DVSA Updates & ADI Standards

Keeping up with DVSA requirements is essential for every approved driving instructor. Whether it's changes to the standards check criteria, updates to the ADI register process, or new guidance on Part 3 assessments, we break down what matters and what it means for your day-to-day teaching.

5 articles

dvsa9 min read

Driving instructor code of practice: what the new mandatory ADI code means for your business

DVSA has published a new mandatory ADI code of practice, due between late 2026 and early 2027. What it requires on terms, records, prepaid money, pass-rate adverts, phones and penalty points, with a compliance checklist.

Read
dvsa10 min read

The driving test black market and your diary: why DVSA's fix won't be enough

Web traffic on DVSA's booking system rose five-fold in a year as bots piled in, and learners paid resellers up to £500 for a £62 test. DVSA's May 2026 rules removed instructor booking access but left the bot problem in place. What the black market means for ADIs, and what to do with your diary while you wait.

Read
dvsa8 min read

The 4 DVSA trigger points that get you called for a standards check

DVSA monitors 4 indicators from your pupils' driving tests over a rolling 12 months. Hit the trigger point on 3 of them and DVSA writes asking you to book a standards check. Here are the real thresholds, how they're measured and what to do about them.

Read
dvsa6 min read

ADI DBS renewal in 2026: the CBS provider switch explained

DVSA moved the criminal record check for ADI renewals from First Advantage to Complete Background Screening (CBS) in early 2026. The check costs £5.40, comes before the £300 renewal, and you can only renew in the month your registration runs out.

Read
dvsa7 min read

DVSA standards check: how to prepare and pass

The standards check replaced the ADI check test on 7 April 2014. The real grade bands (Grade A 43-51, Grade B 31-42, fail 30 or less), the 17 competencies on DVSA's marking sheet, how often checks happen and how to prepare.

Read