ADI Training - Examiner Assessment

The competition drive, as it was once known, is much harder than the Part 2 test. It is a drive over varying road conditions and speeds; it will last around 1 hour; you should strive for fewer than four driving faults; there should not be two of the same type of fault.

The format is similar to the Part 2, in that, you will demonstrate all manoeuvres as well as the right reverse.

At the time of the test you will be expected to demonstrate arm signals as you are driving.

The examiner is looking for a close to perfect drive, there is a great deal of competition, and there is no time on the examiners course for driver training, so make sure you are at the required standard beforehand.

Remember, the examiner training is teaching you how to examine and not how to drive.

What should you wear?

You will be assessed on your attire so do not turn up as if you have just left work.

Smart is acceptable, casual is not. For men, wear a shirt and tie (jacket not required) black trousers and clean shoes. For ladies, similar clothing. If you are unsure, contact your local Test Centre.

It's an interview

You are conducting a driving test, but the examiner is interviewing you for a job as well. During the drive, you will be asked questions about your career aspirations and views of the DSA; your attitude and response to the answers will be gauged and recorded. Even if you pass the drive, having a negative attitude towards the debrief may mean that you are not selected for further training.

Be courteous but not aloof, the examiner is looking to hold a conversation with you during the drive. If you cannot talk and drive at the same time, you should get some practice.

Formality

The complete test is in itself a formal affair. Even so, the examiner will try to make you relaxed, he will address you by your forename and you can call him by his forename after he has invited you to do so but try not to call him mate.

The Test Car

You will be assessed in a DSA hire car; it will be a mid-sized manual car, probably 1600cc. There will be no 'L plates' or vehicle signage to indicate that you are on test.

If you arrive at the test centre before you need to be there, you might be lucky and get to drive it around before the assessment, but more likely you will just start driving immediately.

There should be no doubt in your mind that you will struggle to pass this test unless you get advanced training from a highly skilled ADI trainer. If you are unsuccessful, you will not be invited to take another competition drive for around 6 months. If you have set your heart on becoming qualified as a DSA examiner, do not waste this opportunity, get the correct training from someone who can help you, your trainer should be getting you up to Cardington Special Test standard, make sure you get a trainer who has passed with an ‘A grade’ (someone like me).

For more information on how to get the best out of your competition drive, have a look at my advice by visiting my website: http://www.byiast.co.uk.