Become an Approved Driving Instructor (ADI)

Driving instructors who meet the standard set by the RSA will become Approved Driving Instructors (ADI).

To work as a professional driving instructor in Ireland delivering lessons in any category of vehicle, you must be on the RSA official register of Approved Driving Instructors (ADI) and hold a valid permit.

On your application form for an Approved Driving Instructor (ADI) permit you will be asked to prove that you are normally resident in Ireland and have a valid address and personal public services number (PPSN).

As well as meeting the requirements of the RSA qualification process, an applicant must satisfy the ADI Registrar of their good repute.

The stage 1 theory test examines your knowledge of the Rules of the Road as well as general road safety and driving instruction matters.

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 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.

When you have successfully passed all three stages (or get an exemption for some or all stages) you may be registered as an RSA Approved Driving Instructor (ADI).

You must renew your Approved Driving Instructor registration with the RSA every two years. This involves taking and passing a check test to ensure that driving and instructional ability standards are being maintained