Qualification Process

In order to qualify as a Driving Standards Agency ADI, the candidate must pass three qualifying exams usually taking from six months to a year.

PART 1 is a computer-based theory and hazard perception test, much the same as that taken by learner drivers but with 100 questions rather than 50 and a higher pass mark is required in both parts.

PART 2 is a driving test lasting one hour where the candidate is expected to show the highest standard of safe and courteous driving skill. Only five minor faults are allowed compared to the fifteen allowed in the 40 minute L-Test.

PART 3 is the test of instructional skill where the core competencies of identification, analysis, and rectification of faults are assessed in a very thorough way. This part of the qualifying exams is easily the toughest and currently has a pass rate of less than 33%!

The DSA CHECK TEST is a regular follow-up test by the DSA to ensure that instructors are maintaining a high level of quality instruction. At the check test the instructor is graded from 1 - 6 with Grade 6 being the highest possible standard. Your Smartdrive instructor is a Grade 5 working towards that elusive Grade 6!

If you are considering other driving schools please check whether your potential instructor is displaying a GREEN ADI licence in the windscreen of the car. This indicates that he or she - like your Smartdrive instructor - has made it through all three exams. A PINK licence in the windscreen means that this instructor is only part-qualified and is still training for PART 3 and may therefore not offer the best value for money. Displaying NO licence in the windscreen means it is illegal to offer paid instruction - the 'instructor' may not even be insured - AVOID!!