I have signed up for my ADI part 3 test. My test was supposed to take place four days ago, but I was told it was cancelled due to bad weather. I received a letter saying my test will be in five days time at 9:00am, but I cannot make that time. Can I rebook my test for another time?

Your driving examiner will call you a few days before your test to agree:

Approved driving instructor (ADI) part 3 test

Booking your test

You can book your approved driving instructor (ADI) part 3 test when you’ve passed your ADI part 2 test.

It’s the last of 3 tests you have to pass to qualify as an ADI. It’s a test of your ability to teach pupils.

the start time with you

where you want the test to start from (either the driving test centre or somewhere within 5 minutes of the driving test centre)

The ADI part 3 test works differently in Northern Ireland.

The national standard for driver and rider training tells you everything you must be able to do to pass the test.

You can find driving instructor training if you need help to prepare for the test.

What to take to your test

You must bring:

your UK driving licence

a face covering, unless it’s not safe for you to wear one

a suitable car

a pupil

You should also bring a log of the training you’ve been doing to qualify as an approved driving instructor (ADI).

Your test will be cancelled and you will not get your money back if you do not take the right things with you.

Reasons why you must not go to your test

Do not go to your driving test if you or your pupil:

have coronavirus (COVID-19) symptoms, or someone you live with has symptoms

have been told by the NHS Test and Trace service that you’ve been in contact with a person who has COVID-19

are self-isolating because you recently entered the UK

Change your test appointment or cancel your test for free if you’re not able to go.

Wearing a face covering

You and your pupil must each bring and wear a face covering for your test, unless it’s not safe for you to do so. For example, because:

you have a physical or mental illness or impairment, or a disability

wearing it would cause you severe distress

You need to say if you cannot wear a face covering when you book your test. Otherwise, your test will be cancelled if you arrive without one.

You can take it off during your test if you need to avoid harm or injury.

Your driving licence

You need to apply for a replacement driving licence if you lose yours before your test. This could take up to 15 days to arrive.

If you do not have a photocard licence

Bring a valid passport and your paper licence, or your trainee driving instructor licence (if you have one).

If you have a licence from Northern Ireland

Bring the Northern Ireland photocard and paper counterpart.

Rules for the car you use

When you take your test, your car must:

be taxed

be insured for a driving test (check with your insurance company)

be roadworthy and have a current MOT (if it’s over 3 years old)

be a saloon, hatchback or estate car in good working condition - you cannot use a convertible

have full-size rear seats

have no warning lights showing, for example, the airbag warning light

have no tyre damage and the legal tread depth on each tyre - you cannot have a space-saver spare tyre fitted

be smoke-free - this means you cannot smoke in it just before or during the test

be able to reach at least 62mph and have an mph speedometer

have 4 wheels and a maximum authorised mass (MAM) of no more than 3,500 kg

The MAM is the limit on how much the car can weigh when it’s loaded. It’ll be in the car’s handbook.

Your test will be cancelled and you’ll have to pay again if your car does not meet the rules.

Coronavirus (COVID-19) safety

Because of COVID-19 you must clean the inside of your car before your test.

This means:

tidying any unnecessary items away from the dashboard, footwells, door pockets, cup holders and seats

wiping down the dashboard and car controls

The examiner will do an additional clean of some surfaces.

The car you use for your test must have at least one window open on each side throughout the test. Any combination of windows can be opened - for example, one from the front and one from the back. Wear clothing suitable for the weather.

Vehicle fittings and features

The car must have:

L-plates (‘L’ or ‘D’ plates in Wales) on the front and rear if your pupil is a learner

working rear seat belts

Dashcams and other cameras

You can use a camera fitted for insurance purposes, as long as it:

faces outside of the car and does not film the inside

does not record audio from inside the car

Vehicle features

You can use a car with:

an electronic parking brake

hill-start assist

Hire cars

You can take your test in a hire car if it’s fitted with dual controls and meets all the other rules.

Manual and automatic cars

If you have a manual licence, you can take the test in either a manual or automatic car. You’ll be able to train people in both types of car when you’ve qualified.

If you have an automatic licence, you must take the test in an automatic car. You’ll only be able to train people in an automatic car when you’ve qualified.

Cars with known safety faults

You cannot use one of the cars shown in the table unless you have proof that it’s safe. This is because these cars have been recalled for a safety reason.

You must bring the proof that it’s safe with you when you take your test.

Model | Reason for recall | Vehicles affected | Recall issue date

Citroen C1 | Steering failure | Vehicles built between 9 Sep 2014 and 15 Oct 2014, with vehicle identification numbers (VINs) between wF7xxxxxxER516105 and VF7xxxxxxER523367 | 28 Jun 2016

Peugeot 108 | Steering failure | Vehicles built between 9 Jun 2014 and 15 Oct 2014, with VINs between VF3xxxxxxER256527 and F3xxxxxxER017078 | 28 Jun 2016

Toyota Aygo | Steering failure | Vehicles built between 9 Jun 2014 and 15 Oct 2014, with VINs between JTDJGNEC#0N022080 and 0N026438, JTDJPNEC#0N002099 and 0N002100, JTDKGNEC#0N022186 and 0N031372, and JTDKPNEC#0N002083 and 0N002102 | 28 Jun 2016

Toyota Yaris | Potentially defective seat rail track and/or steering column mounting | Some models built between Jun 2005 and May 2010 (‘05’ to ‘10’ registration plates) | 9 Apr 2014

Vauxhall ADAM | Potential steering problem | VINs with last 8 digits between E6077301 to E6113446, and F6000001 to F6006544 | 29 Sep 2014

Vauxhall Corsa D | Potential steering problem | VINs with last 8 digits between E6071016 and E6118738, and E4181031 and E4308122 | 29 Sep 2014

Proof you need to bring to your test

You must bring proof that says one of the following:

the car was recalled and the recall work has been done

the car was recalled but did not need any work to be done

the car was not part of the recall

The proof must be either:

the recall letter or safety notice, stamped by the manufacturer or dealer

on official or headed notepaper from the manufacturer or a dealer

Your test will be cancelled and you could lose your fee if you do not bring the right proof.

What happens during the test

A Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) examiner will watch you give a client-centred driving lesson lasting about 45 minutes to one of your pupils.

Your pupil must drive for at least 40 minutes of the lesson.

At the start of the lesson, discuss the goals for the lesson and risk management with your pupil. Because of coronavirus (COVID-19), this should take no more than 3 minutes.

At the end of the lesson, give your pupil no more than 3 minutes to reflect on their performance.

The examiner will look for evidence that you meet the national standard for driver and rider training.

Your pupil

Your pupil can be a:

partly trained learner

fully trained learner

full licence holder

Your pupil cannot be:

a learner who has just started learning to drive

an approved driving instructor (ADI) or someone else who is preparing to take the ADI part 3 test

What you’ll be marked on

You’ll be marked on 17 areas of competence that are grouped into 3 categories:

lesson planning

risk management

teaching and learning strategies

The 17 areas of competence are listed in the ADI part 3 test report form, which the examiner will fill in at the end of your test.

You’ll get a score from 0 to 3 for each of the 17 competencies, which are added up to work out if you’ve passed the test, and what your grade will be.

Your test result

After you give the lesson, the examiner will discuss your performance and give you your result.

You’ll get your grade, along with your completed approved driving instructor (ADI) part 3 test report form.

Total score | Grade | Description

0-30 | Fail | Your performance is unsatisfactory, and you will not join the ADI register

31-42 | Grade B | You’ll be allowed to join the ADI register

43-51 | Grade A | You have shown a high standard of instruction and you’ll be allowed to join the ADI register

You’ll automatically fail if:

you get a score of 7 or less in the ‘risk management’ category

the examiner stops the lesson because you’ve put yourself or someone else in danger

If you pass

You can apply for your first ADI badge if you pass the ADI part 3 test.

You must apply within 12 months of passing the test, or you’ll have to pass all 3 qualifying tests again.

If you do not pass

You can take the test again if you fail the first or second attempt. You must book the next attempt within 2 years of passing your ADI part 1 test.

If you chose the extra training option (option 2) when you applied for your trainee licence, you must do 5 hours of extra training before you retake the test.

Failing the third attempt

You have to retake and pass the ADI part 1 test and ADI part 2 test again if you fail the ADI part 3 test at your third attempt.

You must wait 2 years from when you originally passed the ADI part 1 test before you can take it again.

Appeal your ADI part 3 test

You can appeal your test if you can prove that your examiner did not follow the law.

Read the guidance on appealing your test to check if your examiner followed the law.

If you have proof they did not follow the law you can complain to the Driver and Vehicle and Standards Agency (DVSA)

If DVSA agrees with your complaint, your test result cannot be changed but you might get a refund or a free retest.

If DVSA does not agree with your complaint you may be able to appeal to a court instead.

Appeal your test to a court

You can appeal if you can prove that your examiner did not follow the law when they carried out your test.

Your test result cannot be changed, but you might get a refund or a free retest if your appeal is successful.

You might have to pay significant legal costs if your appeal is unsuccessful.

You’ll need to appeal within:

6 months of your test in England and Wales

21 days of your test in Scotland

Check if you can appeal.

If your test is cancelled or there's bad weather

Your approved driving instructor (ADI) part 3 test can be cancelled or stopped because of bad weather, problems with your car, or for other reasons.

If your test is suspended due to coronavirus (COVID-19)

You’ll be sent a new date for your test if this happens. You can change the date if it’s not suitable.

You need to have passed a theory test in the last 2 years to take this test. Your theory test certificate will not be extended.

Bad weather

Tests are not carried out in dangerous weather conditions, such as when the roads are icy or if there’s flooding, thick fog or high winds.

Call your test centre if there are any of these conditions on the day of your test.

The phone number for the test centre is on your booking confirmation email.

If your test cannot go ahead

The Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) will:

automatically book the next available date for your test

send you the details within 3 working days - it can take up to 7 days if there’s a long period of bad weather

You can change the date you’re given if it’s not suitable.

You cannot claim for any out-of-pocket expenses if your test is cancelled because of bad weather.

