The tests of driving ability and ability to instruct are held in Belfast and Londonderry. Tests are arranged as necessary to meet demand. You will normally be given at least 3 weeks notice of this date. Send your application to the Register of Approved Driving Instructors.
Download Test of Driving Ability Application Form (pdf 19kb, opens in new window)
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The practical test of driving ability consists of tests of both eyesight and driving technique. The test lasts for about 1 hour. You must pass both parts of the test at the same time.
The test of eyesight
You must be able to read a be able to read in good daylight with the aid of glasses or contact lenses if worn, a motor vehicle registration mark containing letters and figures:-
- 79 millimetres in height and 50 millimetres wide at a distance of 26.5 metres; or
- 79 millimetres in height and 57 millimetres wide at a distance of 27.5 metres.
If you do not pass the eyesight test, you will not be allowed to take the driving ability test.
The test of driving ability
This test is not just a slightly more difficult 'L' test. It is of an advanced nature and a very high standard of competence is required. You must show that you have a thorough knowledge of the principles of good driving and road safety and that you can apply them in practice. In particular you must satisfy the Examiner on all or any of the following subjects:
- expert handling of the controls;
- use of correct road procedure;
- anticipation of the actions of other road users and the taking of appropriate action;
- sound judgment of distance, speed and timing; and
- consideration for the convenience and safety of other road users.
The routes used for the test will include roads which may carry heavy traffic or fast moving traffic, for example motorways or fast dual carriageways. The routes will be both inside and outside built-up areas.
You will also have to demonstrate your ability to perform on 5 occasions a check on the condition and safety of one component of the vehicle. Checks will be chosen from a list of the components, e.g. tyres, steering, etc. Failure to answer questions correctly will accrue driving faults.
Occasionally the Examiner's Supervisor may wish to come along as well. Don't worry, they will not be concerned with your performance but with the examiner's and will take no part in the conduct of the test.
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You must drive in a brisk business-like way. You should aim to drive as you normally do and not try to put on an act for the Examiner. You must drive safely and within the legal limits. You must show the ability to perform any or all of the following manoeuvres:
- move away straight ahead or at an angle;
- overtake, meet or cross the path of other vehicles and take an appropriate course without undue hesitancy;
- turn left-hand and right-hand corners correctly without undue hesitancy;
- stop the vehicle as in an emergency;
- drive the vehicle in reverse gear and whilst doing so enter a limited opening to the right and to the left;
- turn the vehicle to face in the opposite direction by the use of forward and reverse gears; and
- park close to the kerb, using forward and reverse gears.
- park in a parking bay, using forward and reverse gears.
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Some common causes for failure include:
- lack of progress (particularly on dual-carriageways and motorways);
- failure to avoid or correct skidding in the emergency stop exercise;
- failure to use observation correctly or to get the timing right in the turn round or reversing exercise;
- inconveniencing other road users;
- using signals which are excessive, unnecessary or misleading; and
- lack of effective observation at junctions, including those controlled by traffic lights.
- lack of observation during manoeuvres.
This is only a small selection of faults. There are many more reasons for failing the test but these are the most common.
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You must provide a car for the test and prove that it is properly taxed, insured and MOT'd if necessary.
The car must comply with the following vehicle requirements:-
- It must be a saloon or estate car in proper working condition.
- It must be capable of the normal performance of vehicles of its type with manual transmission, right hand steering and a readily adjustable driving seat and seat for a forward-facing front passenger.
- The car should be free from advertisements and signs which could cause other road users to give it special consideration.
If the vehicle does not meet these requirements the test will not proceed. The car may be going onto a motorway or fast dual carriageway, so make sure that any roof signs are removed.
- Cars must be fitted with an appropriate head restraint for the front passenger seat,
- a seat belt for the front and rear passenger seats in working order, and,
- a rear view mirror, for use by the Examiner from the front passenger seat.
Peugeot 206 Recall
Peugeot has announced a safety-related recall of all 206 models (except the SW model) built before February 2002 because they have identified a fault that in very rare circumstances could affect the braking system.
DSA carried out a risk assessment and decided not to conduct tests in the cars affected until they have been checked and, if necessary, repaired under the recall arrangements.
DVTA's approach, until now, was to wait and establish the extent and uptake of the recall. However, after discussion with the manufacturers it appears that there are still some vehicles in Northern Ireland which have not been checked. It is therefore our intention to put procedures in place similar to DSA.
From this date any customer with a Peugeot 206 affected that has a 2002 or earlier registration must produce documentary evidence from Peugeot that the car has been examined (and repaired where necessary) before being allowed to use it for a driving test.
We are sorry for any inconvenience that this may cause.
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All driving faults relating to a particular marking item will be recorded. More than 6 driving faults recorded during a test will cause the candidate to fail the test. One or more serious or dangerous faults will also result in a failed test.
The Examiner will give his decision and provide written confirmation at the end of the test.
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How to become an ADI: Driving Ability
Test Locations and Availability