So, you’ve decided you want to become a driving instructor! That’s fantastic news! Honestly, there is nothing quite like the feeling of helping a nervous learner finally nail that parallel park or seeing the pure joy on their face when they pass their test. Whether you’re looking to provide manual driving lessons in Glasgow or you're interested in the growing demand for automatic driving lessons in Glasgow, the journey starts right here with your ADI Part 1 test.
I’m Penny, and today I’m going to walk you through everything you need to know to smash your Part 1 Theory and Hazard Perception test on the very first go. At Allison Driver Academy, we’ve helped so many people across Glasgow, Lanarkshire, and Renfrewshire transition into this rewarding career. We know exactly where the pitfalls are and how to avoid them!
Before we dive in, it’s worth noting that when you train with us, you’ll be supported by a team that includes both fully qualified instructors and trainee (PDI) instructors. This mix of experience means you get a real-world look at the industry from day one!
What Exactly is the ADI Part 1 Test?
Think of the ADI Part 1 as the "super-sized" version of the learner theory test. It’s much more in-depth because, as an instructor, you don’t just need to know the rules, you need to understand the why and the how behind them.
The test is split into two distinct parts:
- Multiple-choice questions
- Hazard perception
You take both parts on the same day at a DVSA test centre (like the ones in Glasgow, such as Anniesland or Shieldhall). You need to pass both parts in the same sitting to get that overall "Pass" result. If you fail one, you’ll have to resit both, so it’s worth putting in the effort to get it right the first time!
Part A: The Multiple-Choice Questions
The first part consists of 100 questions. You have 90 minutes to complete them, which is usually plenty of time if you’ve done your revision. However, the scoring is a bit more complex than the learner test. The questions are divided into four "bands" (categories), with 25 questions in each:
- Road procedure: Junctions, motorways, and general rules.
- Traffic signs, signals, car control, and mechanical knowledge: Knowing your "no entry" from your "give way," plus how the car actually works!
- The driving test, disabilities, and the law: Legal requirements and how to help learners with specific needs.
- Publications and instructional techniques: This is the "teaching" side, lesson planning and how to explain things clearly.
The Pass Mark: You need an overall score of at least 85 out of 100. But here’s the kicker: you also need to score at least 20 out of 25 in each of the four bands. You could get 95% overall, but if you only score 19 in one band, it’s a fail. This is why a balanced study plan is so important for your driving instructor training!
Part B: The Hazard Perception Test
Once you’ve finished the questions, you’ll move on to the hazard perception section. You’ll watch 14 video clips showing various road scenes. Your job is to click as soon as you see a "developing hazard", something that would cause you to change speed or direction.
- 13 clips have one developing hazard.
- 1 clip has two developing hazards (and you won’t know which one it is!).
- Scoring: You can score up to 5 points per hazard. The earlier you spot it, the higher your score.
- The Pass Mark: You need to score at least 57 out of 75.
(Pro tip: Don’t just click like a maniac! If the computer thinks you’re clicking randomly or in a pattern, you’ll score zero for that clip. Be precise!)
Top Resources for Your Revision
You wouldn't head out for fleet driver assessments without a plan, and you shouldn't tackle Part 1 without the right books! To give yourself the best chance, you should be reading:
- The Highway Code: Your absolute bible.
- Know Your Traffic Signs: Because even the most experienced drivers forget what some of the obscure ones mean!
- Driving – The Essential Skills: The DVSA’s guide to, well, everything.
- The Driving Instructor’s Handbook: Essential for that fourth band (instructional techniques).
At Allison Driver Academy, we provide our trainees with a dedicated student portal and theory support pack to help keep all this information organized. Whether you're in the heart of Glasgow or out in the beautiful areas of Lanarkshire or Renfrewshire, our online tools mean you can study whenever it suits you.
How to Study Like a Pro
- Don't Cram: There is too much information to absorb in a weekend. Aim for 30–60 minutes of study a day over several weeks.
- Mock Tests are Your Best Friend: Use apps and software to take timed mock tests. This helps you get used to the pressure and the 4-band scoring system.
- Know Your Area: If you’re training to be a driving school in Lanarkshire or Renfrewshire, pay attention to the specific road types in the hazard clips. Think about the rural roads and busy Glasgow intersections you’ll eventually be teaching on!
- Ask for Help: This is where driving instructor training with a mentor really pays off. If a specific "Road Procedure" question is tripping you up, David or one of our senior instructors can explain it in a way that actually makes sense.
Why Choose Allison Driver Academy for Your ADI Journey?
Becoming an ADI is a big step, and you shouldn't have to do it alone. We offer comprehensive support for Parts 1, 2, and 3. We are a local driving school in Renfrewshire, Lanarkshire, and Glasgow with over 15 years of experience.
When you join us, you aren't just a number. You get:
- One-on-one mentorship: Real advice from people who are out on the roads every day.
- Flexible scheduling: We know you might be juggling another job while you train.
- Progress tracking: Use our student portal to see exactly how close you are to being ready for the big day.
- Local expertise: We know the Glasgow test routes and waiting times inside out!
We also provide B+E trailer training and fleet assessments, so you'll be part of a diverse and highly skilled team. Whether you eventually want to teach driving lessons in Glasgow or branch out into specialist training, we’ve got the foundation you need.
Ready to Get Started?
Passing your ADI Part 1 is the gateway to a career with freedom, flexibility, and a whole lot of job satisfaction. Don't let the theory test intimidate you: with the right preparation and a bit of friendly guidance from the team at Allison Driver Academy, you'll be checking that "Pass" box in no time!
If you're ready to take the first step toward your new career in Glasgow, Lanarkshire, or Renfrewshire, we'd love to hear from you.
Click here to learn more about our ADI Training and start your journey today!
We can't wait to welcome you to the team!
Meta Description: Thinking of becoming a driving instructor in Glasgow? Pass your ADI Part 1 Theory Test first time with our complete guide on bands, hazard perception, and tips!