How to Become an ADI

The Road Safety Authority (RSA) is the regulatory body for driving instruction in Ireland. Persons who meet the standard set by the RSA will become Approved Driving Instructors (ADI). If you wish to become an ADI you must first satisfy the Registrar that you are a person of good character.

There are also many specific requirements, for example you must...
  • Be tax compliant and in possession of a tax clearance certificate
  • Hold a full driving licence for the category in which you wish to give instruction for a minimum of two years
  • All instructors looking for ADI status must go through the Garda vetting process.
  • Pass all tests and undertake a check test of continued ability to instruct periodically

    There are three stages to the ADI exam:
    1. Theory test
    2. Practical driving test
    3. Instructional ability test.

    Stage 1
  • The theory test (part 1) is carried out locally at one of their 41 test centres nationwide you can choose a centre that is most convenient to you.Once you receive your eligibility number from the ADI unit, you can make an appointment via the online booking page or by calling in the information and booking line

    Stage 2
  • The stage 2 driving test assesses your driving ability. This is assessed against a longer, more comprehensive driving test than the test a learner driver takes. The test takes between 60 and 100 minutes depending on the category being applied for, and covers 25-30 kilometers in distance.
    When the test is fully completed the test examiner will give you the result and offer feedback on your performance. You must pass stage 2 before you can continue to stage 3.

    The Stage 3
  • The stage 3 instruction ability test examines your ability to deliver tuition or coaching to a learner driver relevant to their level of skill and experience.

    There are two phases to this test.
  • Phase 1 will examine your ability to instruct at an appropriate level for a beginner in one of a variety of topics.
  • Phase 2 will examine your ability to instruct at an appropriate level for a learner driver at driving test standard.
  • Each phase lasts 30 minutes. You should receive your result of stage 3 within ten working days.

Existing Qualifications
If you can show that you meet the RSA ADI standard because of qualifications you already hold, there is no need for you to qualify all over again, this is something that the RSA needs to verify.  Depending on what qualifications you hold, you may be entitled to an exemption from one or all exam stages.

Fees:
There is a fee for each phase of the application process, including any re-test following a section test fail.

FETAC Awards in Driving Instruction
FETAC has now, as a result, approved five awards in driving instruction. All of them are Special Purpose Awards rated at national framework qualification.

Passing the three-part test not only entitles you work as an
ADI. it is a valuable educational qualification in its own right. 

The RSA has worked with FETAC (Further Education & Training Awards Council) – the national body for further educational awards and representatives of the industry to document the standard and skills needed to become an ADI.

Level 6:
Your role as an ADI issued by the RSA
Your role and responsibilities  as a
learner driver, issued by the RSA
 This video outlines the role of the sponsor
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ADI Training Material
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Driving Tuition Supplies
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Teaching Aids
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Dual Controls
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RSA ADI Advertising
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Driving Instructor Mirrors
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Driving Instructor Workwear