Becoming an Approved Driving Instructor (ADI) is one of the most accessible routes to self-employment in the UK — relatively low barriers to entry, flexible hours, and genuine earning potential. But the qualification process involves three separate assessments and a strict two-year window to complete them. Here’s exactly what’s involved.
Do You Meet the Basic Requirements?
Before you can apply to start the qualifying process, you must:
- Hold a full UK or EU/EEA car driving licence
- Have held that licence (or a foreign equivalent) for at least four out of the past six years
- Not have been disqualified from driving in the past four years
- Be considered a “fit and proper” person — which includes passing an enhanced DBS (criminal record) check
Certain criminal convictions — particularly those involving sexual offences or serious motoring offences — will prevent you from qualifying. If you have any concerns about your criminal record, contact the DVSA before committing to training costs.
The Three-Part Qualifying Process
Once accepted onto the register as a potential driving instructor, you have two years from passing Part 1 to complete all three parts. You have a maximum of three attempts at Parts 2 and 3. If you use all three attempts on either part, or don’t complete qualification within two years, you must wait two years before starting the process again.
ADI Part 1 — Theory Test (£81)
The ADI Part 1 is a computer-based theory test with two parts taken in the same sitting:
- Multiple choice: 100 questions across four categories. You need to score 85 out of 100 overall, with a minimum of 20 correct answers in each of the four categories. Falling below the minimum in any category is a fail, even if your overall score is 85 or above.
- Hazard perception: You watch video clips and click when you spot developing hazards. You need a score of at least 57 out of 75.
There is no limit on the number of attempts at Part 1. The test fee is £81 per attempt.
ADI Part 2 — Driving Ability Test (£111)
Part 2 is an advanced driving test that assesses your ability to drive to a high standard — significantly above the standard required to pass a standard practical test. The examiner will assess your eyesight, your driving ability on various road types, and your knowledge of the Highway Code. You must achieve a very high standard of driving throughout.
You have three attempts. The fee is £111 per attempt. Most candidates take time specifically preparing for Part 2 with a trainer — don’t underestimate it just because you’ve been driving for years.
ADI Part 3 — Instructional Ability Test (£111)
Part 3 assesses your ability to teach. A DVSA examiner will play the role of a pupil (or you may bring a real learner) and you’ll be assessed on how well you deliver instruction, manage risk, involve the pupil in their own learning, and adapt your approach to their needs. The same client-centred learning principles assessed in the Standards Check apply here.
You have three attempts. The fee is £111 per attempt. Part 3 has a notably lower first-time pass rate than Parts 1 and 2 — proper training with an ORDIT-registered trainer is strongly recommended.
The Trainee Licence
Once you’ve passed Part 2, you can apply for a trainee driving instructor licence (cost: £140). This allows you to give paid driving lessons while you work toward your Part 3 — but only under the supervision of a registered ADI and as part of a driving school. A trainee licence lasts six months and can be renewed once if you’ve not yet passed Part 3. You cannot operate independently on a trainee licence.
Registration and the Green Badge
Once you’ve passed all three parts, you apply to join the ADI register. Registration costs £300 and is valid for four years. You must register within one year of passing Part 3. Your green badge must be displayed in the left-hand side of the windscreen whenever you give paid instruction.
What Does It Cost in Total?
DVSA fees alone, assuming a first-attempt pass on all three parts: Part 1 (£81) + Part 2 (£111) + Part 3 (£111) + Registration (£300) = £603 in DVSA fees. This does not include training costs, which vary widely depending on provider and the level of support you need — typically ranging from £1,500 to £4,000+ for quality ORDIT-registered training.
How Long Does It Take?
With the current backlogs in the system, Part 2 and Part 3 test slots can take weeks or months to secure. Realistically, most candidates complete the full process in six to eighteen months, depending on how quickly tests can be booked and how long preparation takes. Starting your Part 1 study promptly and booking tests as early as possible helps avoid running into the two-year deadline.
Once you’re qualified and ready to build your business, the next challenge is getting pupils. Find out how we help newly qualified and established ADIs build an online presence that generates consistent enquiries.