Problems with you or your car

You’ll have to book another test and pay again if your test cannot be completed because of a problem with:

you, for example, if you feel unwell while taking your test

your car, for example, if it breaks down during the test or does not meet the rules to be used

If your test is cancelled for another reason

Sometimes DVSA has to cancel tests for other reasons, for example, if the examiner is unwell.

You can apply for a refund of out-of-pocket expenses if DVSA cancels your test at short notice.

the start time with you

Booking your test

You can book your approved driving instructor (ADI) part 3 test when you’ve passed your ADI part 2 test.

It’s the last of 3 tests you have to pass to qualify as an ADI. It’s a test of your ability to teach pupils.

Your driving examiner will call you a few days before your test to agree:

the start time with you

where you want the test to start from (either the driving test centre or somewhere within 5 minutes of the driving test centre)

The ADI part 3 test works differently in Northern Ireland.

The national standard for driver and rider training tells you everything you must be able to do to pass the test.

You can find driving instructor training if you need help to prepare for the test.

What to take to your test

You must bring:

your UK driving licence

a face covering, unless it’s not safe for you to wear one

a suitable car

a pupil

You should also bring a log of the training you’ve been doing to qualify as an approved driving instructor (ADI).

Your test will be cancelled and you will not get your money back if you do not take the right things with you.

Reasons why you must not go to your test

Do not go to your driving test if you or your pupil:

have coronavirus (COVID-19) symptoms, or someone you live with has symptoms

have been told by the NHS Test and Trace service that you’ve been in contact with a person who has COVID-19

are self-isolating because you recently entered the UK

Change your test appointment or cancel your test for free if you’re not able to go.

Wearing a face covering

You and your pupil must each bring and wear a face covering for your test, unless it’s not safe for you to do so. For example, because:

you have a physical or mental illness or impairment, or a disability

wearing it would cause you severe distress

You need to say if you cannot wear a face covering when you book your test. Otherwise, your test will be cancelled if you arrive without one.

You can take it off during your test if you need to avoid harm or injury.

Your driving licence

You need to apply for a replacement driving licence if you lose yours before your test. This could take up to 15 days to arrive.

If you do not have a photocard licence

Bring a valid passport and your paper licence, or your trainee driving instructor licence (if you have one).

If you have a licence from Northern Ireland

Bring the Northern Ireland photocard and paper counterpart.

Rules for the car you use

When you take your test, your car must:

be taxed

be insured for a driving test (check with your insurance company)

be roadworthy and have a current MOT (if it’s over 3 years old)

be a saloon, hatchback or estate car in good working condition - you cannot use a convertible

have full-size rear seats

have no warning lights showing, for example, the airbag warning light

have no tyre damage and the legal tread depth on each tyre - you cannot have a space-saver spare tyre fitted

be smoke-free - this means you cannot smoke in it just before or during the test

be able to reach at least 62mph and have an mph speedometer

have 4 wheels and a maximum authorised mass (MAM) of no more than 3,500 kg

The MAM is the limit on how much the car can weigh when it’s loaded. It’ll be in the car’s handbook.

Your test will be cancelled and you’ll have to pay again if your car does not meet the rules.

Coronavirus (COVID-19) safety

Because of COVID-19 you must clean the inside of your car before your test.

This means:

tidying any unnecessary items away from the dashboard, footwells, door pockets, cup holders and seats

wiping down the dashboard and car controls

The examiner will do an additional clean of some surfaces.

Vehicle fittings and features

The car must have:

L-plates (‘L’ or ‘D’ plates in Wales) on the front and rear if your pupil is a learner

working rear seat belts

Dashcams and other cameras

You can use a camera fitted for insurance purposes, as long as it:

faces outside of the car and does not film the inside

does not record audio from inside the car

Vehicle features

You can use a car with:

an electronic parking brake

hill-start assist

Hire cars

You can take your test in a hire car if it’s fitted with dual controls and meets all the other rules.

Manual and automatic cars

If you have an automatic licence, you must take the test in an automatic car. You’ll only be able to train people in an automatic car when you’ve qualified.

Cars with known safety faults

You cannot use one of the cars shown in the table unless you have proof that it’s safe. This is because these cars have been recalled for a safety reason.

You must bring the proof that it’s safe with you when you take your test.

Model | Reason for recall | Vehicles affected | Recall issue date

Peugeot 108 | Steering failure | Vehicles built between 9 Jun 2014 and 15 Oct 2014, with VINs between VF3xxxxxxER256527 and F3xxxxxxER017078 | 28 Jun 2016

Vauxhall ADAM | Potential steering problem | VINs with last 8 digits between E6077301 to E6113446, and F6000001 to F6006544 | 29 Sep 2014

Vauxhall Corsa D | Potential steering problem | VINs with last 8 digits between E6071016 and E6118738, and E4181031 and E4308122 | 29 Sep 2014

Proof you need to bring to your test

You must bring proof that says one of the following:

the car was recalled and the recall work has been done

the car was recalled but did not need any work to be done

the car was not part of the recall

The proof must be either:

the recall letter or safety notice, stamped by the manufacturer or dealer

on official or headed notepaper from the manufacturer or a dealer

Your test will be cancelled and you could lose your fee if you do not bring the right proof.

What happens during the test

A Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) examiner will watch you give a client-centred driving lesson lasting about 45 minutes to one of your pupils.

Your pupil must drive for at least 40 minutes of the lesson.

At the end of the lesson, give your pupil no more than 3 minutes to reflect on their performance.

The examiner will look for evidence that you meet the national standard for driver and rider training.

Your pupil

Your pupil can be a:

partly trained learner

fully trained learner

full licence holder

Your pupil cannot be:

a learner who has just started learning to drive

an approved driving instructor (ADI) or someone else who is preparing to take the ADI part 3 test

What you’ll be marked on

You’ll be marked on 17 areas of competence that are grouped into 3 categories:

lesson planning

risk management

teaching and learning strategies

The 17 areas of competence are listed in the ADI part 3 test report form, which the examiner will fill in at the end of your test.

You’ll get a score from 0 to 3 for each of the 17 competencies, which are added up to work out if you’ve passed the test, and what your grade will be.

Your test result

After you give the lesson, the examiner will discuss your performance and give you your result.

You’ll get your grade, along with your completed approved driving instructor (ADI) part 3 test report form.

Total score | Grade | Description

0-30 | Fail | Your performance is unsatisfactory, and you will not join the ADI register

31-42 | Grade B | You’ll be allowed to join the ADI register

43-51 | Grade A | You have shown a high standard of instruction and you’ll be allowed to join the ADI register

You’ll automatically fail if:

you get a score of 7 or less in the ‘risk management’ category

the examiner stops the lesson because you’ve put yourself or someone else in danger

If you pass

You can apply for your first ADI badge if you pass the ADI part 3 test.

You must apply within 12 months of passing the test, or you’ll have to pass all 3 qualifying tests again.

If you do not pass

You can take the test again if you fail the first or second attempt. You must book the next attempt within 2 years of passing your ADI part 1 test.

Failing the third attempt

You have to retake and pass the ADI part 1 test and ADI part 2 test again if you fail the ADI part 3 test at your third attempt.

You must wait 2 years from when you originally passed the ADI part 1 test before you can take it again.

Appeal your ADI part 3 test

You can appeal your test if you can prove that your examiner did not follow the law.

Read the guidance on appealing your test to check if your examiner followed the law.

If you have proof they did not follow the law you can complain to the Driver and Vehicle and Standards Agency (DVSA)

If DVSA agrees with your complaint, your test result cannot be changed but you might get a refund or a free retest.

If DVSA does not agree with your complaint you may be able to appeal to a court instead.

Appeal your test to a court

You can appeal if you can prove that your examiner did not follow the law when they carried out your test.

Your test result cannot be changed, but you might get a refund or a free retest if your appeal is successful.

You might have to pay significant legal costs if your appeal is unsuccessful.

You’ll need to appeal within:

6 months of your test in England and Wales

21 days of your test in Scotland

Check if you can appeal.

If your test is cancelled or there's bad weather

Your approved driving instructor (ADI) part 3 test can be cancelled or stopped because of bad weather, problems with your car, or for other reasons.

If your test is suspended due to coronavirus (COVID-19)

You’ll be sent a new date for your test if this happens. You can change the date if it’s not suitable.

You need to have passed a theory test in the last 2 years to take this test. Your theory test certificate will not be extended.

Bad weather

Tests are not carried out in dangerous weather conditions, such as when the roads are icy or if there’s flooding, thick fog or high winds.

Call your test centre if there are any of these conditions on the day of your test.

The phone number for the test centre is on your booking confirmation email.

If your test cannot go ahead

The Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) will:

automatically book the next available date for your test

send you the details within 3 working days - it can take up to 7 days if there’s a long period of bad weather

You can change the date you’re given if it’s not suitable.

You cannot claim for any out-of-pocket expenses if your test is cancelled because of bad weather.

Problems with you or your car

You’ll have to book another test and pay again if your test cannot be completed because of a problem with:

you, for example, if you feel unwell while taking your test

your car, for example, if it breaks down during the test or does not meet the rules to be used

If your test is cancelled for another reason

Sometimes DVSA has to cancel tests for other reasons, for example, if the examiner is unwell.

You can apply for a refund of out-of-pocket expenses if DVSA cancels your test at short notice.

where you want the test to start from (either the driving test centre or somewhere within 5 minutes of the driving test centre)

Booking your test

You can book your approved driving instructor (ADI) part 3 test when you’ve passed your ADI part 2 test.

It’s the last of 3 tests you have to pass to qualify as an ADI. It’s a test of your ability to teach pupils.

Your driving examiner will call you a few days before your test to agree:

the start time with you

The ADI part 3 test works differently in Northern Ireland.

The national standard for driver and rider training tells you everything you must be able to do to pass the test.

You can find driving instructor training if you need help to prepare for the test.

What to take to your test

You must bring:

your UK driving licence

a face covering, unless it’s not safe for you to wear one

a suitable car

a pupil

You should also bring a log of the training you’ve been doing to qualify as an approved driving instructor (ADI).

Your test will be cancelled and you will not get your money back if you do not take the right things with you.

Reasons why you must not go to your test

Do not go to your driving test if you or your pupil:

have coronavirus (COVID-19) symptoms, or someone you live with has symptoms

have been told by the NHS Test and Trace service that you’ve been in contact with a person who has COVID-19

are self-isolating because you recently entered the UK

Change your test appointment or cancel your test for free if you’re not able to go.

