The ADI tests

To qualify as an Approved Driving Instructor (ADI), you must pass three examinations. They are ;

• Part 1 - A Theory and Hazard Perception test;
• Part 2 - A paractical test of driving skills;
• Part 3 - A test of teaching ability

You must pass all three parts within 2 years from the date you pass Part 1. You will have only have three attempts at part 2 and 3 in which to pass. Failure to do so, will mean that you would need to start Part 1 again after your 2 years is up.

You will be required to have a Criminal Records check with the CRB.

You must also not have more than 5 points on your driving licence.

Part 1 - Theory test

The theory test involves answering 100 questions related to driving . They have been banded into four main areas:

• Road procedure;
• Traffic signs and signals, car control, pedestrians, mechanical knowledge;
• Driving Test, disabilities, law;
• Publications, instructional techniques.

The overall pass mark for the test is 85%. However, you must reach a minimum mark of 80% in each of the 4 subject areas. So you must get at least 20 out of 25 in each band. A score of 25, 25, 25 and 19 would give you 94% but would not be acceptable. If you have prepared well for Part 1 you will know the answer when you read the question.

The Hazard Perception test (HPT)

The HPT consists of 14 video clips; Each of the clips show a developing hazard, although one clip randomly has two. You are expected to click on a mouse when you see each developing hazard. For each hazard you can score a maximum of 5 points going down to zero, depending when you clicked on the hazard. This gives a highest possible score of 75 for the test. The pass mark for potential driving instructors taking the part 1 is 57. Both the Theory and HPT are taken on a computer.

Part 2 - The Practical driving test

The practical driving test consists of reading a number plate from a distance of 27.5 metres (90 feet) You will you also have to answer and demonstrate knowledge of basic vehicle maintenance

You will be required to demonstrate an above average drive over different types of road conditions. They range from town & urban driving to country driving, as well as dealing with motorways. The test will last an hour, during which you must display a high driving standard. You are allowed to make no more than 6 minor driving faults and no serious driving faults during the test.

In order to pass the test, The examiner must be satisfied you have consistently demonstrated:

• Expert handling of the controls;
• Use of correct road procedures;
• Anticipate the action of other road users and take any appropriate action;
• Sound judgemental of distance, speed and timing;
• Consideration for the convenience and safety of other road users;
• Correctly interpret the rules of the Highway Code.

Part 3 - The test of teaching skills

The purpose of the Part 3 test, is to show a Supervising Examiner from the Driving Standards Agency, that you have the skills necessary to teach a variety of people to drive at various skill levels. You would be expected to show that you can teach people from a complete beginner to someone who is at driving test level. Both require different teaching methods

The test will last about an hour and you will be required to give two - 30 minute lessons. In the first lesson the examiner will play the part of a beginner or partly trained driver. In the second lesson he will play the part of a person approaching test standard. You must pass both halves during the same test.