ADI FAQs

How many theory tests are there?: There is a test for licence category A, B, C, D, EC.
How do I apply to take the test?: By going to www.theorytest.ie or telephone 1890 606 106 (Lo Call Rate).
How many test centres are there?: There are of 41 locations around the country served by either permanent centres or mobile testing centres.
What happens when I get to the Centre?: The Test Centre staff will check your documentation (confirmation letter) confirm your identity (valid/current drivers licence or passport). You will then be signed in and shown to a work station to complete the test. View Test Experience video »
What material do I need to study in order to pass the test?: This information can be found in the ADI Information Booklet, page 11 available from the RSA:
Contact number – 096 25007
Email – adi@rsa.ie
Website – www.rsa.ie
How long will the test take?: This will depend on the number of licence categories being taken. Core section plus one licence category will take approximately 1hour 40minutes. Please allow approx. 20 minutes for each subsequent category.
How many questions are in the test?: The test consists of 2 sections, a core section which is taken by all candidates and a category section (or sections) which relates to the driving category(s) in which you instruct. The sections of the exam which are delivered reflect those in which you have applied and have been approved to take by the RSA. You will need to contact the RSA to confirm the test categories or refer to the letter issued by the RSA.
If I don’t know my eligibility number can I still book a test?: Yes - if you provide your personal details we can search to see what your eligibility number is and make a test booking. If this cannot be located you will have to contact the RSA to request an eligibility number.
Do I have to pay for the test?: Payment is made to the RSA for the complete ADI registration process you do not have to make payment when booking the theory test, all you require is your eligibility number.
Can I reschedule my test appointment?: Yes – you can reschedule your test appointment providing the request is made 5 working days prior to the test appointment.
I’m only taking one category of the test so why is my appointment 2.5 hours?: We just take an average appointment time for the test which is 2½ hours for all exams, when you sit the exam at the centre your time allowance is controlled by the system and you will be allowed the correct time for the exam.
If I pass the first part of the exam and fail the second part do I have to re-sit the whole exam?: Yes – you need to pass both sections of the exam in one sitting to be awarded a pass.
If I have already passed a test with a category do I need to take the first section again if I want to be qualified for another category?: No – once you have passed the core section with a category you will not be required to sit the core section again.
I am not very computer literate, will this be a problem?: The test is presented in a very easy to use format and usually poses no problems for candidates with limited experience using computers. A simple tutorial is presented at the beginning of the test which will explain how the test works. The test can be taken with an easy to use touch screen, or by using a mouse and keyboard.
Is there a practice session so I can get familiar with the exam and computer system?: Yes – there is a short practice section which takes you through the navigation of the exam on screen.
What if I make a mistake can I change my mind?: Yes – there is a simple way to cancel your answer and select another.
If I get stuck can I miss questions out?: Yes – you can skip questions and come back to them later.
If I finish the test early can I leave?: Yes.
How will I know that I have passed?: You will get a notification on performance at the test centre. The official results will be issued by the RSA.
If I fail, will I be told where I went wrong?: Yes – you will be supplied with a breakdown of your exam by section and category.
What if I miss my test appointment?: If you fail to arrive at the centre or cancel within 5 days of your test appointment you will lose your test fee. You will need to then contact the RSA to reset your eligibility.
What if I fail? How soon can I take the test again?: You will have to wait at least three days to reapply.
Will I have to pay again?: You will need to contact the RSA to authorise payment.
Is there a limit on how many times I can take the test?: The number of attempts permitted for this test is not restricted except that all three stages of the ADI examination process must be completed within two years of the application date.
If I pass what do I do then?: Having successfully completed the theory test you will move to stage two of the ADI qualification process.
Who provides the ADI Theory Test?: The ADI Theory Test is provided by Prometric Ireland Limited, on behalf of the Road Safety Authority.