This part of the process is essentially an extended driving examination and usually lasts around 60 minutes. There are 5 parts to the approved driving instructor (ADI) part 2 test:
An eyesight check
In this part of the test you will need to read a registration plate from a distance of:
- 26.5 metres for vehicles with a new-style number plate
- 27.5 metres for vehicles with an old-style number plate
(New-style number plates start with 2 letters followed by 2 numbers, such as AB51 ABC.)
It is important to note that Failing the eyesight test will result in a failure of the ADI part 2 test and it will count as one of the three attempts allowed.
‘Show me, tell me’ vehicle safety questions
As part of the ADI practical test, you will be asked five vehicle safety questions known as the “show me, tell me” questions. The purpose of these questions is to test your knowledge of basic safety tasks related to the vehicle.
You will be asked:
- 3 “tell me” questions at the start of the test before you begin driving
- 2 “show me” questions while you are driving, for example, demonstrating how to wash the windscreen using the car controls and wipers
It is important to note if you give an incorrect answer to any of the questions, you will receive a driving fault. However, if you answer all 5 questions incorrectly or lose control of the car while answering any of the “show me” questions, you will receive a serious fault and fail the test.
General driving ability
During the ADI practical test, you will be required to demonstrate the following skills to the examiner:
- Proficient handling of the vehicle controls
- Proper use of road procedures
- Anticipation of the actions of other road users and taking appropriate action
- Sound judgement of distance, speed, and timing
- Consideration for the safety and convenience of other road users
- Eco-friendly driving practises
You will be tested on your driving abilities in various road and traffic conditions, including on motorways or dual carriageways where possible.
It is important to note that you might also be asked to carry out an emergency stop which you can practise and prepare for prior to your test.
Manoeuvres
The examiner will ask you to perform two of the following manoeuvres:
- Parallel parking on the side of the road
- Reversing into a parking bay and driving out
- Driving into a parking bay and reversing out
- Pulling over on the right-hand side of the road, reversing for about two car lengths, and re-entering traffic.
Independent driving
For this part of the test, you will be required to drive for approximately 20 minutes, following either:
- Directions from a satellite navigation device
- Traffic signs
The examiner will inform you which of the above options you will need to follow during the test.
How much does the test cost?
The ADI Part 2 Driving Ability test costs £111.
Book your test here on the government website: https://www.gov.uk/book-driving-test?step-by-step-nav=80bd32e4-9708-4214-bc0f-50358223bb09
What are the requirements needed to pass?
You’ll pass your approved driving instructor (ADI) part 2 test if you make:
- no more than 6 driving faults
- no serious or dangerous faults
After successfully passing part 2 you can apply for your trainee licence. This costs £140 and in order to apply for this you must have passed the approved diving training (ADI) Part 2 Test and have done a minimum of 40 hours of training with a qualified ADI.
When will I get my test result?
Your examiner will provide you with your results at the end of your test.
If you pass the examiner will advise you of any faults you made, if any and you will be given a copy of the driving test report.
If you fail the examiner will advise you of what faults you made throughout the test and then provide reasoning for why you did not pass. If you fail on either your first or second attempt you are eligible to take the test again. You will have to book another test and pay to take the test again.
What happens if I fail on my third attempt?
If you fail your ADI part 2 test on your third attempt you will need to retake and pass the ADI part 1 test again. You must wait 2 years from the date you first passed the ADI part 1 test before you are allowed to take it again.
What are my next steps once I pass my ADI part 2?
Once you pass your ADI part 2 test you can either:
- Book your ADI part 3 test
- Apply for a trainee driving instructor licence (pink badge)
Please note that a trainee driving instructor licence is recommended as it will help you prepare for your part 3 test.
