Passed Stage 1 of the ADI Exam - Here Is What to Do Next
Your journey planning guide: decisions to make, timeline to follow, and training options to consider now that Stage 1 is behind you.
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The Short Answer
Congratulations on passing Stage 1. You now have 24 months to complete Stages 2 and 3. Your priorities: book Stage 2 through the RSA immediately, decide on professional training (NUI offers one-to-one in-car sessions), and plan your timeline factoring in the 6-12 week wait for Stage 3 appointments.
Your Situation Now
You have passed the theory. The clock is ticking. Here is where you stand and what to focus on.
Well done. Passing the Stage 1 theory test means you have demonstrated the knowledge foundation needed to become a driving instructor. But that was the self-study stage. Everything from here involves practical skills, real vehicles, and real roads.
The 24-month deadline started the day you passed. Within that window, you must pass both Stage 2 (practical driving) and Stage 3 (instruction ability), then register as an ADI. Miss the deadline and you start the entire process again.
You have three immediate priorities:
- Book Stage 2 as soon as possible through the RSA website
- Decide on professional training versus self-preparation for the practical test
- Plan your full timeline including the 6-12 week wait for Stage 3 appointments
This page is about making those decisions. For details on the Stage 2 exam itself (19 assessment categories, pass criteria, what to expect on the day), see our dedicated Stage 2 guide.
Three Decisions to Make Now
The choices you make in the next few weeks will shape the rest of your ADI journey.
Professional Training or Self-Preparation?
Stage 2 is a practical on-road driving test at an advanced level. Unlike Stage 1, where self-study was sufficient, most candidates benefit from professional in-car training for Stage 2. The test assesses your driving across 19 categories, and the standard required goes well beyond a normal driving test.
NUI Driving Instructor Training provides one-to-one sessions, not classroom or group. Training is available in Dublin, Galway, and Cork. NUI beats any training quote by 15%. See the full ADI costs breakdown.
Which Test Centre?
Only 13 centres offer Stage 2 and Stage 3 testing. Choose based on proximity and familiarity with local routes:
- Athlone
- Cork
- Dundalk
- Finglas
- Galway
- Kilkenny
- Letterkenny
- Limerick
- Mullingar
- Rathgar
- Sligo
- Tralee
- Waterford
NUI has route knowledge at Dublin (Finglas and Rathgar), Galway, and Cork centres, which can give you an advantage in preparation.
Trainee Licence After Stage 2?
Once you pass Stage 2, you can apply for an optional 6-month trainee instructor licence (€50, via RSA.ie). This allows you to start teaching learners while you prepare for Stage 3. At least 20% of your lessons must be supervised by a sponsoring ADI who is fully qualified.
The trainee licence is a good way to gain real teaching experience and start earning before you complete the final stage. Learn more in our how to become a driving instructor guide.
Your Timeline
A realistic timeline from now through to full ADI registration.
Book through the RSA website or by phone using your ADI eligibility number. Do not delay. The sooner you book, the more time you have if you need a second attempt.
Begin in-car training with NUI or your chosen provider. Focus on the 19 assessment categories and driving at the advanced standard required.
Take the practical driving test (€200 per attempt). You drive your own vehicle on public roads while an RSA examiner assesses your driving.
Apply for the 6-month trainee instructor licence (€50) if you want to start teaching while preparing for Stage 3.
Book Stage 3 early. Expect a 6-12 week wait for your test date. Use this time for instruction training with NUI.
The instruction ability test: two 30-minute phases testing your teaching skills (€200 per attempt).
Apply for ADI registration (€250). Your ADI permit is issued within 20 working days. You are now a fully qualified driving instructor.
Post-Stage 1 Action Checklist
Track your progress after passing Stage 1. Your checklist is saved automatically in your browser.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions after passing Stage 1, answered directly.
You have 24 months from the date you pass Stage 1 to complete all remaining stages (Stage 2 and Stage 3) and register as an ADI. If you do not complete within this window, you must start the entire process again. (RSA.ie)
It is strongly recommended. Stage 2 is a practical on-road driving test at an advanced level, assessed across 19 categories. NUI offers one-to-one in-car training with knowledge of examiner routes in Dublin, Galway, and Cork. NUI beats any training quote by 15%. See the full cost breakdown.
Book through the RSA website or by phone. You will need your ADI eligibility number. Choose from 13 available test centres: Athlone, Cork, Dundalk, Finglas, Galway, Kilkenny, Letterkenny, Limerick, Mullingar, Rathgar, Sligo, Tralee, and Waterford. See the Stage 2 exam details for full information on what the test involves.
After passing Stage 2, you can apply for a 6-month licence (€50) that allows you to start teaching learners. At least 20% of your lessons must be supervised by a sponsoring ADI who is fully qualified. This gives you real-world experience and a head start on earning income. (RSA.ie)
Typically 6-12 weeks between booking and your Stage 3 test date. Factor this into your 24-month planning. Book Stage 3 as soon as you pass Stage 2 to avoid running up against your deadline. Read the full qualification guide for more on timeline planning.