DVSA has acknowledged that its services for approved and potential driving instructors are not performing as they should, as growing demand continues to put pressure on qualification tests and standards checks.
Applications to become an ADI have increased by 152% since 2018/19, while the Part 3 pass rate fell from 33.8% in 2023/24 to 27.7% in 2025/26. DVSA said the rise in applications, combined with more candidates retaking tests, has placed significant pressure on examiner capacity.
The agency also admitted that most ADIs did not receive a standards check during 2024/25, raising concerns about whether professional standards are being monitored consistently.
DVSA plans to recruit and train more ADI examiners, explore alternative routes into examiner roles and review the wider qualification journey. It also wants PDIs to begin developing their communication and teaching skills earlier, following concerns that too many candidates are reaching Part 3 without being fully prepared.
The agency warned that improvements will take time and that pressures are likely to continue in the coming months.
