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Watch on YouTubeWhat is the ADI Part 2 Test?
The ADI Part 2 is an advanced driving test that demonstrates your ability to drive to an exceptionally high standard. You must achieve this level because you'll be teaching learners, and your driving must be beyond reproach.
Test Format
- Duration: Approximately 60 minutes of driving
- Maneuvers: 2 reversing exercises (chosen by examiner)
- Independent driving: 20 minutes following satnav or traffic signs
- Pass mark: Maximum 6 driving faults, no serious or dangerous faults
What Examiners Assess
Key Assessment Areas
- ✓ Observation - Constant all-round awareness and effective use of mirrors
- ✓ Anticipation - Reading the road ahead and predicting hazards
- ✓ Planning - Being in the right position, speed, and gear at the right time
- ✓ Use of speed - Appropriate speed for conditions, not just speed limits
- ✓ Smoothness - Coordinated controls with no harsh braking or acceleration
- ✓ Positioning - Optimal road positioning on all road types
Commentary Driving
During the test, you'll be asked to provide commentary on your driving. This demonstrates your understanding of what you're doing and why. The examiner wants to hear your thought process and decision-making.
What to Include in Commentary
- Observations: What you can see - pedestrians, cyclists, parked cars
- Hazards: Potential dangers and developing situations
- Actions: What you're doing - "Checking mirrors, signaling right"
- Decisions: Why you're doing it - "Slowing for the school zone"
Common Reasons for Failure
- ❌ Poor observation - Missing cyclists, pedestrians, or emerging vehicles
- ❌ Inappropriate speed - Driving too fast for conditions, not just exceeding limits
- ❌ Lack of planning - Late braking, sudden lane changes
- ❌ Hesitancy - Being too cautious and causing disruption to traffic flow
- ❌ Ineffective commentary - Simply describing what you see rather than analyzing
Preparation Tips
The Part 2 test is significantly harder than a standard driving test. Here's how to prepare effectively:
- Book professional training with an experienced ADI trainer (not just any driving instructor)
- Practice commentary driving on every journey, even when not in a lesson
- Drive in varied conditions - rural roads, dual carriageways, busy town centers
- Take mock tests with someone who understands the Part 2 standard
David's Expert Tip
"The biggest difference I see between those who pass and those who fail is anticipation. Examiners want to see you reading the road 12-15 seconds ahead, not just reacting to what's immediately in front of you. This level of forward planning takes practice and focused training."
After Part 2
Once you pass Part 2, you can move on to Part 3 - the instructional ability test. However, maintaining your high driving standard is crucial as you'll be demonstrating these skills to learners. Our comprehensive courses ensure you're prepared for all three tests.