The practical test of driving ability consists of an eyesight test, safety questions and a test of driving technique. It lasts for about one hour and you must pass all parts of it during one test.
You are only allowed three attempts at passing the ADI Part 2 test. After this, you must wait until two years after your Theory Test pass date before you can reapply to become a Driving Instructor again.
You must be able to read in good daylight. with the aid of glasses or contact lenses if worn, a motor vehicle registration mark containing letters and figures:
If you don't pass the eyesight test, you won't be allowed to take the driving ability element. The test will be marked as a fail and will count towards your three attempts.
Your examiner will ask you to describe how to perform a check on the condition and safety of three components of the vehicle and demonstrate an actual check on the condition of a further two components.
The components will be chosen from the following list: tyres, steering, brakes, lights, reflectors, direction indicators, audible warning device and the liquids used in the braking system, steering system, engine or elsewhere in the vehicle as a coolant, lubricant, cleaner or otherwise.
The test of driving ability is an advanced driving test and a very high standard of competence is required. You must show that you have a thorough knowledge of the principles of good driving and road safety and that you can apply them. You must satisfy the examiner on all or any of the following subjects:
The routes used for the test will include roads which may carry heavy and/or fast moving traffic; they will also cover a range of road and traffic conditions, including urban and rural conditions.
The practical driving test includes approximately ten minutes of independent driving, this was introduced in October 2010. It is designed to test your ability to drive unsupervised, and make safe decisions without guidance.
The independent driving or riding section is included in the following practical driving tests:
During your test you'll have to drive independently by either following:
Independent driving is not a test of your orientation and navigation skills, or your ability to remember directions. Driving independently means making your own decisions - this includes deciding when it's safe and appropriate to ask for confirmation about where you're going. To help you understand where you're going, the examiner may show you a diagram.
If you go off the route or take a wrong turning, the examiner will help you to get back on the route and continue with the independent driving. Going off the driving route will not affect your result unless you commit a driving fault.
You won't need to have a detailed knowledge of the area. You can't use a sat nav for independent driving as it gives you turn-by-turn prompts.
You must show the ability to perform any or all of the following manoeuvres including all three of the reversing exercises:
It is your responsibility to provide a car which is properly taxed and insured. It must be a saloon car or hatchback/estate car in good working condition and with seat belts in working order. It must be capable of the normal performance of vehicles of its type with a manual transmission, right-hand steering, a readily adjustable seat with a head restraint for a forward facing front passenger, and an adjustable interior rear view mirror for use by the examiner. The car must not display L plates.
If your vehicle does not meet the above requirements, it will not be possible to carry out the test.