Congratulations on taking your first step toward becoming an Approved Driving Instructor (ADI)! This guide outlines everything you need to know about the qualification process. Becoming an ADI typically takes between 6 to 12 months and requires commitment and effort, but the reward—a flexible, self-employed career with earning potential of over £1600 per week—makes it an excellent opportunity.

We encourage you to explore other training providers and compare their offerings. We are confident you’ll find our program offers unmatched value, flexibility, and one-on-one support that sets us apart.

Training can be scheduled around your existing commitments, including evenings and weekends. We welcome candidates from across the Merseyside region and beyond.

Understanding the ADI Register

The ADI Register exists to ensure a minimum national standard of instruction for learner drivers, administered by the DVSA under the Road Traffic Act 1988. By law, you cannot charge for driving instruction unless:

• Your name is on the ADI Register, or
• You hold a valid trainee licence

To become an ADI, you must:

• Hold a full UK or NI car driving licence (for at least 4 of the past 6 years)
• Not have been disqualified from driving in the last 4 years
• Be deemed a “fit and proper” person (based on criminal or motoring convictions)
• Pass all 3 parts of the ADI qualifying exam within 2 years of passing Part 1

The Qualification Process

Part 1: Theory Test You can take this test at any UK theory test centre. It includes:

• 100 multiple-choice questions across 4 sections (minimum 80% in each and 85% overall)
• A hazard perception test (minimum 57 out of 75)

Study options include home study, classroom sessions, or in-car training. You can retake this test as many times as needed.

Part 2: Driving Ability Test This hour-long exam includes:

• Eyesight check
• Vehicle safety (‘Show Me, Tell Me’) questions
• General driving, manoeuvres, and independent driving

You are allowed up to 3 attempts. Upon passing, you can proceed to Part 3.

Part 3: Instructional Ability Test This involves delivering a one-hour, client-centred driving lesson to a real student. You’ll be assessed on:

• Lesson planning
• Risk management
• Teaching and learning strategies

Scores determine your grade:

• 43–51 = Grade A (high standard)
• 31–42 = Grade B (acceptable standard)
• 0–30 = Fail

Automatic fail occurs if you score 7 or below in risk management or if safety is compromised.

Trainee Licence (Optional)

After passing Part 2, you may apply for a trainee licence valid for 6 months. This allows you to teach learners under certain conditions:

• Receive at least 40 hours of ADI-led training
• Be supervised for 20% of teaching hours in the first 3 months or complete additional training

We help arrange placements and offer training even if you do not join our own driving school.

Registration and Ongoing Development

Upon passing all 3 parts and paying the registration fee, you will receive your official ADI certificate, which must be displayed in your instruction vehicle. The initial registration lasts 4 years, with renewals available thereafter.

All ADIs undergo reassessment every 2–4 years. We offer additional training to help you maintain and improve your grade.

Ready to Start?

Take the next step towards a flexible, meaningful career as a driving instructor. Contact us today to schedule an informal meeting, a driving assessment, and get your questions answered.