Cardington Special Test

The Cardington Special Test is specifically for Approved Driving Instructors (ADIs) who as part of their Continued Professional Development (CPD) want to demonstrate that they have a high standard of driving competence, which they maintain.

The Cardington Special Test is conducted in the instructor’s own car, which can be either a manual or automatic. You can also use an adapted car if you have a disability. As with all tests an interior instructor’s mirror and integral head restraints must be fitted for the driver and the examiner. You must be able to read a registration plate from a distance of 27.5 metres [67 feet] whilst wearing glasses or contact lenses if normally worn when driving.

Candidates must be able to demonstrate a positive, courteous attitude and the ability to control the position and speed of the vehicle, safely, systematically and smoothly. A high consistent driving competence based on concentration, effective observation, anticipation and planning is expected. In particular you must demonstrate.The test is carried out at the Driving Vehicle Standards Agency (DSVA) Training Centre, Cardington, Bedfordshire, by one of the specialist DVSA training staff. The test involves about 90 minutes driving on all types of road, including a motorway and in a variety of traffic situations.

ADIs have to demonstrate a positive, courteous attitude and the ability to control the position and speed of the vehicle safely, systematically and smoothly. A high consistent standard of driving competence based on concentration, effective observation, anticipation and planning is expected. In particular, you must demonstrate:

  • expert handling of controls
  • use of correct road procedure
  • anticipation of the action of other road users and taking appropriate action
  • sound judgement of distance, speed and timing
  • consideration for the convenience and safety of other road users

You will also be asked to demonstrate your ability to perform all or any of the following manoeuvres:

  • move away smoothly from rest, to include wherever possible, the ability to move off on reasonably steep uphill and downhill gradients
  • moving away at an angle, having pulled up behind a stationary vehicle
  • overtaking, meeting and crossing the path of other vehicles taking an appropriate course
  • stopping the vehicle as in an emergency
  • reverse parking exercise on the road
  • in car park either driving forward or reversing out of space
  • Parking facing oncoming traffic

Further Information