The ADI Part 3 test is the final step towards becoming a driving instructor in the UK. This test focuses entirely on your ability to teach, rather than your driving skills in ADI Part 1 and ADI Part 2.
During the ADI Part 3 test, you’ll deliver a real driving lesson while being assessed by an examiner. You’ll need to demonstrate strong lesson planning, clear communication and effective risk management throughout.
While ADI Part 3 is often considered the most challenging part of driving instructor training, it’s also the final step before becoming a fully qualified instructor. With the right preparation and practice, many trainees go on to pass successfully.
To help you prepare, we’ll explain what the ADI Part 3 test involves and the average pass rate. Then we’ll look at how you’re assessed and how to give yourself the best chance of passing.
What is the ADI Part 3 test?
The ADI Part 3 is the final step towards becoming a qualified driving instructor in the UK. The test focuses solely on instructional ability. This is the part where you’ve already proven yourself as a competent driver in ADI Parts 1 and 2, and now you have to apply your skills in a teaching environment.
Is ADI Part 3 difficult?
ADI Part 3 is usually seen as the most challenging part of the driving instructor qualification process. Unlike ADI Parts 1 and 2, which focus on knowledge and driving ability, Part 3 tests how well you can teach.
At this stage, you’ll be demonstrating that you can plan a structured lesson. This includes communicating clearly and adapting your teaching to suit the pupil.
As you might expect, the ADI Part 3 pass rate is lower than the other ADI tests. This reflects the higher standard required. However, with the right training, consistent practice and proper experience, you can go on to pass successfully.
The ADI Part 3 training process
Before taking ADI Part 3, you’ll already have completed Parts 1 and 2 of the qualification process. Most candidates then complete at least 40 hours of ADI Part 3 training with a qualified instructor before taking the test.
After the 40 hours, you will have developed key skills to carry out your future role, including:
- How to plan lessons
- Core competencies
- Risk management
- Teaching and learning strategies
Working under a trainee (PDI) licence
Between tests 2 and 3 of the driving instructor training journey, trainee instructors have the option to apply for a PDI licence. This means you can work as a potential driving instructor for up to 6 months with real pupils. It gives you that all-important contact time with learner drivers, as well as the opportunity to earn money as a trainee instructor.
The experience gained in these six months is invaluable and will help to further develop your planning driving lessons and instructional skills. It will give you the opportunity to hone your teaching style and see how you can adapt it to suit certain students.
You do not have to apply for a trainee licence – you can go straight to the ADI Test Part 3, if you wish. However, many find it to be a beneficial experience. Your trainer should be able to help you make this decision, as well as give you top tips for passing your driving instructor test.
What does the ADI Part 3 test involve?
The ADI Part 3 test consists of the prospective instructor leading a real lesson. This can be with a real pupil or a full licence holder. The examiner will sit in the back of the car during this lesson.
During the test, the examiner marks you across 17 areas of competence that are split into three categories:
- Lesson planning
- Teaching and learning strategies
- Risk management
During the test, you must provide the examiner with the lesson plan and introduce the pupil to them.
You will need to explain to your pupil that it is you who is being tested and not them. However, you should go over this outside the test centre before you begin and check if there is anything they are keen to go over in the lesson.
You should then conduct the lesson as planned. The examiner will be looking for you to deliver clear and concise instructions. The lesson must also be conducted as safely as possible.
After the lesson, you will need to debrief your pupil, and you will then be provided with your test results by the examiner.
You will be scored out of 51. Each competency will be scored from 0 to 3.
- If you score between 42 and 51, you will be awarded a Grade A
- A score of between 31 and 41 will be awarded a Grade B
- Anything below 31 means you will not pass the test and, as such, will not be added to the register of approved driving instructors yet.
How to pass ADI Part 3 tips
As we’ve seen, passing ADI Part 3 comes down to demonstrating that you can deliver an effective driving lesson. Here are some key tips to help you prepare and maximise your chances of passing:
- Make sure your lesson is tailored to the pupil’s ability. Having a proper plan shows the examiner that you understand how to help a learner safely.
- Give instructions that are simple and easy to follow. Try not to overload your pupil with too much information at once. Plan some appropriate ADI Part 3 questions and answers to show your knowledge and help your pupil learn.
- Understand that every learner is different and you might need to adjust your style depending on how your pupil responds during the lesson.
- Keep safety in mind at all times, including actively identifying potential hazards and stepping in when needed.
- Create an active learning environment. One good way is to ask questions that help your pupil think for themselves and improve their understanding.
- Finally, remember that the examiner is assessing how you manage the lesson. Things might not go perfectly, but staying composed and professional will make a positive impact regardless of everything else.
