INSTRUCTOR
TRAINING.
Discover our instructor-training programme, understand the ADI qualification stages and see what your new career could involve.
ENQUIRE ABOUT TRAINING ↗THREE STAGES.
ONE NEW CAREER.
Our training programme is designed to support you through the three stages of qualification. Explore the details below, including our original learning resources and examples.
Qualification requirements can change. Check the latest official guidance at GOV.UK before relying on older course information.
Become a driving instructor in Essex
Looking for a career where you can help people become safer, more confident drivers? Qualifying as an Approved Driving Instructor (ADI) offers the opportunity to teach, develop your own skills and potentially work flexibly.
Only Essex Driving welcomes enquiries from people interested in instructor training. We can discuss the qualification process, your starting point and training options. Your eligibility and the DVSA qualifying tests determine when you can become an ADI.
Am I eligible?
To apply in Great Britain, you normally need to be at least 21, have held a full driving licence for at least 3 years, and not have been disqualified from driving in the previous 4 years. DVSA also assesses your suitability and requires a new criminal-record check as part of the application process.
Start by checking the official DVSA qualification process and eligibility rules.
How do I qualify?
There are three tests: Part 1 theory and hazard perception, Part 2 driving ability and Part 3 instructional ability. After passing Part 1, you must complete qualification within its two-year validity period. Part 2 and Part 3 normally allow up to three attempts each.
These requirements apply to Great Britain. Northern Ireland operates a different process.
ADI Part 1 — Theory and hazard perception
Part 1 checks your knowledge of road rules, driving technique, relevant law and teaching principles. It combines a multiple-choice paper with a hazard perception test; you must pass both sections.
Multiple-choice section
You have 90 minutes to answer 100 questions, split into four categories of 25 questions. The pass standard is at least 85 out of 100 overall, including 20 out of 25 in every category.
Hazard perception
The hazard perception section uses video clips to assess how early you spot developing hazards. The pass mark is 57 out of 75.
Preparation should include official DVSA learning materials, the Highway Code, and the national standards for driving and driver training.
ADI Part 2 — Driving ability
Part 2 is an advanced practical assessment of your own driving. The test lasts approximately one hour and includes an eyesight check, vehicle-safety questions, general driving, reversing exercises and independent driving.
Eyesight check
You must be able to read a number plate at 27 metres for a new-style plate or 27.5 metres for an old-style plate.
Vehicle-safety questions
The examiner asks 3 “tell me” questions before driving and 2 “show me” questions while you drive. These cover everyday vehicle-safety checks and controls.
Road driving and reversing
You demonstrate safe, expert car control, observation and judgement in different road and traffic conditions. Where possible, this includes motorways or dual carriageways. You may also be asked to make an emergency stop.
You will carry out 2 reversing exercises selected from parallel parking, reversing into a bay, driving into a bay and reversing out, or pulling up on the right and reversing before rejoining traffic.
The independent-driving section lasts about 20 minutes, following a sat nav supplied by the examiner or traffic signs.
Show Me / Tell Me — Prepare for vehicle-safety questions
Knowing how to operate and check a vehicle safely is part of the ADI Part 2 test. Practise with the vehicle you intend to use, and make sure you can explain safety checks clearly without losing control while driving.
What are some example questions?
Tell me: How would you check the brakes are working before starting a journey? How would you check the engine-oil level? How would you confirm the headlights and tail lights are working?
Show me: When it is safe, demonstrate how to clean the front or rear windscreen, use the rear demister or switch on dipped headlights.
The exact question list is published by DVSA and should be used for revision rather than relying on an unofficial or outdated list.
ADI Part 3 — Instructional ability
This test assesses how well you teach a real pupil. A DVSA examiner observes you delivering a client-centred driving lesson of about 45 minutes. Your pupil should drive for approximately 40 minutes.
What does the examiner assess?
The examiner assesses 17 competencies in three areas: lesson planning, risk management, and teaching and learning strategies. You are expected to agree lesson goals with your pupil, maintain safety, adapt your instruction, and help the pupil reflect on their progress.
How is Part 3 marked?
Each competency is marked from 0 to 3, up to a maximum of 51 points. Scores of 31–42 achieve Grade B (pass), while 43–51 achieve Grade A (pass). A low risk-management score or serious safety issue can lead to failure even if the overall points would otherwise be enough.
Can I earn while training?
After passing Parts 1 and 2, eligible candidates can apply for an optional six-month trainee driving instructor licence to gain practical teaching experience while preparing for Part 3.
Before applying, you must complete at least 40 hours of instructional training with a qualified ADI, including at least 10 hours in a car. You must meet the DVSA licence and sponsoring requirements.
During the licence period, DVSA requires you to choose between supervision for 20% of lessons or at least 20 hours of additional training, subject to the detailed rules. The trainee licence permits charging for lessons under its conditions; it does not mean you are fully qualified as an ADI.
DVSA test and registration fees
The following are DVSA fees, not Only Essex Driving's training charges. They are correct as checked in October 2026 and may change. Repeat test attempts incur additional fees.
- ADI Part 1 test: £81
- ADI Part 2 test: £111
- ADI Part 3 test: £111
- Optional trainee licence: £140
- First ADI registration: £300
- ADI registration renewal (normally every four years): £300
That is £303 for one attempt at each of the three tests, excluding DBS checks, training, optional trainee licensing and first registration. Ask our team for details of current training availability and charges before committing.
Professional standards for driving instructors
Driving instructors are expected to follow DVSA professional standards, protect learner safety and act fairly in their business dealings. The training process should prepare candidates for these responsibilities as well as the tests.
DVSA announced an updated mandatory code of practice in September 2026. Its effective date is still to be confirmed and was expected between late 2026 and early 2027. Until it comes into force, follow the current requirements and check GOV.UK for the latest position.
Read current and forthcoming DVSA codes of practice ↗
Ready to discuss your options?
If you want to become an instructor in Essex, contact Only Essex Driving to discuss your experience and suitable training routes. We can explain our current training options and availability without promising particular test results.
Use the Training Enquiry button alongside this guide to contact our team.
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