ADI Part 1

UK ADI Part 1 theory test

Last reviewed against gov.uk on 30 May 2026

The UK Approved Driving Instructor (ADI) Part 1 theory test is the entry exam for becoming a car driving instructor. It is 100 multiple-choice questions in 1 hour 30 minutes , divided into 4 banded categories of 25 questions each. To pass, you need at least 85 out of 100 overall AND at least 20 out of 25 in each band — both conditions are required. The hazard perception section has a higher bar than the standard test: 57 out of 75. Fee: £81.

To pass the multiple-choice part, you must get both: an overall score of at least 85 out of 100; at least 20 out of 25 in each of the 4 categories of questions.

— GOV.UK — ADI Part 1: pass mark and result

The 4 banded categories

Each band has 25 questions. You need at least 20 right in each to pass that band — and an overall 85+.

Road procedure.
Traffic signs and signals, car control, pedestrians, mechanical knowledge.
Driving test, disabilities, and the law.
Publications and instructional techniques.

Structure and pass marks

UK ADI Part 1 theory test — at a glance (source: gov.uk)
Multiple-choice questions	100 (25 in each of 4 bands)
Time allowed	1 hour 30 minutes
Overall pass mark	85 out of 100
Per-band minimum	At least 20 out of 25 in each band
Hazard perception clips	14 (15 scored developing hazards)
Hazard perception pass mark	57 out of 75
Fee	£81
Certificate validity	2 years from the day you pass Part 1 — you must pass Parts 2 and 3 within that window, or start the whole application process again

Why the bar is higher

ADI Part 1 is the first of three exams (Part 1 theory, Part 2 practical driving, Part 3 instructional ability). Because you will be teaching learners the test material, DVSA expects a broader and more consistent grasp than a regular learner. The 20-per-band rule prevents passing the overall test while leaving one topic area weak.

Eligibility

Aged 21 or over and have held a full car driving licence for at least 3 years.
Not disqualified (banned) from driving in the last 4 years.
Registered on the ADI candidate register and passed the criminal-record (DBS) check.
Your application can also be refused if you have 5 or more penalty points within the last 3 years; convictions for a sexual, violent, financial or drug-related crime; or a ban from working with children.
Once you pass Part 1, you have 2 years to pass Part 2 and Part 3; otherwise you must start the whole application process again.

Sources

GOV.UK — ADI Part 1 test
GOV.UK — ADI Part 1: multiple-choice questions
GOV.UK — ADI Part 1 test: pass mark and result
GOV.UK — Approved driving instructor (ADI) fees
GOV.UK — Driving test cost
GOV.UK — Become a driving instructor

ADI Part 1 — FAQs

What is the pass mark for the UK driving theory test?

For the car theory test you need at least 43 out of 50 on the multiple-choice section and 44 out of 75 on the hazard perception test. Both parts must be passed in the same sitting.

Source: gov.uk — pass mark and result

How do I book the UK theory test?

Book only through the official GOV.UK service at gov.uk/book-theory-test — that is the only valid booking route for DVSA tests. You need your UK driving licence number (provisional is fine), an email address and a credit or debit card. Third-party sites that charge to book are unofficial.

Source: gov.uk — book your theory test

How long is a theory test pass valid for?

Two years. You must pass your practical driving test within two years of your theory test pass — otherwise you will need to retake the theory test.

Source: gov.uk — pass mark and result

When can I retake the theory test if I fail?

You must wait at least 3 working days before retaking. There is no legal limit on how many times you can retake it, but each attempt costs the full fee.

Source: gov.uk — pass mark and result