The ADI Check Test - What Every Driving Instructor Needs to Know
Everything you need to know about the RSA ADI check test: 16 core competencies, four assessment levels, preparation tips, and what happens on the day.
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The Short Answer
The ADI check test is an RSA competency assessment where you deliver a normal lesson while being observed. It is free (no fee). You must demonstrate 16 core plus at least 5 non-core competencies. The RSA gives at least 28 days notice. The pass rate is approximately 69% (no specific year cited for this figure). There are four escalating levels of assessment.
What Is the Check Test?
An ongoing competency assessment for registered ADIs.
The RSA conducts check tests as spot checks to ensure that professional teaching standards are maintained across the ADI register. The format is straightforward: you deliver a normal driving lesson to an existing or former student while one or two RSA examiners observe from the rear seat.
Unlike Stage exams, the ADI check test is not booked by the ADI. The RSA initiates the process and provides at least 28 days notice. The competency standard is the same as Stage 3 of the ADI qualification process. ADI registration must be renewed every 2 years (EUR 250).
For details on the teaching skills being assessed, see our guide on taking a coaching approach and how to be a great driving instructor.
Four Levels of Assessment
The RSA uses an escalating four-level system. Each level carries increasing consequences.
Routine Informational
Verbal feedback provided. This is the standard check test that most ADIs experience. The examiner observes your lesson and discusses your performance afterwards.
Formal Re-testing
Written assessment provided. A more structured evaluation where your performance is formally documented. Areas for improvement are clearly recorded.
Failed Re-test
Conducted 4 weeks after a failed Level 2. The stakes are higher and the RSA is looking for clear evidence of improvement in previously identified weak areas.
Final Formal Opportunity
Your last chance before potential removal from the ADI register. Failure at this level can result in losing your registration and your ability to teach.
16 Core Competencies
Based on RSA check test assessment criteria. Use the interactive checklist below to self-rate your confidence in each competency. Your progress is saved automatically.
These competencies are based on RSA check test assessment criteria rather than an exact published list. They align with the competencies referenced in the Stage 3 report form.
Preparation Tips
How to prepare for your ADI check test without over-preparing.
- Deliver the planned lesson for that student. The examiner will check your logbook, so your lesson should match what you had already scheduled. Do not over-plan or conduct the lesson differently than you normally would.
- Common failure reasons: Over-planning, artificial performance, poor understanding of competencies, and not demonstrating all 16 core competencies during the observed lesson.
- Vehicle preparation: Your car must be clean and have rear seating available for up to 2 RSA staff. Your student must hold a valid learner permit.
- Study resources: Review the RSA Guide to Check Test PDF and the Stage 3 Test Report Form. Both documents outline the competencies and assessment criteria the examiner uses.
- Professional development: Consider check test training with NUI for a one-to-one refresher session. See also our guide on taking a coaching approach to strengthen your student-centred skills.
Test Day Walkthrough
What to expect when the RSA arrives to observe your lesson.
The RSA provides at least 28 days notice before a check test. On the day, arrive with your car and your student as normal. Deliver the pre-planned lesson naturally. Do not change your approach because of the observer.
Up to 2 RSA staff may observe from the rear seat. They are assessing your teaching competence, not your student's driving ability. Focus on delivering a structured, student-centred lesson that demonstrates all 16 core competencies.
If your performance is unsatisfactory, a second test is arranged within 6-8 weeks. Persistent failure can lead to removal from the ADI register. For information on maintaining your teaching standards, see our guide on how to be a great driving instructor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about the ADI check test.
No. Check tests are free. No fee is charged. The RSA conducts them as part of ongoing quality assurance for the ADI register. The only cost associated with your ADI status is the 2-year registration renewal fee of EUR 250.
The RSA provides at least 28 days notice before conducting a check test. You cannot book or schedule one yourself. The RSA initiates all check tests as random spot checks.
Level 1 is routine with verbal feedback. Level 2 is formal with written assessment. Level 3 occurs 4 weeks after a Level 2 failure. Level 4 is your final opportunity before potential removal from the register. Each level carries increasing consequences for your ADI registration.
A second check test is arranged within 6-8 weeks. If you continue to fail, the RSA can ultimately remove you from the ADI register. Consider booking check test training with NUI to identify and address weak areas before your re-test.
Yes. You should bring an existing or former student who holds a valid learner permit. However, if your student does not attend on the day, the examiner may substitute as the student for the observed lesson.
Approximately 69% of ADIs pass their check test, up from 64% in 2010. Around 31% of ADIs require a re-test. No specific year is cited for the 69% figure. Proper preparation and maintaining consistent teaching standards are key to passing.
The RSA decides when to conduct check tests. They are random spot checks with no fixed schedule. You should always be prepared by maintaining high teaching standards. For tips on staying sharp, see our guide on how to be a great driving instructor.
Need Check Test Preparation?
NUI offers one-to-one check test preparation to help you demonstrate all 16 core competencies naturally. Free consultation available.