Wearing a face covering

You and your pupil must each bring and wear a face covering for your test, unless it’s not safe for you to do so. For example, because:

you have a physical or mental illness or impairment, or a disability

wearing it would cause you severe distress

You need to say if you cannot wear a face covering when you book your test. Otherwise, your test will be cancelled if you arrive without one.

You can take it off during your test if you need to avoid harm or injury.

Your driving licence

You need to apply for a replacement driving licence if you lose yours before your test. This could take up to 15 days to arrive.

If you do not have a photocard licence

Bring a valid passport and your paper licence, or your trainee driving instructor licence (if you have one).

If you have a licence from Northern Ireland

Bring the Northern Ireland photocard and paper counterpart.

Rules for the car you use

When you take your test, your car must:

be taxed

be insured for a driving test (check with your insurance company)

be roadworthy and have a current MOT (if it’s over 3 years old)

be a saloon, hatchback or estate car in good working condition - you cannot use a convertible

have full-size rear seats

have no warning lights showing, for example, the airbag warning light

have no tyre damage and the legal tread depth on each tyre - you cannot have a space-saver spare tyre fitted

be smoke-free - this means you cannot smoke in it just before or during the test

be able to reach at least 62mph and have an mph speedometer

have 4 wheels and a maximum authorised mass (MAM) of no more than 3,500 kg

The MAM is the limit on how much the car can weigh when it’s loaded. It’ll be in the car’s handbook.

Your test will be cancelled and you’ll have to pay again if your car does not meet the rules.

Coronavirus (COVID-19) safety

Because of COVID-19 you must clean the inside of your car before your test.

This means:

tidying any unnecessary items away from the dashboard, footwells, door pockets, cup holders and seats

wiping down the dashboard and car controls

The examiner will do an additional clean of some surfaces.

Vehicle fittings and features

The car must have:

L-plates (‘L’ or ‘D’ plates in Wales) on the front and rear if your pupil is a learner

working rear seat belts

Dashcams and other cameras

You can use a camera fitted for insurance purposes, as long as it:

faces outside of the car and does not film the inside

does not record audio from inside the car

Vehicle features

You can use a car with:

an electronic parking brake

hill-start assist

Hire cars

You can take your test in a hire car if it’s fitted with dual controls and meets all the other rules.

Manual and automatic cars

If you have an automatic licence, you must take the test in an automatic car. You’ll only be able to train people in an automatic car when you’ve qualified.

Cars with known safety faults

You cannot use one of the cars shown in the table unless you have proof that it’s safe. This is because these cars have been recalled for a safety reason.

You must bring the proof that it’s safe with you when you take your test.

Model | Reason for recall | Vehicles affected | Recall issue date

Peugeot 108 | Steering failure | Vehicles built between 9 Jun 2014 and 15 Oct 2014, with VINs between VF3xxxxxxER256527 and F3xxxxxxER017078 | 28 Jun 2016

Vauxhall ADAM | Potential steering problem | VINs with last 8 digits between E6077301 to E6113446, and F6000001 to F6006544 | 29 Sep 2014

Vauxhall Corsa D | Potential steering problem | VINs with last 8 digits between E6071016 and E6118738, and E4181031 and E4308122 | 29 Sep 2014

Proof you need to bring to your test

You must bring proof that says one of the following:

the car was recalled and the recall work has been done

the car was recalled but did not need any work to be done

the car was not part of the recall

The proof must be either:

the recall letter or safety notice, stamped by the manufacturer or dealer

on official or headed notepaper from the manufacturer or a dealer

Your test will be cancelled and you could lose your fee if you do not bring the right proof.

What happens during the test

A Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) examiner will watch you give a client-centred driving lesson lasting about 45 minutes to one of your pupils.

Your pupil must drive for at least 40 minutes of the lesson.

At the end of the lesson, give your pupil no more than 3 minutes to reflect on their performance.

The examiner will look for evidence that you meet the national standard for driver and rider training.

Your pupil

Your pupil can be a:

partly trained learner

fully trained learner

full licence holder

Your pupil cannot be:

a learner who has just started learning to drive

an approved driving instructor (ADI) or someone else who is preparing to take the ADI part 3 test

What you’ll be marked on

You’ll be marked on 17 areas of competence that are grouped into 3 categories:

lesson planning

risk management

teaching and learning strategies

The 17 areas of competence are listed in the ADI part 3 test report form, which the examiner will fill in at the end of your test.

You’ll get a score from 0 to 3 for each of the 17 competencies, which are added up to work out if you’ve passed the test, and what your grade will be.

Your test result

After you give the lesson, the examiner will discuss your performance and give you your result.

You’ll get your grade, along with your completed approved driving instructor (ADI) part 3 test report form.

Total score | Grade | Description

0-30 | Fail | Your performance is unsatisfactory, and you will not join the ADI register

31-42 | Grade B | You’ll be allowed to join the ADI register

43-51 | Grade A | You have shown a high standard of instruction and you’ll be allowed to join the ADI register

You’ll automatically fail if:

you get a score of 7 or less in the ‘risk management’ category

the examiner stops the lesson because you’ve put yourself or someone else in danger

If you pass

You can apply for your first ADI badge if you pass the ADI part 3 test.

You must apply within 12 months of passing the test, or you’ll have to pass all 3 qualifying tests again.

If you do not pass

You can take the test again if you fail the first or second attempt. You must book the next attempt within 2 years of passing your ADI part 1 test.

Failing the third attempt

You have to retake and pass the ADI part 1 test and ADI part 2 test again if you fail the ADI part 3 test at your third attempt.

You must wait 2 years from when you originally passed the ADI part 1 test before you can take it again.

Appeal your ADI part 3 test

You can appeal your test if you can prove that your examiner did not follow the law.

Read the guidance on appealing your test to check if your examiner followed the law.

If you have proof they did not follow the law you can complain to the Driver and Vehicle and Standards Agency (DVSA)

If DVSA agrees with your complaint, your test result cannot be changed but you might get a refund or a free retest.

If DVSA does not agree with your complaint you may be able to appeal to a court instead.

Appeal your test to a court

You can appeal if you can prove that your examiner did not follow the law when they carried out your test.

Your test result cannot be changed, but you might get a refund or a free retest if your appeal is successful.

You might have to pay significant legal costs if your appeal is unsuccessful.

You’ll need to appeal within:

6 months of your test in England and Wales

21 days of your test in Scotland

Check if you can appeal.

If your test is cancelled or there's bad weather

Your approved driving instructor (ADI) part 3 test can be cancelled or stopped because of bad weather, problems with your car, or for other reasons.

If your test is suspended due to coronavirus (COVID-19)

You’ll be sent a new date for your test if this happens. You can change the date if it’s not suitable.

You need to have passed a theory test in the last 2 years to take this test. Your theory test certificate will not be extended.

Bad weather

Tests are not carried out in dangerous weather conditions, such as when the roads are icy or if there’s flooding, thick fog or high winds.

Call your test centre if there are any of these conditions on the day of your test.

The phone number for the test centre is on your booking confirmation email.

If your test cannot go ahead

The Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) will:

automatically book the next available date for your test

send you the details within 3 working days - it can take up to 7 days if there’s a long period of bad weather

You can change the date you’re given if it’s not suitable.

You cannot claim for any out-of-pocket expenses if your test is cancelled because of bad weather.

Problems with you or your car

You’ll have to book another test and pay again if your test cannot be completed because of a problem with:

you, for example, if you feel unwell while taking your test

your car, for example, if it breaks down during the test or does not meet the rules to be used

If your test is cancelled for another reason

Sometimes DVSA has to cancel tests for other reasons, for example, if the examiner is unwell.

You can apply for a refund of out-of-pocket expenses if DVSA cancels your test at short notice.

Your approved driving instructor (ADI) part 3 test can be cancelled or stopped because of bad weather, problems with your car, or for other reasons.

Booking your test

You can book your approved driving instructor (ADI) part 3 test when you’ve passed your ADI part 2 test.

It’s the last of 3 tests you have to pass to qualify as an ADI. It’s a test of your ability to teach pupils.

Your driving examiner will call you a few days before your test to agree:

the start time with you

where you want the test to start from (either the driving test centre or somewhere within 5 minutes of the driving test centre)

The ADI part 3 test works differently in Northern Ireland.

The national standard for driver and rider training tells you everything you must be able to do to pass the test.

You can find driving instructor training if you need help to prepare for the test.

What to take to your test

You must bring:

your UK driving licence

a face covering, unless it’s not safe for you to wear one

a suitable car

a pupil

You should also bring a log of the training you’ve been doing to qualify as an approved driving instructor (ADI).

Your test will be cancelled and you will not get your money back if you do not take the right things with you.

Reasons why you must not go to your test

Do not go to your driving test if you or your pupil:

have coronavirus (COVID-19) symptoms, or someone you live with has symptoms

have been told by the NHS Test and Trace service that you’ve been in contact with a person who has COVID-19

are self-isolating because you recently entered the UK

Change your test appointment or cancel your test for free if you’re not able to go.

Wearing a face covering

You and your pupil must each bring and wear a face covering for your test, unless it’s not safe for you to do so. For example, because:

you have a physical or mental illness or impairment, or a disability

wearing it would cause you severe distress

You need to say if you cannot wear a face covering when you book your test. Otherwise, your test will be cancelled if you arrive without one.

You can take it off during your test if you need to avoid harm or injury.

Your driving licence

You need to apply for a replacement driving licence if you lose yours before your test. This could take up to 15 days to arrive.

If you do not have a photocard licence

Bring a valid passport and your paper licence, or your trainee driving instructor licence (if you have one).

If you have a licence from Northern Ireland

Bring the Northern Ireland photocard and paper counterpart.

Rules for the car you use

When you take your test, your car must:

be taxed

be insured for a driving test (check with your insurance company)

be roadworthy and have a current MOT (if it’s over 3 years old)

be a saloon, hatchback or estate car in good working condition - you cannot use a convertible

have full-size rear seats

have no warning lights showing, for example, the airbag warning light

have no tyre damage and the legal tread depth on each tyre - you cannot have a space-saver spare tyre fitted

be smoke-free - this means you cannot smoke in it just before or during the test

be able to reach at least 62mph and have an mph speedometer

have 4 wheels and a maximum authorised mass (MAM) of no more than 3,500 kg

The MAM is the limit on how much the car can weigh when it’s loaded. It’ll be in the car’s handbook.

