Part 3 Test
The ADI Part 3 test is the third and final part of the qualifying process for becoming an Approved Driving Instructor (ADI).
It evaluates your instructional ability and teaching skills, and assesses your competence in providing driving lessons and guiding students effectively.
The test comprises a real lesson given to a pupil under supervision, and is roughly 45 minutes long. You can only sit this test if you’ve passed the ADI Part 2 test of driving ability.
The DVSA have designed both the Standards Check and Part 3 Test to assess 17 competences.
These are formed under 3 key areas
1. Lesson Planning (12 Points)
2. Risk Management (15 Points)
3. Teaching and Learning (24 Points)
You are marked on a scale 0 to 3 in each competence
In this section we explore the DVSA assessment criteria
Part 3 Test - Overview
The ADI Part 3 test is the third and final part of the qualifying process for becoming an Approved Driving Instructor (ADI).
It evaluates your instructional ability and teaching skills, and assesses your competence in providing driving lessons and guiding students effectively.
The test comprises a real lesson given to a pupil under supervision, and is roughly 45 minutes long. You can only sit this test if you’ve passed the ADI Part 2 test of driving ability.
The DVSA have designed both the Standards Check and Part 3 Test to assess 17 competences.
These are formed under 3 key areas
1. Lesson Planning (12 Points)
2. Risk Management (15 Points)
3. Teaching and Learning (24 Points)
You are marked on a scale 0 to 3 in each competence
In this section we explore the DVSA assessment criteria
Lesson Planning
Lesson planning, primarily for Part 3 tests or Standards Checks, focuses on client-centered instruction, identifying student needs, setting clear goals (e.g., judging speed, not just "roundabouts"), managing risk, and adapting plans dynamically, using the Q&A method, not just sticking rigidly to a script.
The examiner will see a portion of your lesson with this student. BEFORE the examiner enters the car, you must:
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Set a goal
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Agreed on a lesson plan that accommodates client preferences
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Selected an appropriate route/region
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Determined your duties and responsibilities in relation to the objective
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Discussed risk management
It is then your responsibility to summarise what you have talked with the examiner in no more than two to three minutes!
BEFORE the test starts, take your time with the goal setting/risk/roles and responsibilities, as there are no time constraints, but keep in mind that if this is not done correctly, it will become apparent as the course progresses! You will still be evaluated on ALL 17 COMPETENCIES!!
Please remember to avoid subjects such as controls lessons, moving off and stopping.
Manoeuvres: While a manoeuvre can be included in a lesson, it should not be the primary focus. The Examiner will confirm that the test will last 45 minutes, of which 40 minutes the wheels should ideally be turning. You can stop to discuss an issue with the learner, however this must be because your learner needs this time round discuss and reflect.
Risk Management
ADI Part 3 risk management is crucial for the driving instructor test, focusing on proactively maintaining safety for the pupil, instructor, and public by anticipating hazards, providing timely instructions, and ensuring the pupil understands their responsibilities, all while planning lessons to challenge them appropriately without overwhelming them. It involves "on the move" sharing responsibility and strong control of risk management with the learner, requiring clear communication, observation of surroundings and pupil actions, and the potential to use dual controls if a situation escalates, though prevention is the key skill.
Teaching and Learning
Effective teaching strategies focus on client-centred learning, adapting to different learning styles (visual, auditory, kinesthetic), managing risk, providing clear objectives, and offering tailored feedback, all while coaching the pupil to develop their own skills, not just instructing them. Key strategies involve using visual aids, role-playing, setting clear goals (like the 2-second rule for anticipation), and ensuring the pupil takes responsibility for risk, making the lesson engaging and effective.
Case Study
Success at the 1st attempt
Alisdair passed Part 3 at the first attempt. He says "The 2 most imortant things that got me through were:
A) Completing the full 40 hour training plan, including the home study which is vital to providing the underpinning knowledge and technical information need on lessons.
B) I also treated every lesson with learners like a Part 3 Test! You cant under estimate the amount of work needed to pass. Listen to your trainer!
Top Tip
Forget about Risk Management, yes controversial but the quickest way to simplify the assessment process. The industry is very good at over complicating the simple. So by simply focussing on a strong client centred plan implemented with effective teaching and coaching you will score highly on Risk criteria