ADI Stage 1 Theory Test - Your First Step to Becoming a Driving Instructor
Everything you need to know about the ADI Stage 1 theory test: format, pass marks, preparation, and booking.
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The Short Answer
Stage 1 of the ADI qualification is a computer-based theory test of 100 multiple choice questions across 5 sections, each with its own pass mark. The test costs €150 per attempt (RSA.ie, 2026) and is available at 41 RSA test centres. Pass rates average 73-74%. NUI recommends self-study and does not charge for Stage 1 preparation.
What Is the ADI Stage 1 Theory Test?
The first of three stages in the ADI qualification process.
The Stage 1 theory test is a computer-based examination covering driving knowledge, teaching ability, road safety, and vehicle maintenance. It is the gateway to your ADI career - you cannot proceed to Stage 2 without passing.
The test consists of 100 multiple choice questions divided across five sections. Each section has its own individual pass mark, meaning you must demonstrate competence in every area to pass overall.
NUI Driving Instructor Training recommends self-study using free RSA resources and does not charge for Stage 1 preparation. The test is available in English or Irish (preference indicated on your ADI registration form). Learn more about what is an ADI and the ADI requirements.
Exam Format and Pass Criteria
Full details of the Stage 1 theory test structure, pass marks, and booking information.
5 Sections with Individual Pass Marks
You must pass each section individually. Failing one section means failing the whole test.
| Section | Pass Mark |
|---|---|
| Driver Testing Procedures | 75% |
| Road Safety Knowledge | 72% |
| Teaching Ability | 60% |
| Vehicle Maintenance | 70% |
| Category-Specific Knowledge | 70% |
Pass marks are set by the RSA. The 100 questions consist of 80 core questions across four sections plus 20 category-specific questions. See the full ADI training costs breakdown.
How to Prepare
NUI recommends self-study for Stage 1 and does not charge for Stage 1 preparation. NUI advises against paying for Stage 1 training courses.
Study Resources
- RSA Rules of the Road (free download from RSA.ie)
- RSA free ADI resources available online
- RSA ADI application pack and information booklet
- 1-2 comprehensive guidebooks (€100 max)
Explore our full list of study resources for aspiring driving instructors.
Prerequisites
- Applied for ADI registration and received eligibility number
- Full driving licence held for 2+ years
- Tax compliant (tax clearance certificate required)
- Garda vetting passed
Check the full ADI requirements before you start.
Practice Mini-Quiz
Test your knowledge with 5 sample questions from the Stage 1 quiz bank, one from each section.
Test Day - What to Expect
A walkthrough of what happens on the day of your Stage 1 theory test.
Arrive at your chosen RSA test centre with your ADI eligibility number and valid photo identification. There are 41 centres across Ireland, so choose the one most convenient for you.
Before the test begins, you get 15 minutes to familiarise yourself with the computer system. This time does not count towards your test duration.
You have 1.5 hours to complete all 100 multiple choice questions. Questions are displayed one at a time on a computer screen.
Results are provided after completion. If you pass, you can proceed to book Stage 2. If you fail, you can retake by paying €150 again after a minimum waiting period of three business days.
After Passing Stage 1
Your next steps once you have your Stage 1 pass under your belt.
Once you pass Stage 1, your next step is to book the Stage 2 practical driving test. This is where professional training becomes valuable. NUI Driving Instructor Training offers one-to-one in-car training to prepare you for Stage 2 and Stage 3.
Remember: you have 24 months from passing Stage 1 to complete all remaining stages. Each subsequent stage must be completed within 6 months of the previous one. Do not delay in booking Stage 2 once you have your result.
Read our detailed guide on what to do after passing Stage 1 for a complete walkthrough of the next steps in your ADI journey. You can also review the full qualification guide for an overview of the entire process.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about the ADI Stage 1 theory test, answered directly.
€150 per attempt. If you need to retake, you pay €150 again. The fee is payable directly to the RSA when booking your test online or by phone. (RSA.ie, 2026) See the full ADI training costs breakdown.
5 sections: Driver Testing Procedures, Road Safety Knowledge, Teaching Ability, Vehicle Maintenance, and Category-Specific Knowledge. Each section has its own individual pass mark, and you must pass all five to pass the test overall.
Each section has its own pass mark: Driver Testing Procedures 75%, Road Safety 72%, Teaching Ability 60%, Vehicle Maintenance 70%, Category-Specific 70%. You must pass every section individually. Failing any one section means failing the whole test.
1.5 hours for the test itself, plus 15 minutes familiarisation time at the beginning to learn the computer system. The familiarisation period does not count towards your test time. The 100 questions are presented one at a time on screen.
NUI recommends self-study using free RSA resources. NUI does not charge for Stage 1 preparation and advises against paying for Stage 1 training courses. The theory test covers topics well suited to independent study using the RSA Rules of the Road, ADI information pack, and 1-2 guidebooks. Browse our recommended study resources.
At any of the 41 RSA test centres across Ireland. The test is computer-based so does not require specialist facilities. You can book online via RSA.ie or by phone once you have your ADI eligibility number.
Pass rates have averaged between 73-74% historically. Around three quarters of candidates pass on their attempt. With thorough self-study using the RSA materials, you can give yourself the best possible chance of passing first time.