The ADI Part 2 test is essential because it verifies that your driving skills meet a high standard, which is crucial before you can teach others. If your own driving ability isn’t up to scratch, it raises the question: how can you effectively instruct learners? This test ensures you’re not just capable of driving, but that you do so with the precision and safety necessary to guide new drivers. Passing this test confirms your readiness to set a strong example for your future students.
What to Bring to Your ADI Part 2 Test
Make sure to bring:
Your UK driving licence
If you lose it, apply for a replacement, which could take up to 15 days.
A suitable car
Ensure your vehicle meets the test requirements.
Without these, your test will be cancelled without a refund.
Additional Notes:
If you don’t have a photocard licence, bring your passport and paper licence. For Northern Ireland licences, bring both the photocard and paper counterpart.
What Happens During the ADI Part 2 Test
The ADI Part 2 test is a detailed assessment of your driving skills, covering five key areas:
1. Eyesight Check
You’ll need to read a number plate from a distance of 27 metres. Failing this will mean an automatic fail.
2. ‘Show Me, Tell Me’ Questions
You’ll be asked 5 vehicle safety questions known as the ‘show me, tell me’ questions. These test that you know how to carry out basic safety tasks.
You’ll be asked:
- 3 ‘tell me’ questions at the start of your test, before you start driving
- 2 ‘show me’ questions while you’re driving – for example, showing how to wash the windscreen using the car controls and wipers
You’ll get a driving fault for each incorrect answer you give.
3. General Driving Ability
You’ll need to demonstrate to the examiner that you can:
- Handle the vehicle’s controls with expertise
- Follow correct road procedures
- Anticipate and respond appropriately to other road users
- Make sound judgments regarding distance, speed, and timing
- Consider the safety and convenience of others
- Drive in an environmentally friendly manner
You’ll be tested in a variety of road and traffic conditions, including motorways or dual carriageways if available.
4. Manoeuvres
The examiner will ask you to perform two of the following reversing maneuvers:
- Parallel park at the side of the road.
- Reverse into a parking bay and then drive out.
- Drive into a parking bay and then reverse out.
- Pull up on the right-hand side of the road, reverse for about two car lengths, and then rejoin the traffic.
5. Independent Driving
For about 20 minutes, you’ll drive independently, following either:
- Directions from a sat nav (provided and set up by the examiner)
- Traffic signs
The examiner will inform you which method to follow.
Additional Points:
Sat Nav
You cannot use your own; only the one provided by the examiner.
Going Off Route
Taking a wrong turn won’t affect your result unless it involves a driving fault. The examiner will help you get back on track.
Obscured Traffic Signs
If signs are blocked, the examiner will give directions until you can see the next one.
What if I make mistakes during the Test?
If you make a mistake during your test, don’t worry—you can continue. It might not impact your result unless the mistake is serious. The examiner will only stop the test if they believe your driving poses a danger to other road users.
Faults and Test Results
There are three types of faults you can make during the test:
- Driving Fault: A minor issue that could become serious if repeated.
- Dangerous Fault: Involves actual danger to you, the examiner, or others.
- Serious Fault: Something potentially dangerous.
Pass Mark
To pass, you must:
- Make no more than six driving faults.
- Avoid any serious or dangerous faults.
If You Pass
The examiner will provide feedback on any faults and give you a copy of the driving test report. You can then book your ADI Part 3 test or apply for a trainee instructor licence.
If You Fail
The examiner will explain your faults. You can retake the test, but if you fail three times, you must retake and pass the ADI Part 1 test again after a two-year wait.
For more details, you can refer to the official GOV.UK ADI Part 2 guide.
