Become driving instructor
The Basics: So, You Want to Be an ADI?
To become an ADI (Approved Driving Instructor), you need to:
Meet these minimum requirements:
• Be at least 21 years old
• Have held a full UK (or EU) driving licence for at least 3 years
• Have fewer than 6 penalty points on your licence
• Pass a DBS (criminal background) check
• Be able to read a number plate from 26.5 metres away
Why do it?
It’s a rewarding job where you:
• Help others gain independence
• Set your own hours
• Be your own boss
• Earn a steady income — £38,000 to £45,000+ depending on hours and location
How to Become an Approved Driving Instructor (ADI)
Meet the Requirements
Must be 21 or older, have held a full driving licence for at least 3 years, and pass a DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) check.
Apply to the DVSA
Submit your application to the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) to begin the ADI qualification process.
Pass Part 1 – Theory Test
Multiple-choice (100 questions) and hazard perception video clips.
Pass Part 2 – Driving Test
Advanced practical test assessing your driving skill to an expert standard.
Pass Part 3 – Teaching Test
Deliver a 1-hour driving lesson to a real pupil while being assessed by a DVSA examiner.
Join the ADI Register
Once all tests are passed, pay the £300 registration fee for your 4-year ADI licence.
Start Your Career!
“Begin teaching learners independently or join a driving school.”
The ADI Test Process: 3-Part Qualification
The journey to becoming an ADI involves three tests. You must pass all three parts (in order) to qualify.
Part 1: Driving Theory Test for Instructors
This is a more advanced version of the learner driver theory test.
What’s Included:
• 100 multiple choice questions (divided into 4 sections)
• 14 hazard perception video clips
Topics Covered:
1. Road procedure
2. Traffic signs, pedestrians, mechanical knowledge
3. Driving tests, disabilities, driving law
4. Instructional techniques and publications
Pass Marks:
• 85/100 total
• 20/25 minimum in each section
• 57/75 for hazard perception
Other Info:
• Cost: £81• Attempts: Unlimited
• Format: Computer-based, 1.5 hours
Tip:
Use resources like:
• The Driving Instructor’s Handbook
• The Official DVSA Theory Test for ADIs
• Online mock tests & apps Book Now
Part 2: Driving Ability Test
A practical driving test, but at a much higher standard than the learner test.
What’s Tested:
• Eyesight check
• “Show me, tell me” vehicle safety questions (5 questions)
• General driving (town, rural, dual carriageways)
• Manoeuvres
• Independent driving
Pass Criteria:
• No more than 6 driving faults
• Zero serious or dangerous faults
Other Info:
• Cost: £111
• Duration: 1 hour
• Attempts: 3
Note: Failing all 3 attempts at Part 2 means you must start over from Part 1 again.
Part 3: Instructional Ability Test
This test measures how well you can teach someone to drive.
• You deliver a 60-minute real lesson to a pupil
• Can be a learner or full licence holder (but NOT another trainee instructor)
• A DVSA examiner observes your teaching
You’re marked in 17 areas under 3 key categories:
How It Works:
Lesson Planning
Risk Management
Teaching & Learning Strategies
Pass Grades:
• Grade B (31–42 points): Pass
• Grade A (43–51 points): High-quality instructor
• Fail: If risk management score is below 8 or overall score is below 31
• Cost: £111
• Attempts: 3
• Pass Rate: 36.7%
Final Step: Join the ADI Register
Once you pass Part 3:
• This badge allows you to legally charge for lessons
Cost:
• £300 for the ADI registration (valid for 4 years)
Training: How to Prepare for the ADI Tests
Because the tests are tough (especially Part 3), most successful instructors complete a formal training course.
• Use structured study materials
• Take online mock tests
• Recommended books:
• The Driving Instructor’s Handbook
• The Official DVSA Theory Test for ADIs
• Apply for your ADI badge within 12 months
For Part 1 – Theory Training
