
early as possible.
Pass marks:
• 85% overall in the multiple-choice section (with at least 80% in each category)
• At least 57 out of 75 in the hazard perception section
Preparation tips:
• Study the Highway Code, Driving – The Essential Skills, and DVSA’s Driving
Instructor’s Handbook
• Practise hazard perception clips regularly
• Use ADI-specific theory apps to get used to the question style

Part 2 – The Driving Ability Test
Part 2 is a practical driving test, but it’s more advanced than the standard L-test. The
DVSA expects you to demonstrate a high level of skill, safety, and confidence — the
standard of someone who will be teaching others.
What’s involved:
• An eyesight check
• Vehicle safety questions (“show me, tell me”)
• Around 1 hour of driving covering various road types and conditions
• Advanced manoeuvres, such as:
o Pulling up on the right and reversing
o Reverse parking (into a bay or parallel park)
o Driving forwards into a bay and reversing out
•
Independent driving (following signs or sat nav)
Pass criteria:
• No more than 6 driving faults
• No serious or dangerous faults
Preparation tips:
• Take training with an experienced ADI trainer who knows the DVSA marking
system
• Practise driving in unfamiliar areas to sharpen your awareness and adaptability
• Focus on forward planning, hazard awareness, and smooth control

Part 3 – The Instructional Ability Test
Part 3 is often the most challenging stage. Here, you’ll be assessed on your ability to give
a driving lesson that meets the DVSA’s national standards.
What to expect:
• The test lasts around 45 minutes
• You’ll teach a real pupil (either a learner driver or a partly trained driver)
• The DVSA examiner will observe how you plan the lesson, identify your pupil’s
needs, and adapt your teaching style accordingly
Key skills assessed:

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• Lesson planning and goal setting
• Risk management and keeping the pupil safe
• Communication and feedback techniques
• Adapting to the pupil’s ability and learning pace
Pass tips:
• Always agree on lesson goals at the start
• Give clear, timely instructions and feedback
• Balance talking with practical driving time — don’t overload the pupil
• Show flexibility if the lesson plan needs to change

Final Thoughts
The ADI qualification process is thorough, and it should be — you’re training to guide
learners through one of the most important skills they’ll ever acquire. With the right
preparation, support, and mindset, each part of the test becomes more manageable.
Remember:
• Part 1 is about knowledge
• Part 2 is about advanced driving ability
• Part 3 is about teaching skills
Master all three, and you’ll be well on your way to a rewarding new career as an
Approved Driving Instructor. If you would like to find out more about this rewarding
career and want to start your driving instructor training get in touch with Geoff Capes
Driving Instructor Training – we offer local 1-2-1 support and training and you have the
option to join our busy driving school when you qualify.