A guide to the ADI part three test

Once you are an approved driving instructor, you will undoubtedly need the correct driving instructor’s insurance. However, before that, you will need to pass a series of tests to become an ADI.

To qualify as an approved driving instructor (ADI), you’ll need to pass all three ADI tests.

Here, we look at what the third and final part of the ADI test involves and what you can do to prepare for it.

What is ADI part three?

ADI part three is the final test you take to become an approved driving instructor. It assesses your ability to teach learner drivers.

You’ll need to pass ADI part two before taking part three, and it must be taken within two years of passing part one.

What does the ADI part three test involve?

The test involves you instructing a pupil during a lesson with the examiner observing from the back seat. During your assessment, the examiner will be looking for evidence that shows you meet the national standards set for driver and rider training.

You’ll be marked across 17 areas, which are split into three categories (you can score a maximum of three points per area, 51 points in total):

• Lesson planning
• Risk management
• Teaching and learning strategies

It’s also a good idea to put your pupil at ease and let them know that the examiner is there to test you and not them.

After your pupil leaves, your examiner will let you know whether you’ve passed or failed, along with any additional feedback or observations.

How long is a ADI part three test?

The test takes between 45 minutes and one hour. Your pupil will need to be driving for around 40 minutes, which should also give you enough time to set out lesson goals, recap, and answer any specific questions they may have.

How can I prepare for the ADI part three test?

To take the test, you’ll need a pupil, a suitable car, and your UK driving licence. It’s also a good idea to take a log of any training you’ve completed, along with your ADI part two pass certificate.

What pupil should I choose?

Your pupil needs to be able to drive for at least 40 minutes without stopping, so they could be a fully trained or partly trained learner driver. They could also be a licence holder already.

You won’t be able to choose someone who is an ADI or training to be an ADI.

What car should I use?

Your car will need to meet certain specifications, including:

• Not have any warning lights showing, such as an airbag, oil, or fuel light
• Have damage-free tyres that also meet the legal minimum for tread depth
• Be roadworthy, and have an MOT if it’s over three years old
• Have an extra rear-view mirror for the examiner
• Have a passenger seatbelt and head restraint
• Be able to reach 62mph and have a speedometer in mph

You can find a detailed list of specifications, including information about dashcams at GOV.UK.

What’s the pass rate for ADI part three?

You’ll need at least 31 points (out of 51) to pass:

• Scoring between 31-42 is a grade B pass
• Scoring between 43-51 is a grade A pass

If you score between 0-30, you’ll fail the test.

You’ll automatically fail the test if you score seven or less in the risk management category or the examiner stops the test because you’ve put yourself or someone else in danger.

If you pass, you can apply for your ADI badge. Remember to apply for this within 12 months of passing ADI part three, or you’ll need to take and pass all three tests again.

How many times can I attempt the ADI part three test?

You have up to three attempts, so if you fail twice, you can still take the test within two years of passing the ADI part one test.

What happens if I fail the part three test?

If you fail the part three test on your third attempt, you’ll need to retake and pass ADI parts one and two again. Bear in mind that if this happens, you’ll need to wait two years before you can take part one again (starting from the date you originally passed).

What insurance do I need for ADI part three?

You’ll need driving instructor insurance that covers ADI part three. This means your policy should cover you, your pupil, and the examiner during the test.

Most driving instructor policies cover a broad range of events and risks, including the part three test, but it’s always worth checking, just in case.

Don’t forget that when you pass the part three test and officially start teaching as a fully qualified ADI you will need to inform your insurer so that they can ensure your policy is updated.

If you’re looking to renew or compare driving instructor insurance for PDIs and ADIs and want some guidance, speak to one of our experts on 01603 301770.