Passing the ADI Part 2 test is a significant milestone in your journey to becoming an Approved Driving Instructor (ADI). The test is thorough, assessing your driving skills at a high standard over a 60-minute drive. Here’s how you can prepare effectively, avoid common pitfalls, and approach the test with confidence.
Understanding the Marking System
The ADI Part 2 test uses a marking system similar to the learner’s test but with higher standards. It’s now usually marked on an iPad, but it follows the same structure as the DL25 document (Pictured below). If you click on it, you can download a copy.
Here’s how it works:
Driving Faults
Minor errors, like not checking your mirrors, are marked as driving faults. You can accumulate up to six driving faults without failing the test.
Serious and Dangerous Faults
A single serious or dangerous fault will result in immediate failure. Serious faults are potentially dangerous actions or omissions, while dangerous faults involve actual danger to you, the examiner, or other road users.
Manoeuvres
Unlike the learner test, where you perform only one reversing manoeuvre, in the ADI Part 2, you’ll need to perform two manoeuvres, and to a much higher standard.
Common Faults to Avoid
To maximize your chances of passing, be aware of the common faults that candidates often make:
Junction Observations
Failing to take effective observation at junctions can lead to serious faults. Always ensure it’s safe before emerging.
Use of Mirrors
Regular mirror checks are crucial, especially when changing direction or speed. Missing a mirror check at a crucial point can easily cost you your test.
Steering Control
Maintain a steady course and avoid mounting curbs. Poor steering control is a common fault that could lead to failure.
Moving Off Safely
Always check your blind spots and mirrors before moving off. Failing to do so can result in serious faults.
Response to Road Signs and Markings
Misinterpreting or ignoring traffic signs and road markings, such as stopping beyond a stop line, can lead to faults.
Reverse Park Control
Ensure you have full control during reverse parking. Repeated corrections or poor judgment can lead to serious faults. Observations are also a big one here, if your observations are poor, this may cost you the test.
Top Tips for Passing the ADI Part 2 Test
Engage with a good trainer who can help you polish your driving skills to the necessary standard. These trainers should have a high first-time pass rate and can provide valuable feedback.
Practicing by giving a running commentary on what you observe, plan, and do can help improve your attentiveness and hazard awareness. Although you can’t really do this during the test, it’s a great training tool.
Don’t obsess over “test routes”. Instead, familiarize yourself with the local area, particularly challenging areas like complex junctions, roundabouts and hazards. This preparation can help you anticipate and plan your actions more effectively.
Use reference points during manoeuvres to ensure accuracy. For example, knowing when to turn based on where the curb appears in your window can help you execute perfect manoeuvres.
Focus on smooth, controlled driving. Sudden movements, harsh braking, or inconsistent speed control can go against you.
Nerves can lead to mistakes. Practice relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing, to stay calm during the test. Remember, a mistake doesn’t always mean a fail—focus on the road ahead and continue driving well.
Myth Busting
“You need to drive slowly to pass”
This is a common misconception. You should drive at an appropriate speed for the road and conditions, not too slow or too fast. Making good progress where necessary though is crucial.
“Signalling always helps”
Signalling when it’s unnecessary can actually count against you. Only signal when it’s needed to inform other road users, and time them well too.
“Just move your head around to show you’re checking mirrors”
If your trainer has told you this, get a new one. You should look where and when is necessary for the situation.
On the Day of the Test
Make a Good First Impression
Ensure your car is clean, and you’re well-dressed. First impressions really matter!
Take Your Training Records
Although this is not strictly necessary, your examiner will appreciate this. It shows that you have put in the work and that you have kept a detailed record of it.
Warm-Up Drive
Arrange a driving session around the test centre on the day of your test to get into the right mindset and familiarize yourself with any changes in the area, for example temporary traffic lights or roadworks.
Handle Mistakes Gracefully
If you make a mistake, don’t dwell on it. Recover calmly and continue focusing on driving to the best of your ability.
By following these tips and focusing on avoiding common faults, you’ll increase your chances of passing the ADI Part 2 test on the first attempt.