Common mistakes in ADI Part 3
Now we know what to do to pass your ADI Part 3 test, here are some common mistakes to avoid:
- Giving too many instructions can overwhelm the pupil. Good teaching should be about guiding, so ask questions and encourage your learner.
- Delivering a rigid lesson plan without responding to the pupil’s ability can lead to lower marks.
- Safety first – failing to identify or act on potential hazards early enough is one of the biggest reasons candidates fail, so stay alert.
- Jumping between topics or not having a clear goal for the lesson can make things feel unfocussed.
Instead, by being aware of these common mistakes, you can focus your preparation on delivering a calm and genuinely helpful lesson.
How to prepare for your ADI Part 3 test
In addition to the tips above, there are also several practical ways you can prepare for your ADI Part 3 test.
Get hands-on experience
First, you should prepare for your ADI Part 3 test by getting as much practice as possible. This can be done with real pupils, if you opt to work under a PDI licence, or you can role-play with friends and family at home. You should also take extra care when creating the lesson plan to ensure it fully meets the needs of the pupil.
Understand the test
Next, take time to familiarise yourself with the test marking sheet, as it will show you exactly what you are being marked on. This will help you create your lesson plan and ensure you meet all of the required criteria.
Make a good impression
You should also always try to make a good first impression with your examiner. Making sure that your car is clean and that you are well-presented can help with this.
Minimise surprises on the day
Learning the roads around the test centre will also help ensure that you are able to plan and provide accurate directions to your pupil. You can plan role-play sessions prior to the test. If this is carried out around the area where you are taking your test it will also help you get used to the traffic conditions and any road disruptions.
Pay attention
Finally, you can pick up on cues provided by the examiner. This may be checking mirrors or blindspots, for example. Reacting to anything they may ask and ensuring your pupil understands everything will make an excellent impression.
What is the average pass rate of the ADI Part 3 test?
According to government statistics, the average ADI Part 3 pass rate for the year ending in March 2026 was around 29%. This is the lowest pass rate of any ADI test and highlights the need to take this section of the driving instructor test seriously and to prepare accordingly.
While this pass rate might look low, it is still very manageable with the right preparation and experience.
What happens if you fail the ADI Part 3 test?
Failing the ADI Part 3 test is not the end of the road for those that want to become driving instructors. You are allowed three attempts at the test. You will also have gained valuable experience and feedback from the senior examiner each time you take the test.
If you fail the ADI Part 3 three times, you will then have to resit all three ADI tests again. You would have to wait two years from your original pass date for the ADI part 1 test to reapply. You will also have the expense of retaking the tests.
Driving instructor training with Bill Plant Driving School
The ADI Part 3 test may be the toughest one to pass. You’ll need to apply everything you’ve learned to create a professional and effective experience for your pupil. But with expert tuition and plenty of hands-on experience, you can put yourself in the best position to pass.
Take your driving instructor training up a gear by joining an award-winning franchise like Bill Plant Driving School. Explore our driving instructor training courses to start your journey towards a rewarding new career.
FAQs about the ADI Test Part 3
How much does the ADI Part 3 test cost?
The ADI Part 3 test costs £111. This amount is the same as the ADI test Part 2 and is set by the DVSA (Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency).
What kind of car can I sit the ADI Part 3 test in?
The criteria for a car used for the ADI Part 3 test states it must:
- Be fully taxed
- Have a valid MOT
- Be insured
- Be roadworthy
- Be an estate, saloon, or hatchback
- Have working seatbelts and full-sized back seat
- Have an adjustable head restraint and driver’s seat
- Display L-plates
Is lesson planning part of the ADI Part 3 test of instructional ability?
Lesson planning is a vital part of the third part of the ADI test. You must create a well-structured lesson that can be delivered safely. Risk management is also an important part of the test. Being well prepared can help to mitigate risks on the road.
How long is the ADI Part 3 test?
The ADI Part 3 test is typically around 1 hour long and consists of a full driving lesson with your pupil.
How many attempts do you get for ADI Part 3?
You can have up to three attempts to pass the ADI Part 3 test. If you fail all three attempts, you’ll need to start the process again by retaking the ADI Part 1 theory test.
Do you need a real pupil for ADI Part 3?
In your ADI Part 3 test you can use either a real learner driver or a full licence holder acting as a pupil. In either case, your examiner will assess how well you deliver the lesson.
What grade do you need to pass ADI Part 3?
Passing the ADI Part 3 requires you to score at least 31 out of 51. This will give you a Grade B. A score of 42 or higher results in a Grade A.
What happens after you pass ADI Part 3?
After you pass ADI Part 3, you can apply to join the register of Approved Driving Instructors (ADI). Then, once registered, you’ll be able to work as a fully qualified driving instructor. Congratulations.