Your test will be cancelled and you’ll have to pay again if your car does not meet the rules.

Coronavirus (COVID-19) safety

Because of COVID-19 you must clean the inside of your car before your test.

This means:

tidying any unnecessary items away from the dashboard, footwells, door pockets, cup holders and seats

wiping down the dashboard and car controls

The examiner will do an additional clean of some surfaces.

Vehicle fittings and features

The car must have:

L-plates (‘L’ or ‘D’ plates in Wales) on the front and rear if your pupil is a learner

working rear seat belts

Dashcams and other cameras

You can use a camera fitted for insurance purposes, as long as it:

faces outside of the car and does not film the inside

does not record audio from inside the car

Vehicle features

You can use a car with:

an electronic parking brake

hill-start assist

Hire cars

You can take your test in a hire car if it’s fitted with dual controls and meets all the other rules.

Manual and automatic cars

If you have an automatic licence, you must take the test in an automatic car. You’ll only be able to train people in an automatic car when you’ve qualified.

Cars with known safety faults

You cannot use one of the cars shown in the table unless you have proof that it’s safe. This is because these cars have been recalled for a safety reason.

You must bring the proof that it’s safe with you when you take your test.

Model | Reason for recall | Vehicles affected | Recall issue date

Peugeot 108 | Steering failure | Vehicles built between 9 Jun 2014 and 15 Oct 2014, with VINs between VF3xxxxxxER256527 and F3xxxxxxER017078 | 28 Jun 2016

Vauxhall ADAM | Potential steering problem | VINs with last 8 digits between E6077301 to E6113446, and F6000001 to F6006544 | 29 Sep 2014

Vauxhall Corsa D | Potential steering problem | VINs with last 8 digits between E6071016 and E6118738, and E4181031 and E4308122 | 29 Sep 2014

Proof you need to bring to your test

You must bring proof that says one of the following:

the car was recalled and the recall work has been done

the car was recalled but did not need any work to be done

the car was not part of the recall

The proof must be either:

the recall letter or safety notice, stamped by the manufacturer or dealer

on official or headed notepaper from the manufacturer or a dealer

Your test will be cancelled and you could lose your fee if you do not bring the right proof.

What happens during the test

A Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) examiner will watch you give a client-centred driving lesson lasting about 45 minutes to one of your pupils.

Your pupil must drive for at least 40 minutes of the lesson.

At the end of the lesson, give your pupil no more than 3 minutes to reflect on their performance.

The examiner will look for evidence that you meet the national standard for driver and rider training.

Your pupil

Your pupil can be a:

partly trained learner

fully trained learner

full licence holder

Your pupil cannot be:

a learner who has just started learning to drive

an approved driving instructor (ADI) or someone else who is preparing to take the ADI part 3 test

What you’ll be marked on

You’ll be marked on 17 areas of competence that are grouped into 3 categories:

lesson planning

risk management

teaching and learning strategies

The 17 areas of competence are listed in the ADI part 3 test report form, which the examiner will fill in at the end of your test.

You’ll get a score from 0 to 3 for each of the 17 competencies, which are added up to work out if you’ve passed the test, and what your grade will be.

Your test result

After you give the lesson, the examiner will discuss your performance and give you your result.

You’ll get your grade, along with your completed approved driving instructor (ADI) part 3 test report form.

Total score | Grade | Description

0-30 | Fail | Your performance is unsatisfactory, and you will not join the ADI register

31-42 | Grade B | You’ll be allowed to join the ADI register

43-51 | Grade A | You have shown a high standard of instruction and you’ll be allowed to join the ADI register

You’ll automatically fail if:

you get a score of 7 or less in the ‘risk management’ category

the examiner stops the lesson because you’ve put yourself or someone else in danger

If you pass

You can apply for your first ADI badge if you pass the ADI part 3 test.

You must apply within 12 months of passing the test, or you’ll have to pass all 3 qualifying tests again.

If you do not pass

You can take the test again if you fail the first or second attempt. You must book the next attempt within 2 years of passing your ADI part 1 test.

Failing the third attempt

You have to retake and pass the ADI part 1 test and ADI part 2 test again if you fail the ADI part 3 test at your third attempt.

You must wait 2 years from when you originally passed the ADI part 1 test before you can take it again.

Appeal your ADI part 3 test

You can appeal your test if you can prove that your examiner did not follow the law.

Read the guidance on appealing your test to check if your examiner followed the law.

If you have proof they did not follow the law you can complain to the Driver and Vehicle and Standards Agency (DVSA)

If DVSA agrees with your complaint, your test result cannot be changed but you might get a refund or a free retest.

If DVSA does not agree with your complaint you may be able to appeal to a court instead.

Appeal your test to a court

You can appeal if you can prove that your examiner did not follow the law when they carried out your test.

Your test result cannot be changed, but you might get a refund or a free retest if your appeal is successful.

You might have to pay significant legal costs if your appeal is unsuccessful.

You’ll need to appeal within:

6 months of your test in England and Wales

21 days of your test in Scotland

Check if you can appeal.

If your test is cancelled or there's bad weather

Your approved driving instructor (ADI) part 3 test can be cancelled or stopped because of bad weather, problems with your car, or for other reasons.

If your test is suspended due to coronavirus (COVID-19)

You’ll be sent a new date for your test if this happens. You can change the date if it’s not suitable.

You need to have passed a theory test in the last 2 years to take this test. Your theory test certificate will not be extended.

Bad weather

Tests are not carried out in dangerous weather conditions, such as when the roads are icy or if there’s flooding, thick fog or high winds.

Call your test centre if there are any of these conditions on the day of your test.

The phone number for the test centre is on your booking confirmation email.

If your test cannot go ahead

The Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) will:

automatically book the next available date for your test

send you the details within 3 working days - it can take up to 7 days if there’s a long period of bad weather

You can change the date you’re given if it’s not suitable.

You cannot claim for any out-of-pocket expenses if your test is cancelled because of bad weather.

Problems with you or your car

You’ll have to book another test and pay again if your test cannot be completed because of a problem with:

you, for example, if you feel unwell while taking your test

your car, for example, if it breaks down during the test or does not meet the rules to be used

If your test is cancelled for another reason

Sometimes DVSA has to cancel tests for other reasons, for example, if the examiner is unwell.

You can apply for a refund of out-of-pocket expenses if DVSA cancels your test at short notice.

If your test cannot go ahead

Booking your test

You can book your approved driving instructor (ADI) part 3 test when you’ve passed your ADI part 2 test.

It’s the last of 3 tests you have to pass to qualify as an ADI. It’s a test of your ability to teach pupils.

Your driving examiner will call you a few days before your test to agree:

the start time with you

where you want the test to start from (either the driving test centre or somewhere within 5 minutes of the driving test centre)

The ADI part 3 test works differently in Northern Ireland.

The national standard for driver and rider training tells you everything you must be able to do to pass the test.

You can find driving instructor training if you need help to prepare for the test.

What to take to your test

You must bring:

your UK driving licence

a face covering, unless it’s not safe for you to wear one

a suitable car

a pupil

You should also bring a log of the training you’ve been doing to qualify as an approved driving instructor (ADI).

Your test will be cancelled and you will not get your money back if you do not take the right things with you.

Reasons why you must not go to your test

Do not go to your driving test if you or your pupil:

have coronavirus (COVID-19) symptoms, or someone you live with has symptoms

have been told by the NHS Test and Trace service that you’ve been in contact with a person who has COVID-19

are self-isolating because you recently entered the UK

Change your test appointment or cancel your test for free if you’re not able to go.

Wearing a face covering

You and your pupil must each bring and wear a face covering for your test, unless it’s not safe for you to do so. For example, because:

you have a physical or mental illness or impairment, or a disability

wearing it would cause you severe distress

You need to say if you cannot wear a face covering when you book your test. Otherwise, your test will be cancelled if you arrive without one.

You can take it off during your test if you need to avoid harm or injury.

Your driving licence

You need to apply for a replacement driving licence if you lose yours before your test. This could take up to 15 days to arrive.

If you do not have a photocard licence

Bring a valid passport and your paper licence, or your trainee driving instructor licence (if you have one).

If you have a licence from Northern Ireland

Bring the Northern Ireland photocard and paper counterpart.

Rules for the car you use

When you take your test, your car must:

be taxed

be insured for a driving test (check with your insurance company)

be roadworthy and have a current MOT (if it’s over 3 years old)

be a saloon, hatchback or estate car in good working condition - you cannot use a convertible

have full-size rear seats

have no warning lights showing, for example, the airbag warning light

have no tyre damage and the legal tread depth on each tyre - you cannot have a space-saver spare tyre fitted

be smoke-free - this means you cannot smoke in it just before or during the test

be able to reach at least 62mph and have an mph speedometer

have 4 wheels and a maximum authorised mass (MAM) of no more than 3,500 kg

The MAM is the limit on how much the car can weigh when it’s loaded. It’ll be in the car’s handbook.

Your test will be cancelled and you’ll have to pay again if your car does not meet the rules.

Coronavirus (COVID-19) safety

Because of COVID-19 you must clean the inside of your car before your test.

This means:

tidying any unnecessary items away from the dashboard, footwells, door pockets, cup holders and seats

wiping down the dashboard and car controls

The examiner will do an additional clean of some surfaces.

Vehicle fittings and features

The car must have:

L-plates (‘L’ or ‘D’ plates in Wales) on the front and rear if your pupil is a learner

working rear seat belts

Dashcams and other cameras

You can use a camera fitted for insurance purposes, as long as it:

faces outside of the car and does not film the inside

does not record audio from inside the car

Vehicle features

You can use a car with:

an electronic parking brake

hill-start assist

Hire cars

You can take your test in a hire car if it’s fitted with dual controls and meets all the other rules.

Manual and automatic cars

If you have an automatic licence, you must take the test in an automatic car. You’ll only be able to train people in an automatic car when you’ve qualified.

