ADI Part 1 band 4: Publications and instructional techniques
Publications and instructional techniques is one of the 4 question categories in the ADI Part 1 multiple-choice test. On this site we call it band 4, because it is fourth in the GOV.UK list.
What this category is
- These rules apply in Great Britain. The ADI part 1 test works differently in Northern Ireland. [1]
- The GOV.UK guidance names this category as "publications and instructional techniques". It is fourth in its list of 4 categories. [1]
- The guidance gives the category name only. It does not describe the topics inside it, so we do not add any. [1]
- The other categories are: road procedure; traffic signs and signals, car control, pedestrians and mechanical knowledge; driving test, disabilities, and the law. [1]
How many questions, and the score you need
- There are 25 questions in this category, out of 100 multiple-choice questions in 1 hour and 30 minutes. [1]
- You need at least 20 out of 25 in this category, so you can get no more than 5 wrong in it. [1]
- You also need at least 85 out of 100 overall. A score of 85 or higher overall still fails if this category is below 20. [1]
- If you fail, the letter you get at the test centre tells you which parts you did not score enough points on. [1]
What to study
- GOV.UK lists the publications for the multiple-choice questions as a whole, not for each category. The full list is on our theory test questions page. [1]
- You can also study using the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency theory test kit for approved driving instructors e-Learning. [1]
Sample band 4 questions
Our own practice questions, each checked against its GOV.UK source. These are not questions from the real test.
1. A learner who has driven before is new to you. Under Element 6.4.1 of the National standard for driver and rider training, how should you verify their learning status, where appropriate?
- By relying on the learner's own estimate of their ability
- By asking them to sit a mock theory test
- By using an assessment drive
- By starting them at lesson one whatever their experience
Show answer
C: By using an assessment drive
Element 6.4.1 says that where the learner has driven/ridden before but is new to you, you must be able to verify their learning status using an assessment drive/ride, where appropriate.
Source: National standard for driver and rider training, Element 6.4.1
2. The National standard for driving cars and light vans is split into roles, and each role is made up of units. Into what is each unit then split?
- Modules
- Roles
- Competence levels
- Elements
Show answer
D: Elements
The introduction says the standard is split into roles, each role is made up of more specific units, and each unit is then split into elements, each covering performance standards and knowledge and understanding requirements.
Source: National standard for driving cars and light vans, Introduction
3. Under the current ADI code of practice (a voluntary code), when does the instructor agree to accompany the client on their practical driving test and listen to the debrief?
- On every test, whether or not the client asks
- Never - instructors do not attend the test or the debrief
- Only when the examiner invites them
- When requested to do so by the client
Show answer
D: When requested to do so by the client
Under section 2 of the current voluntary code, the instructor agrees to accompany the client on their test and listen to the debrief when the client requests it.
Source: ADI code of practice (current voluntary code), section 2
4. According to Element 5.1.1 of the National standard for driving cars and light vans, in which situation is there an advantage in having an initial input from a competent instructor?
- When you return to driving after a break
- Only during the first month after passing your test
- Only when you renew your photocard driving licence
- When you drive a route you use every day
Show answer
A: When you return to driving after a break
Element 5.1.1 requires you to know the advantages of having an initial input from a competent instructor if you return to driving after a break or you change to an unfamiliar vehicle.
Source: National standard for driving cars and light vans, Element 5.1.1
5. On driving in an ecologically responsible (eco-safe) way, what does the National standard for driving cars and light vans say about safety and economy?
- A small reduction in safety is acceptable if it gives a large fuel saving
- You should never reduce safety to improve economy
- Economy should take priority over safety on motorways
- Safety and economy carry equal weight, so either can be traded for the other
Show answer
B: You should never reduce safety to improve economy
Element 4.2.3 says you must know that you should never reduce safety to improve economy.
Source: National standard for driving cars and light vans, Element 4.2.3
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