ADI Part 2: Everything You Need to Know About the Driving Ability Test

So you've passed Part 1 — the hard theory work is behind you. Now comes Part 2: the practical driving test that proves you can actually drive to the standard expected of someone who's going to teach others. It's not just about being a decent driver. It's about being an exceptional one.

Here's everything you need to know.

What Is the ADI Part 2?

The Part 2 is a practical driving test assessed by a DVSA examiner. It sits in the middle of the three-part ADI qualification — after the theory (Part 1) and before the instructional ability test (Part 3). Passing it is a prerequisite for moving on.

Crucially, this is a test of your driving, not your teaching. You won't be explaining anything or coaching a pupil. You'll simply be expected to drive — but to a standard well above what's required for an ordinary driving licence.

How Long Does It Last?

The test lasts around one hour, not including time spent waiting at the test centre. Arrive early — missing your slot will almost certainly mean forfeiting your fee and rebooking.

What Happens During the Test?

The test is made up of five parts:

1. Eyesight Check

Before you move off, you'll need to read a number plate from a distance of 27 metres (new-style plates) or 27.5 metres (old-style). Fail this and the test ends immediately — and it counts as one of your three permitted attempts.

2. Show Me, Tell Me Questions

You'll be asked five vehicle safety questions. Three are answered verbally before you set off ("tell me"), and two are demonstrated while you're driving ("show me") — for example, using the windscreen washers while on the move. Each wrong answer earns a driving fault. Answer all five incorrectly, or lose control of the car during a show me question, and you'll receive a serious fault and fail.

3. General Driving Ability

This is the core of the test. You'll drive across a range of road and traffic conditions — including motorways or dual carriageways where possible — and must demonstrate:

• Expert handling of the controls

• Correct road procedure

• Sound judgement of distance, speed and timing

• Anticipation of other road users' actions

• Consideration for both the safety and convenience of others

• Environmentally-friendly driving

You may also be asked to carry out an emergency stop.

4. Manoeuvres

You'll be asked to complete two manoeuvres from the following options:

• Parallel park at the side of the road

• Reverse into a parking bay and drive out

• Drive into a parking bay and reverse out

• Pull up on the right, reverse two car lengths, then rejoin traffic

Unlike the standard learner test, you'll complete two — and to a higher standard.

5. Independent Driving

For around 20 minutes you'll drive without direction from the examiner, following either a sat nav (provided and set up by the examiner) or road signs. Taking a wrong turn won't fail you, as long as no fault is made in the process.

The Standard Required

This is where candidates — especially experienced drivers — can come unstuck. The DVSA benchmarks Part 2 against its national driving standard, documented in Safe and Responsible Driving (Category B). Familiarity can breed bad habits, and ingrained errors that feel natural after years behind the wheel are exactly what the examiner is trained to spot.

Eco-safe driving is also assessed. The DVSA's publication The Official DVSA Guide: Driving – the Essential Skills covers this in full and is recommended reading before the test.

How Faults Are Marked

The marking system mirrors the standard practical test, but with far less tolerance:

• Driving faults — minor errors that are not immediately dangerous. You're allowed up to six. Accumulate seven or more and you fail.

• Serious faults — potentially dangerous actions or omissions. One is enough to fail.

• Dangerous faults — involving actual danger to the examiner, candidate, other road users, or property. One is an automatic fail.

Importantly, repeatedly committing the same driving fault throughout the test — even if each individual instance seems minor — can be treated as a serious fault, demonstrating an inability to deal consistently with certain situations.

Common Faults to Watch For

These are the areas where candidates most often pick up marks:

• Junction observations — failing to take effective observation before emerging

• Mirror use — not checking mirrors at key moments when changing speed or direction

• Steering control — drifting or mounting kerbs

• Moving off — not checking blind spots before pulling away

• Road signs and markings — misreading or ignoring them, such as stopping beyond a stop line

Booking and Eligibility

To be eligible for Part 2, you must:

• Hold a full UK driving licence (held for at least 3 years)

• Have passed Part 1 within the last 2 years

• Have a completed DBS check

• Bring your own car to the test (taxed, insured, with a valid MOT — and no L-plates)

The test costs £111 and can be booked via GOV.UK in England, Wales and Scotland.

What Happens If You Don't Pass?

You have three attempts to pass Part 2. Fail all three and you'll need to restart the entire ADI qualification process from scratch — including Part 1. Take any examiner feedback seriously between attempts; it's detailed, actionable, and free.

What Happens If You Pass?

You'll receive a letter confirming your result and details on how to apply for the Part 3 instructional ability test. You'll also have the option to apply for a trainee (PDI) licence, which lets you start teaching real pupils for experience before you sit Part 3. It's worth considering — hands-on teaching time is invaluable preparation.

How to Prepare

• Complete mock tests with a qualified ADI trainer who knows the Part 2 standard

• Review your own driving honestly — video footage can highlight habits you're no longer aware of

• Focus on consistency, not just avoiding serious faults

• Read The Official DVSA Guide: Driving – the Essential Skills cover to cover

• Check your driving against the DVSA's Safe and Responsible Driving (Category B) national standard

The candidates who struggle are often those who've been driving confidently for years and assume that experience alone is enough. It isn't. Part 2 rewards deliberate, disciplined driving — and the preparation time you put in reflects directly in your result.

Thinking about beginning your ADI journey? Contact us today for a no obligation meeting to discuss your requirments and answer all your questions