Cars with known safety faults

You cannot use one of the cars shown in the table unless you have proof that it’s safe. This is because these cars have been recalled for a safety reason.

You must bring the proof that it’s safe with you when you take your test.

Model | Reason for recall | Vehicles affected | Recall issue date

Peugeot 108 | Steering failure | Vehicles built between 9 Jun 2014 and 15 Oct 2014, with VINs between VF3xxxxxxER256527 and F3xxxxxxER017078 | 28 Jun 2016

Vauxhall ADAM | Potential steering problem | VINs with last 8 digits between E6077301 to E6113446, and F6000001 to F6006544 | 29 Sep 2014

Vauxhall Corsa D | Potential steering problem | VINs with last 8 digits between E6071016 and E6118738, and E4181031 and E4308122 | 29 Sep 2014

Proof you need to bring to your test

You must bring proof that says one of the following:

the car was recalled and the recall work has been done

the car was recalled but did not need any work to be done

the car was not part of the recall

The proof must be either:

the recall letter or safety notice, stamped by the manufacturer or dealer

on official or headed notepaper from the manufacturer or a dealer

Your test will be cancelled and you could lose your fee if you do not bring the right proof.

What happens during the test

A Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) examiner will watch you give a client-centred driving lesson lasting about 45 minutes to one of your pupils.

Your pupil must drive for at least 40 minutes of the lesson.

At the end of the lesson, give your pupil no more than 3 minutes to reflect on their performance.

The examiner will look for evidence that you meet the national standard for driver and rider training.

Your pupil

Your pupil can be a:

partly trained learner

fully trained learner

full licence holder

Your pupil cannot be:

a learner who has just started learning to drive

an approved driving instructor (ADI) or someone else who is preparing to take the ADI part 3 test

What you’ll be marked on

You’ll be marked on 17 areas of competence that are grouped into 3 categories:

lesson planning

risk management

teaching and learning strategies

The 17 areas of competence are listed in the ADI part 3 test report form, which the examiner will fill in at the end of your test.

You’ll get a score from 0 to 3 for each of the 17 competencies, which are added up to work out if you’ve passed the test, and what your grade will be.

Your test result

After you give the lesson, the examiner will discuss your performance and give you your result.

You’ll get your grade, along with your completed approved driving instructor (ADI) part 3 test report form.

Total score | Grade | Description

0-30 | Fail | Your performance is unsatisfactory, and you will not join the ADI register

31-42 | Grade B | You’ll be allowed to join the ADI register

43-51 | Grade A | You have shown a high standard of instruction and you’ll be allowed to join the ADI register

You’ll automatically fail if:

you get a score of 7 or less in the ‘risk management’ category

the examiner stops the lesson because you’ve put yourself or someone else in danger

If you pass

You can apply for your first ADI badge if you pass the ADI part 3 test.

You must apply within 12 months of passing the test, or you’ll have to pass all 3 qualifying tests again.

If you do not pass

You can take the test again if you fail the first or second attempt. You must book the next attempt within 2 years of passing your ADI part 1 test.

Failing the third attempt

You have to retake and pass the ADI part 1 test and ADI part 2 test again if you fail the ADI part 3 test at your third attempt.

You must wait 2 years from when you originally passed the ADI part 1 test before you can take it again.

Appeal your ADI part 3 test

You can appeal your test if you can prove that your examiner did not follow the law.

Read the guidance on appealing your test to check if your examiner followed the law.

If you have proof they did not follow the law you can complain to the Driver and Vehicle and Standards Agency (DVSA)

If DVSA agrees with your complaint, your test result cannot be changed but you might get a refund or a free retest.

If DVSA does not agree with your complaint you may be able to appeal to a court instead.

Appeal your test to a court

You can appeal if you can prove that your examiner did not follow the law when they carried out your test.

Your test result cannot be changed, but you might get a refund or a free retest if your appeal is successful.

You might have to pay significant legal costs if your appeal is unsuccessful.

You’ll need to appeal within:

6 months of your test in England and Wales

21 days of your test in Scotland

Check if you can appeal.

If your test is cancelled or there's bad weather

Your approved driving instructor (ADI) part 3 test can be cancelled or stopped because of bad weather, problems with your car, or for other reasons.

If your test is suspended due to coronavirus (COVID-19)

You’ll be sent a new date for your test if this happens. You can change the date if it’s not suitable.

You need to have passed a theory test in the last 2 years to take this test. Your theory test certificate will not be extended.

Bad weather

Tests are not carried out in dangerous weather conditions, such as when the roads are icy or if there’s flooding, thick fog or high winds.

Call your test centre if there are any of these conditions on the day of your test.

The phone number for the test centre is on your booking confirmation email.

If your test cannot go ahead

The Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) will:

automatically book the next available date for your test

send you the details within 3 working days - it can take up to 7 days if there’s a long period of bad weather

You can change the date you’re given if it’s not suitable.

You cannot claim for any out-of-pocket expenses if your test is cancelled because of bad weather.

Problems with you or your car

You’ll have to book another test and pay again if your test cannot be completed because of a problem with:

you, for example, if you feel unwell while taking your test

your car, for example, if it breaks down during the test or does not meet the rules to be used

If your test is cancelled for another reason

Sometimes DVSA has to cancel tests for other reasons, for example, if the examiner is unwell.

You can apply for a refund of out-of-pocket expenses if DVSA cancels your test at short notice.

Booking your test

You can book your approved driving instructor (ADI) part 3 test when you’ve passed your ADI part 2 test.

It’s the last of 3 tests you have to pass to qualify as an ADI. It’s a test of your ability to teach pupils.

Your driving examiner will call you a few days before your test to agree:

the start time with you

where you want the test to start from (either the driving test centre or somewhere within 5 minutes of the driving test centre)

The ADI part 3 test works differently in Northern Ireland.

The national standard for driver and rider training tells you everything you must be able to do to pass the test.

You can find driving instructor training if you need help to prepare for the test.

What to take to your test

You must bring:

your UK driving licence

a face covering, unless it’s not safe for you to wear one

a suitable car

a pupil

You should also bring a log of the training you’ve been doing to qualify as an approved driving instructor (ADI).

Your test will be cancelled and you will not get your money back if you do not take the right things with you.

Reasons why you must not go to your test

Do not go to your driving test if you or your pupil:

have coronavirus (COVID-19) symptoms, or someone you live with has symptoms

have been told by the NHS Test and Trace service that you’ve been in contact with a person who has COVID-19

are self-isolating because you recently entered the UK

Change your test appointment or cancel your test for free if you’re not able to go.

Wearing a face covering

You and your pupil must each bring and wear a face covering for your test, unless it’s not safe for you to do so. For example, because:

you have a physical or mental illness or impairment, or a disability

wearing it would cause you severe distress

You need to say if you cannot wear a face covering when you book your test. Otherwise, your test will be cancelled if you arrive without one.

You can take it off during your test if you need to avoid harm or injury.

Your driving licence

You need to apply for a replacement driving licence if you lose yours before your test. This could take up to 15 days to arrive.

If you do not have a photocard licence

Bring a valid passport and your paper licence, or your trainee driving instructor licence (if you have one).

If you have a licence from Northern Ireland

Bring the Northern Ireland photocard and paper counterpart.

Rules for the car you use

When you take your test, your car must:

be taxed

be insured for a driving test (check with your insurance company)

be roadworthy and have a current MOT (if it’s over 3 years old)

be a saloon, hatchback or estate car in good working condition - you cannot use a convertible

have full-size rear seats

have no warning lights showing, for example, the airbag warning light

have no tyre damage and the legal tread depth on each tyre - you cannot have a space-saver spare tyre fitted

be smoke-free - this means you cannot smoke in it just before or during the test

be able to reach at least 62mph and have an mph speedometer

have 4 wheels and a maximum authorised mass (MAM) of no more than 3,500 kg

The MAM is the limit on how much the car can weigh when it’s loaded. It’ll be in the car’s handbook.

Your test will be cancelled and you’ll have to pay again if your car does not meet the rules.

Coronavirus (COVID-19) safety

Because of COVID-19 you must clean the inside of your car before your test.

This means:

tidying any unnecessary items away from the dashboard, footwells, door pockets, cup holders and seats

wiping down the dashboard and car controls

The examiner will do an additional clean of some surfaces.

Vehicle fittings and features

The car must have:

L-plates (‘L’ or ‘D’ plates in Wales) on the front and rear if your pupil is a learner

working rear seat belts

Dashcams and other cameras

You can use a camera fitted for insurance purposes, as long as it:

faces outside of the car and does not film the inside

does not record audio from inside the car

Vehicle features

You can use a car with:

an electronic parking brake

hill-start assist

Hire cars

You can take your test in a hire car if it’s fitted with dual controls and meets all the other rules.

Manual and automatic cars

If you have an automatic licence, you must take the test in an automatic car. You’ll only be able to train people in an automatic car when you’ve qualified.

Cars with known safety faults

You cannot use one of the cars shown in the table unless you have proof that it’s safe. This is because these cars have been recalled for a safety reason.

You must bring the proof that it’s safe with you when you take your test.

Model | Reason for recall | Vehicles affected | Recall issue date

Peugeot 108 | Steering failure | Vehicles built between 9 Jun 2014 and 15 Oct 2014, with VINs between VF3xxxxxxER256527 and F3xxxxxxER017078 | 28 Jun 2016

Vauxhall ADAM | Potential steering problem | VINs with last 8 digits between E6077301 to E6113446, and F6000001 to F6006544 | 29 Sep 2014

Vauxhall Corsa D | Potential steering problem | VINs with last 8 digits between E6071016 and E6118738, and E4181031 and E4308122 | 29 Sep 2014

Proof you need to bring to your test

You must bring proof that says one of the following:

the car was recalled and the recall work has been done

the car was recalled but did not need any work to be done

the car was not part of the recall

The proof must be either:

the recall letter or safety notice, stamped by the manufacturer or dealer

on official or headed notepaper from the manufacturer or a dealer

Your test will be cancelled and you could lose your fee if you do not bring the right proof.

What happens during the test

A Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) examiner will watch you give a client-centred driving lesson lasting about 45 minutes to one of your pupils.

Your pupil must drive for at least 40 minutes of the lesson.

