ADI Part 1

ADI Part 1: the theory test

The first step to becoming a driving instructor. It's harder than the learner theory test, but very passable with the right preparation.

Updated 14 November 2026 · DriveBox, built by a driving instructor teaching since 2012

The route at a glance

  1. Part 1Theory and hazard perception
  2. Part 2Driving ability
  3. Part 3Instructional ability
  4. RegisterGet your green ADI badge

How Part 1 works

Multiple choice100 questions in 90 minutes, split into four bands of 25. Some questions need more than one answer.
Pass mark85 out of 100 overall and at least 20 out of 25 in every band
Hazard perception14 video clips, up to 5 points per hazard. Pass mark: 57 out of 75.
Cost£81
BringYour photocard driving licence
Your pass lasts2 years, to pass Parts 2 and 3

You must pass both the multiple choice and hazard perception at the same sitting.

The four bands

  1. Road procedure
    The rules of the road, junctions, roundabouts, motorways and speed limits.
  2. Traffic signs and signals, car control, pedestrians and mechanical knowledge
    Signs and markings, vehicle control, vulnerable road users and how the car works.
  3. Driving test, disabilities and the law
    How the learner test works, teaching disabled pupils, licences, insurance and the legal side of instructing.
  4. Publications and instructional techniques
    The books and standards instructors work to, and how people learn.

The band rule catches people out: 90 overall won't save you if one band is 19. Practise all four evenly.

How to prepare

Try free ADI Part 1 practice questions

Built for new driving instructors

DriveBox Connect gives you a diary, card payments, pupil progress and new pupils by postcode from day one. DriveBox checks every ADI and PDI badge, and LearnLab includes PDI theory test practice. Free until March 2027.

Download DriveBox Connect on the App StoreGet DriveBox Connect on Google Play

More about the instructor app · RoadLab teaching board

Questions

What is the pass mark for the ADI Part 1 test?

At least 85 out of 100 in the multiple-choice part, with at least 20 out of 25 in each of the four bands, and at least 57 out of 75 in hazard perception.

How much does ADI Part 1 cost?

£81.

Is ADI Part 1 harder than the learner theory test?

Yes. There are twice as many questions, the pass mark is higher, and you need to know instructional techniques and the law as well as the rules of the road.

What happens if I pass one part but fail the other?

You have to pass both parts at the same sitting, so you'd need to take the whole test again.

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