Professional drivers

4. Stage 1: ADI Theory test

The stage 1 ADI theory test examines your knowledge of topics such as:

the Rules of the Road
road safety precepts and practice
the RSA Approved Driving Instructor (ADI) scheme
pedagogical techniques and assessment of pupils
interpersonal skills
knowledge of the Essential Driver Training (EDT) programme
correction of pupils driving faults
driver testing procedures and documentation.

The test is similar in format to the multiple-choice theory test for learner drivers. The number and type of questions will depend on the number and type of licence categories of instruction you apply for. The ADI theory test is computer-based and user-friendly. You can choose to sit it at one of the 40+ theory test centres nationwide.

You will receive a report on your performance at the end of the theory test. You must pass stage 1 before you can continue to stages 2 and 3. The number of attempts permitted for the theory test is unlimited. All three parts of the test process must be completed within two years of successfully completing the theory test.

Study material for your ADI theory test

As an ADI you would be expected to have a better knowledge and understanding of driving theory than an average driver. You can view some sample ADI Stage 1 Theory Test questions here.

When preparing for your ADI theory test you will find it useful to review and revise some of the official theory test learning and practice material available. You will find material across all vehicle categories.

You can purchase online learning subscriptions, books, CD-ROMs and an App.

The Rules of the Road are for all road users - drivers, pedestrians, motorcyclists and others. The rules form the basis of road safety in Ireland and you must know them well to pass your driver theory test. The printed book is available at bookshops nationwide.

Rules of the Road( English) pdf | 19605 KB

Format	Resource
Printed Book	The Official RSA Driver Theory Test book includes a wide range of theory test questions and answers that feature on the official test.
CD-ROM	The Official RSA Driver Theory Test CD provides all the information you need to pass your test and drive safely on the roads.
DVD	The Official RSA Driver Theory Test Questions and Answers Motorcycles, Cars and Work Vehicles June 2017 Edition - with Sign Language.
Web	The Official Driver Theory Test Online is a web-based training solution that combines all the latest tools and resources to help you pass your test. You can register here.
App	The Driver Theory Test Learning App offers you unlimited access to the Official RSA Driver Theory Test learning material and tracks your progress.

Theory test locations

You can take your ADI theory test at one of our 40+ theory test centre locations nationwide.

Fees for the stage 1 ADI theory test

The fee for sitting the stage 1 ADI theory test is currently €150.00.

How to book a stage 1 ADI theory test

Before you book your stage 1 ADI theory test, make sure you have:

registered with the RSA as an ADI candidate
paid your theory test fee of €150.00
received your unique eligibility number from the RSA
familiarised yourself with the ADI Information Pack and The Driving Instructor's Handbook
checked the test centre locations, if applicable
checked and prepared your ID requirements

If you have not yet registered as an ADI candidate, please complete the ADI Application Form to start the process.

If you're ready, you can go ahead and book your ADI theory test now.

Book your theory test

Repeating your stage 1 ADI theory test

You may repeat the ADI theory test as often as you wish. However, you must complete the remaining two stages of the test process, driving test and instruction ability test, within two years of successfully completing the ADI theory test. Otherwise you will have to pay for and sit the ADI theory test again.

Frequently asked questions

What is the Prometric Eligibility Number and how can I get one?

Prometric is the preferred service provider to the RSA for the stage 1 ADI theory test. You will need a unique 9-digit Prometric Eligibility Number to book your stage 1 ADI theory test online.

You will receive your unique number once you have successfully registered with the RSA as an ADI candidate and your Garda vetting has been approved. The fee for your ADI theory test will be €150 which you are required to pay directly to Prometric. You can contact them to book this test by phoning 0818 606 106 or you can go online to book your ADI theory test.

How can I query my ADI theory test results?

You can request a rescore of your stage 1 ADI theory test by calling 0818 606 106 (lo-call rate) to speak to our Candidate Service Team. They are available Monday to Friday from 8am to 6pm (excluding public holidays).

You will be asked to complete a test appeals which can be returned via email. Please note: you can only appeal a test result within 10 days of your exam.

The fee for this process is €15.00. Acceptable payment methods are: cheque or postal order made payable to Prometric Ireland.

I failed the Stage 1 theory test - how can I request a new theory test?

You will have to wait at least three complete business days before you are able to re-sit your stage 1 ADI theory test. You can apply online but you will first have to request a new Prometric eligibility number by completing this form.