At the end of the lesson, give your pupil no more than 3 minutes to reflect on their performance.

The examiner will look for evidence that you meet the national standard for driver and rider training.

Your pupil

Your pupil can be a:

partly trained learner

fully trained learner

full licence holder

Your pupil cannot be:

a learner who has just started learning to drive

an approved driving instructor (ADI) or someone else who is preparing to take the ADI part 3 test

What you’ll be marked on

You’ll be marked on 17 areas of competence that are grouped into 3 categories:

lesson planning

risk management

teaching and learning strategies

The 17 areas of competence are listed in the ADI part 3 test report form, which the examiner will fill in at the end of your test.

You’ll get a score from 0 to 3 for each of the 17 competencies, which are added up to work out if you’ve passed the test, and what your grade will be.

Your test result

After you give the lesson, the examiner will discuss your performance and give you your result.

You’ll get your grade, along with your completed approved driving instructor (ADI) part 3 test report form.

Total score | Grade | Description

0-30 | Fail | Your performance is unsatisfactory, and you will not join the ADI register

31-42 | Grade B | You’ll be allowed to join the ADI register

43-51 | Grade A | You have shown a high standard of instruction and you’ll be allowed to join the ADI register

You’ll automatically fail if:

you get a score of 7 or less in the ‘risk management’ category

the examiner stops the lesson because you’ve put yourself or someone else in danger

If you pass

You can apply for your first ADI badge if you pass the ADI part 3 test.

You must apply within 12 months of passing the test, or you’ll have to pass all 3 qualifying tests again.

If you do not pass

You can take the test again if you fail the first or second attempt. You must book the next attempt within 2 years of passing your ADI part 1 test.

Failing the third attempt

You have to retake and pass the ADI part 1 test and ADI part 2 test again if you fail the ADI part 3 test at your third attempt.

You must wait 2 years from when you originally passed the ADI part 1 test before you can take it again.

Appeal your ADI part 3 test

You can appeal your test if you can prove that your examiner did not follow the law.

Read the guidance on appealing your test to check if your examiner followed the law.

If you have proof they did not follow the law you can complain to the Driver and Vehicle and Standards Agency (DVSA)

If DVSA agrees with your complaint, your test result cannot be changed but you might get a refund or a free retest.

If DVSA does not agree with your complaint you may be able to appeal to a court instead.

Appeal your test to a court

You can appeal if you can prove that your examiner did not follow the law when they carried out your test.

Your test result cannot be changed, but you might get a refund or a free retest if your appeal is successful.

You might have to pay significant legal costs if your appeal is unsuccessful.

You’ll need to appeal within:

6 months of your test in England and Wales

21 days of your test in Scotland

Check if you can appeal.

If your test is cancelled or there's bad weather

Your approved driving instructor (ADI) part 3 test can be cancelled or stopped because of bad weather, problems with your car, or for other reasons.

If your test is suspended due to coronavirus (COVID-19)

You’ll be sent a new date for your test if this happens. You can change the date if it’s not suitable.

You need to have passed a theory test in the last 2 years to take this test. Your theory test certificate will not be extended.

Bad weather

Tests are not carried out in dangerous weather conditions, such as when the roads are icy or if there’s flooding, thick fog or high winds.

Call your test centre if there are any of these conditions on the day of your test.

The phone number for the test centre is on your booking confirmation email.

If your test cannot go ahead

The Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) will:

automatically book the next available date for your test

send you the details within 3 working days - it can take up to 7 days if there’s a long period of bad weather

You can change the date you’re given if it’s not suitable.

You cannot claim for any out-of-pocket expenses if your test is cancelled because of bad weather.

Problems with you or your car

You’ll have to book another test and pay again if your test cannot be completed because of a problem with:

you, for example, if you feel unwell while taking your test

your car, for example, if it breaks down during the test or does not meet the rules to be used

If your test is cancelled for another reason

Sometimes DVSA has to cancel tests for other reasons, for example, if the examiner is unwell.

You can apply for a refund of out-of-pocket expenses if DVSA cancels your test at short notice.

Booking your test

You can book your approved driving instructor (ADI) part 3 test when you’ve passed your ADI part 2 test.

It’s the last of 3 tests you have to pass to qualify as an ADI. It’s a test of your ability to teach pupils.

Your driving examiner will call you a few days before your test to agree:

the start time with you

where you want the test to start from (either the driving test centre or somewhere within 5 minutes of the driving test centre)

The ADI part 3 test works differently in Northern Ireland.

The national standard for driver and rider training tells you everything you must be able to do to pass the test.

You can find driving instructor training if you need help to prepare for the test.

What to take to your test

You must bring:

your UK driving licence

a face covering, unless it’s not safe for you to wear one

a suitable car

a pupil

You should also bring a log of the training you’ve been doing to qualify as an approved driving instructor (ADI).

Your test will be cancelled and you will not get your money back if you do not take the right things with you.

Reasons why you must not go to your test

Do not go to your driving test if you or your pupil:

have coronavirus (COVID-19) symptoms, or someone you live with has symptoms

have been told by the NHS Test and Trace service that you’ve been in contact with a person who has COVID-19

are self-isolating because you recently entered the UK

Change your test appointment or cancel your test for free if you’re not able to go.

Wearing a face covering

You and your pupil must each bring and wear a face covering for your test, unless it’s not safe for you to do so. For example, because:

you have a physical or mental illness or impairment, or a disability

wearing it would cause you severe distress

You need to say if you cannot wear a face covering when you book your test. Otherwise, your test will be cancelled if you arrive without one.

You can take it off during your test if you need to avoid harm or injury.

Your driving licence

You need to apply for a replacement driving licence if you lose yours before your test. This could take up to 15 days to arrive.

If you do not have a photocard licence

Bring a valid passport and your paper licence, or your trainee driving instructor licence (if you have one).

If you have a licence from Northern Ireland

Bring the Northern Ireland photocard and paper counterpart.

Rules for the car you use

When you take your test, your car must:

be taxed

be insured for a driving test (check with your insurance company)

be roadworthy and have a current MOT (if it’s over 3 years old)

be a saloon, hatchback or estate car in good working condition - you cannot use a convertible

have full-size rear seats

have no warning lights showing, for example, the airbag warning light

have no tyre damage and the legal tread depth on each tyre - you cannot have a space-saver spare tyre fitted

be smoke-free - this means you cannot smoke in it just before or during the test

be able to reach at least 62mph and have an mph speedometer

have 4 wheels and a maximum authorised mass (MAM) of no more than 3,500 kg

The MAM is the limit on how much the car can weigh when it’s loaded. It’ll be in the car’s handbook.

Your test will be cancelled and you’ll have to pay again if your car does not meet the rules.

Coronavirus (COVID-19) safety

Because of COVID-19 you must clean the inside of your car before your test.

This means:

tidying any unnecessary items away from the dashboard, footwells, door pockets, cup holders and seats

wiping down the dashboard and car controls

The examiner will do an additional clean of some surfaces.

Vehicle fittings and features

The car must have:

L-plates (‘L’ or ‘D’ plates in Wales) on the front and rear if your pupil is a learner

working rear seat belts

Dashcams and other cameras

You can use a camera fitted for insurance purposes, as long as it:

faces outside of the car and does not film the inside

does not record audio from inside the car

Vehicle features

You can use a car with:

an electronic parking brake

hill-start assist

Hire cars

You can take your test in a hire car if it’s fitted with dual controls and meets all the other rules.

Manual and automatic cars

If you have an automatic licence, you must take the test in an automatic car. You’ll only be able to train people in an automatic car when you’ve qualified.

Cars with known safety faults

You cannot use one of the cars shown in the table unless you have proof that it’s safe. This is because these cars have been recalled for a safety reason.

You must bring the proof that it’s safe with you when you take your test.

Model | Reason for recall | Vehicles affected | Recall issue date

Peugeot 108 | Steering failure | Vehicles built between 9 Jun 2014 and 15 Oct 2014, with VINs between VF3xxxxxxER256527 and F3xxxxxxER017078 | 28 Jun 2016

Vauxhall ADAM | Potential steering problem | VINs with last 8 digits between E6077301 to E6113446, and F6000001 to F6006544 | 29 Sep 2014

Vauxhall Corsa D | Potential steering problem | VINs with last 8 digits between E6071016 and E6118738, and E4181031 and E4308122 | 29 Sep 2014

Proof you need to bring to your test

You must bring proof that says one of the following:

the car was recalled and the recall work has been done

the car was recalled but did not need any work to be done

the car was not part of the recall

The proof must be either:

the recall letter or safety notice, stamped by the manufacturer or dealer

on official or headed notepaper from the manufacturer or a dealer

Your test will be cancelled and you could lose your fee if you do not bring the right proof.

What happens during the test

A Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) examiner will watch you give a client-centred driving lesson lasting about 45 minutes to one of your pupils.

Your pupil must drive for at least 40 minutes of the lesson.

At the end of the lesson, give your pupil no more than 3 minutes to reflect on their performance.

The examiner will look for evidence that you meet the national standard for driver and rider training.

Your pupil

Your pupil can be a:

partly trained learner

fully trained learner

full licence holder

Your pupil cannot be:

a learner who has just started learning to drive

an approved driving instructor (ADI) or someone else who is preparing to take the ADI part 3 test

What you’ll be marked on

You’ll be marked on 17 areas of competence that are grouped into 3 categories:

lesson planning

risk management

teaching and learning strategies

The 17 areas of competence are listed in the ADI part 3 test report form, which the examiner will fill in at the end of your test.

You’ll get a score from 0 to 3 for each of the 17 competencies, which are added up to work out if you’ve passed the test, and what your grade will be.

Your test result

After you give the lesson, the examiner will discuss your performance and give you your result.

You’ll get your grade, along with your completed approved driving instructor (ADI) part 3 test report form.

Total score | Grade | Description

0-30 | Fail | Your performance is unsatisfactory, and you will not join the ADI register

31-42 | Grade B | You’ll be allowed to join the ADI register

43-51 | Grade A | You have shown a high standard of instruction and you’ll be allowed to join the ADI register

You’ll automatically fail if:

you get a score of 7 or less in the ‘risk management’ category

the examiner stops the lesson because you’ve put yourself or someone else in danger

If you pass

You can apply for your first ADI badge if you pass the ADI part 3 test.

You must apply within 12 months of passing the test, or you’ll have to pass all 3 qualifying tests again.

If you do not pass

You can take the test again if you fail the first or second attempt. You must book the next attempt within 2 years of passing your ADI part 1 test.

Failing the third attempt

You have to retake and pass the ADI part 1 test and ADI part 2 test again if you fail the ADI part 3 test at your third attempt.

You must wait 2 years from when you originally passed the ADI part 1 test before you can take it again.

Appeal your ADI part 3 test

You can appeal your test if you can prove that your examiner did not follow the law.

Read the guidance on appealing your test to check if your examiner followed the law.

If you have proof they did not follow the law you can complain to the Driver and Vehicle and Standards Agency (DVSA)

If DVSA agrees with your complaint, your test result cannot be changed but you might get a refund or a free retest.

If DVSA does not agree with your complaint you may be able to appeal to a court instead.

Appeal your test to a court

You can appeal if you can prove that your examiner did not follow the law when they carried out your test.

Your test result cannot be changed, but you might get a refund or a free retest if your appeal is successful.

You might have to pay significant legal costs if your appeal is unsuccessful.

You’ll need to appeal within:

6 months of your test in England and Wales

21 days of your test in Scotland

Check if you can appeal.

If your test is cancelled or there's bad weather

Your approved driving instructor (ADI) part 3 test can be cancelled or stopped because of bad weather, problems with your car, or for other reasons.

If your test is suspended due to coronavirus (COVID-19)

You’ll be sent a new date for your test if this happens. You can change the date if it’s not suitable.

You need to have passed a theory test in the last 2 years to take this test. Your theory test certificate will not be extended.

Bad weather

Tests are not carried out in dangerous weather conditions, such as when the roads are icy or if there’s flooding, thick fog or high winds.

Call your test centre if there are any of these conditions on the day of your test.

The phone number for the test centre is on your booking confirmation email.

If your test cannot go ahead

The Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) will:

automatically book the next available date for your test

send you the details within 3 working days - it can take up to 7 days if there’s a long period of bad weather

You can change the date you’re given if it’s not suitable.

You cannot claim for any out-of-pocket expenses if your test is cancelled because of bad weather.

Problems with you or your car

You’ll have to book another test and pay again if your test cannot be completed because of a problem with:

you, for example, if you feel unwell while taking your test

your car, for example, if it breaks down during the test or does not meet the rules to be used

If your test is cancelled for another reason

Sometimes DVSA has to cancel tests for other reasons, for example, if the examiner is unwell.

You can apply for a refund of out-of-pocket expenses if DVSA cancels your test at short notice.

Booking your test

You can book your approved driving instructor (ADI) part 3 test when you’ve passed your ADI part 2 test.

It’s the last of 3 tests you have to pass to qualify as an ADI. It’s a test of your ability to teach pupils.

Your driving examiner will call you a few days before your test to agree:

the start time with you

where you want the test to start from (either the driving test centre or somewhere within 5 minutes of the driving test centre)

The ADI part 3 test works differently in Northern Ireland.

The national standard for driver and rider training tells you everything you must be able to do to pass the test.

You can find driving instructor training if you need help to prepare for the test.

What to take to your test

You must bring:

your UK driving licence

a face covering, unless it’s not safe for you to wear one

a suitable car

a pupil

You should also bring a log of the training you’ve been doing to qualify as an approved driving instructor (ADI).

Your test will be cancelled and you will not get your money back if you do not take the right things with you.

Reasons why you must not go to your test

Do not go to your driving test if you or your pupil:

have coronavirus (COVID-19) symptoms, or someone you live with has symptoms

have been told by the NHS Test and Trace service that you’ve been in contact with a person who has COVID-19

are self-isolating because you recently entered the UK

Change your test appointment or cancel your test for free if you’re not able to go.

Wearing a face covering

You and your pupil must each bring and wear a face covering for your test, unless it’s not safe for you to do so. For example, because:

you have a physical or mental illness or impairment, or a disability

wearing it would cause you severe distress

You need to say if you cannot wear a face covering when you book your test. Otherwise, your test will be cancelled if you arrive without one.

You can take it off during your test if you need to avoid harm or injury.

Your driving licence

You need to apply for a replacement driving licence if you lose yours before your test. This could take up to 15 days to arrive.

If you do not have a photocard licence

Bring a valid passport and your paper licence, or your trainee driving instructor licence (if you have one).

If you have a licence from Northern Ireland

Bring the Northern Ireland photocard and paper counterpart.

Rules for the car you use

When you take your test, your car must:

be taxed

be insured for a driving test (check with your insurance company)

be roadworthy and have a current MOT (if it’s over 3 years old)

be a saloon, hatchback or estate car in good working condition - you cannot use a convertible

have full-size rear seats

have no warning lights showing, for example, the airbag warning light

have no tyre damage and the legal tread depth on each tyre - you cannot have a space-saver spare tyre fitted

be smoke-free - this means you cannot smoke in it just before or during the test

be able to reach at least 62mph and have an mph speedometer

have 4 wheels and a maximum authorised mass (MAM) of no more than 3,500 kg

The MAM is the limit on how much the car can weigh when it’s loaded. It’ll be in the car’s handbook.

Your test will be cancelled and you’ll have to pay again if your car does not meet the rules.

Coronavirus (COVID-19) safety

Because of COVID-19 you must clean the inside of your car before your test.

This means:

tidying any unnecessary items away from the dashboard, footwells, door pockets, cup holders and seats

wiping down the dashboard and car controls

The examiner will do an additional clean of some surfaces.

Vehicle fittings and features

The car must have:

L-plates (‘L’ or ‘D’ plates in Wales) on the front and rear if your pupil is a learner

working rear seat belts

Dashcams and other cameras

You can use a camera fitted for insurance purposes, as long as it:

faces outside of the car and does not film the inside

does not record audio from inside the car

Vehicle features

You can use a car with:

an electronic parking brake

hill-start assist

Hire cars

You can take your test in a hire car if it’s fitted with dual controls and meets all the other rules.

Manual and automatic cars

If you have an automatic licence, you must take the test in an automatic car. You’ll only be able to train people in an automatic car when you’ve qualified.

Cars with known safety faults

You cannot use one of the cars shown in the table unless you have proof that it’s safe. This is because these cars have been recalled for a safety reason.

You must bring the proof that it’s safe with you when you take your test.

Model | Reason for recall | Vehicles affected | Recall issue date

Peugeot 108 | Steering failure | Vehicles built between 9 Jun 2014 and 15 Oct 2014, with VINs between VF3xxxxxxER256527 and F3xxxxxxER017078 | 28 Jun 2016

Vauxhall ADAM | Potential steering problem | VINs with last 8 digits between E6077301 to E6113446, and F6000001 to F6006544 | 29 Sep 2014

Vauxhall Corsa D | Potential steering problem | VINs with last 8 digits between E6071016 and E6118738, and E4181031 and E4308122 | 29 Sep 2014

Proof you need to bring to your test

You must bring proof that says one of the following:

the car was recalled and the recall work has been done

the car was recalled but did not need any work to be done

the car was not part of the recall

The proof must be either:

the recall letter or safety notice, stamped by the manufacturer or dealer

on official or headed notepaper from the manufacturer or a dealer

Your test will be cancelled and you could lose your fee if you do not bring the right proof.

What happens during the test

A Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) examiner will watch you give a client-centred driving lesson lasting about 45 minutes to one of your pupils.

Your pupil must drive for at least 40 minutes of the lesson.

At the end of the lesson, give your pupil no more than 3 minutes to reflect on their performance.

The examiner will look for evidence that you meet the national standard for driver and rider training.

Your pupil

Your pupil can be a:

partly trained learner

fully trained learner

full licence holder

Your pupil cannot be:

a learner who has just started learning to drive

an approved driving instructor (ADI) or someone else who is preparing to take the ADI part 3 test

What you’ll be marked on

You’ll be marked on 17 areas of competence that are grouped into 3 categories:

lesson planning

risk management

teaching and learning strategies

The 17 areas of competence are listed in the ADI part 3 test report form, which the examiner will fill in at the end of your test.

You’ll get a score from 0 to 3 for each of the 17 competencies, which are added up to work out if you’ve passed the test, and what your grade will be.

Your test result

After you give the lesson, the examiner will discuss your performance and give you your result.

You’ll get your grade, along with your completed approved driving instructor (ADI) part 3 test report form.

Total score | Grade | Description

0-30 | Fail | Your performance is unsatisfactory, and you will not join the ADI register

31-42 | Grade B | You’ll be allowed to join the ADI register

43-51 | Grade A | You have shown a high standard of instruction and you’ll be allowed to join the ADI register

You’ll automatically fail if:

you get a score of 7 or less in the ‘risk management’ category

the examiner stops the lesson because you’ve put yourself or someone else in danger

If you pass

You can apply for your first ADI badge if you pass the ADI part 3 test.

You must apply within 12 months of passing the test, or you’ll have to pass all 3 qualifying tests again.

If you do not pass

You can take the test again if you fail the first or second attempt. You must book the next attempt within 2 years of passing your ADI part 1 test.

Failing the third attempt

You have to retake and pass the ADI part 1 test and ADI part 2 test again if you fail the ADI part 3 test at your third attempt.

You must wait 2 years from when you originally passed the ADI part 1 test before you can take it again.

Appeal your ADI part 3 test

You can appeal your test if you can prove that your examiner did not follow the law.

Read the guidance on appealing your test to check if your examiner followed the law.

If you have proof they did not follow the law you can complain to the Driver and Vehicle and Standards Agency (DVSA)

If DVSA agrees with your complaint, your test result cannot be changed but you might get a refund or a free retest.

If DVSA does not agree with your complaint you may be able to appeal to a court instead.

Appeal your test to a court

You can appeal if you can prove that your examiner did not follow the law when they carried out your test.

Your test result cannot be changed, but you might get a refund or a free retest if your appeal is successful.

You might have to pay significant legal costs if your appeal is unsuccessful.

You’ll need to appeal within:

6 months of your test in England and Wales

21 days of your test in Scotland

Check if you can appeal.

If your test is cancelled or there's bad weather

Your approved driving instructor (ADI) part 3 test can be cancelled or stopped because of bad weather, problems with your car, or for other reasons.

If your test is suspended due to coronavirus (COVID-19)

You’ll be sent a new date for your test if this happens. You can change the date if it’s not suitable.

You need to have passed a theory test in the last 2 years to take this test. Your theory test certificate will not be extended.

Bad weather

Tests are not carried out in dangerous weather conditions, such as when the roads are icy or if there’s flooding, thick fog or high winds.

Call your test centre if there are any of these conditions on the day of your test.

The phone number for the test centre is on your booking confirmation email.

If your test cannot go ahead

The Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) will:

automatically book the next available date for your test

send you the details within 3 working days - it can take up to 7 days if there’s a long period of bad weather

You can change the date you’re given if it’s not suitable.

You cannot claim for any out-of-pocket expenses if your test is cancelled because of bad weather.

Problems with you or your car

You’ll have to book another test and pay again if your test cannot be completed because of a problem with:

you, for example, if you feel unwell while taking your test

your car, for example, if it breaks down during the test or does not meet the rules to be used

If your test is cancelled for another reason

Sometimes DVSA has to cancel tests for other reasons, for example, if the examiner is unwell.

You can apply for a refund of out-of-pocket expenses if DVSA cancels your test at short notice.

Booking your test

You can book your approved driving instructor (ADI) part 3 test when you’ve passed your ADI part 2 test.

It’s the last of 3 tests you have to pass to qualify as an ADI. It’s a test of your ability to teach pupils.

Your driving examiner will call you a few days before your test to agree:

the start time with you

where you want the test to start from (either the driving test centre or somewhere within 5 minutes of the driving test centre)

The ADI part 3 test works differently in Northern Ireland.

The national standard for driver and rider training tells you everything you must be able to do to pass the test.

You can find driving instructor training if you need help to prepare for the test.

What to take to your test

You must bring:

your UK driving licence

a face covering, unless it’s not safe for you to wear one

a suitable car

a pupil

You should also bring a log of the training you’ve been doing to qualify as an approved driving instructor (ADI).

Your test will be cancelled and you will not get your money back if you do not take the right things with you.

Reasons why you must not go to your test

Do not go to your driving test if you or your pupil:

have coronavirus (COVID-19) symptoms, or someone you live with has symptoms

have been told by the NHS Test and Trace service that you’ve been in contact with a person who has COVID-19

are self-isolating because you recently entered the UK

Change your test appointment or cancel your test for free if you’re not able to go.

Wearing a face covering

You and your pupil must each bring and wear a face covering for your test, unless it’s not safe for you to do so. For example, because:

you have a physical or mental illness or impairment, or a disability

wearing it would cause you severe distress

You need to say if you cannot wear a face covering when you book your test. Otherwise, your test will be cancelled if you arrive without one.

You can take it off during your test if you need to avoid harm or injury.

Your driving licence

You need to apply for a replacement driving licence if you lose yours before your test. This could take up to 15 days to arrive.

If you do not have a photocard licence

Bring a valid passport and your paper licence, or your trainee driving instructor licence (if you have one).

If you have a licence from Northern Ireland

Bring the Northern Ireland photocard and paper counterpart.

Rules for the car you use

When you take your test, your car must:

be taxed

be insured for a driving test (check with your insurance company)

be roadworthy and have a current MOT (if it’s over 3 years old)

be a saloon, hatchback or estate car in good working condition - you cannot use a convertible

have full-size rear seats

have no warning lights showing, for example, the airbag warning light

have no tyre damage and the legal tread depth on each tyre - you cannot have a space-saver spare tyre fitted

be smoke-free - this means you cannot smoke in it just before or during the test

be able to reach at least 62mph and have an mph speedometer

have 4 wheels and a maximum authorised mass (MAM) of no more than 3,500 kg

The MAM is the limit on how much the car can weigh when it’s loaded. It’ll be in the car’s handbook.

Your test will be cancelled and you’ll have to pay again if your car does not meet the rules.

Coronavirus (COVID-19) safety

Because of COVID-19 you must clean the inside of your car before your test.

This means:

tidying any unnecessary items away from the dashboard, footwells, door pockets, cup holders and seats

wiping down the dashboard and car controls

The examiner will do an additional clean of some surfaces.

Vehicle fittings and features

The car must have:

L-plates (‘L’ or ‘D’ plates in Wales) on the front and rear if your pupil is a learner

working rear seat belts

Dashcams and other cameras

You can use a camera fitted for insurance purposes, as long as it:

faces outside of the car and does not film the inside

does not record audio from inside the car

Vehicle features

You can use a car with:

an electronic parking brake

hill-start assist

Hire cars

You can take your test in a hire car if it’s fitted with dual controls and meets all the other rules.

Manual and automatic cars

If you have an automatic licence, you must take the test in an automatic car. You’ll only be able to train people in an automatic car when you’ve qualified.

Cars with known safety faults

You cannot use one of the cars shown in the table unless you have proof that it’s safe. This is because these cars have been recalled for a safety reason.

You must bring the proof that it’s safe with you when you take your test.

Model | Reason for recall | Vehicles affected | Recall issue date

Peugeot 108 | Steering failure | Vehicles built between 9 Jun 2014 and 15 Oct 2014, with VINs between VF3xxxxxxER256527 and F3xxxxxxER017078 | 28 Jun 2016

Vauxhall ADAM | Potential steering problem | VINs with last 8 digits between E6077301 to E6113446, and F6000001 to F6006544 | 29 Sep 2014

Vauxhall Corsa D | Potential steering problem | VINs with last 8 digits between E6071016 and E6118738, and E4181031 and E4308122 | 29 Sep 2014

Proof you need to bring to your test

You must bring proof that says one of the following:

the car was recalled and the recall work has been done

the car was recalled but did not need any work to be done

the car was not part of the recall

The proof must be either:

the recall letter or safety notice, stamped by the manufacturer or dealer

on official or headed notepaper from the manufacturer or a dealer

Your test will be cancelled and you could lose your fee if you do not bring the right proof.

What happens during the test

A Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) examiner will watch you give a client-centred driving lesson lasting about 45 minutes to one of your pupils.

Your pupil must drive for at least 40 minutes of the lesson.

At the end of the lesson, give your pupil no more than 3 minutes to reflect on their performance.

The examiner will look for evidence that you meet the national standard for driver and rider training.

Your pupil

Your pupil can be a:

partly trained learner

fully trained learner

full licence holder

Your pupil cannot be:

a learner who has just started learning to drive

an approved driving instructor (ADI) or someone else who is preparing to take the ADI part 3 test

What you’ll be marked on

You’ll be marked on 17 areas of competence that are grouped into 3 categories:

lesson planning

risk management

teaching and learning strategies

The 17 areas of competence are listed in the ADI part 3 test report form, which the examiner will fill in at the end of your test.

You’ll get a score from 0 to 3 for each of the 17 competencies, which are added up to work out if you’ve passed the test, and what your grade will be.

Your test result

After you give the lesson, the examiner will discuss your performance and give you your result.

You’ll get your grade, along with your completed approved driving instructor (ADI) part 3 test report form.

Total score | Grade | Description

0-30 | Fail | Your performance is unsatisfactory, and you will not join the ADI register

31-42 | Grade B | You’ll be allowed to join the ADI register

43-51 | Grade A | You have shown a high standard of instruction and you’ll be allowed to join the ADI register

You’ll automatically fail if:

you get a score of 7 or less in the ‘risk management’ category

the examiner stops the lesson because you’ve put yourself or someone else in danger

If you pass

You can apply for your first ADI badge if you pass the ADI part 3 test.

You must apply within 12 months of passing the test, or you’ll have to pass all 3 qualifying tests again.

If you do not pass

You can take the test again if you fail the first or second attempt. You must book the next attempt within 2 years of passing your ADI part 1 test.

Failing the third attempt

You have to retake and pass the ADI part 1 test and ADI part 2 test again if you fail the ADI part 3 test at your third attempt.

You must wait 2 years from when you originally passed the ADI part 1 test before you can take it again.

Appeal your ADI part 3 test

You can appeal your test if you can prove that your examiner did not follow the law.

Read the guidance on appealing your test to check if your examiner followed the law.

If you have proof they did not follow the law you can complain to the Driver and Vehicle and Standards Agency (DVSA)

If DVSA agrees with your complaint, your test result cannot be changed but you might get a refund or a free retest.

If DVSA does not agree with your complaint you may be able to appeal to a court instead.

Appeal your test to a court

You can appeal if you can prove that your examiner did not follow the law when they carried out your test.

Your test result cannot be changed, but you might get a refund or a free retest if your appeal is successful.

You might have to pay significant legal costs if your appeal is unsuccessful.

You’ll need to appeal within:

6 months of your test in England and Wales

21 days of your test in Scotland

Check if you can appeal.

If your test is cancelled or there's bad weather

Your approved driving instructor (ADI) part 3 test can be cancelled or stopped because of bad weather, problems with your car, or for other reasons.

If your test is suspended due to coronavirus (COVID-19)

You’ll be sent a new date for your test if this happens. You can change the date if it’s not suitable.

You need to have passed a theory test in the last 2 years to take this test. Your theory test certificate will not be extended.

Bad weather

Tests are not carried out in dangerous weather conditions, such as when the roads are icy or if there’s flooding, thick fog or high winds.

Call your test centre if there are any of these conditions on the day of your test.

The phone number for the test centre is on your booking confirmation email.

If your test cannot go ahead

The Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) will:

automatically book the next available date for your test

send you the details within 3 working days - it can take up to 7 days if there’s a long period of bad weather

You can change the date you’re given if it’s not suitable.

You cannot claim for any out-of-pocket expenses if your test is cancelled because of bad weather.

Problems with you or your car

You’ll have to book another test and pay again if your test cannot be completed because of a problem with:

you, for example, if you feel unwell while taking your test

your car, for example, if it breaks down during the test or does not meet the rules to be used

If your test is cancelled for another reason

Sometimes DVSA has to cancel tests for other reasons, for example, if the examiner is unwell.

You can apply for a refund of out-of-pocket expenses if DVSA cancels your test at short notice.