The check test: staying on the register.
Qualifying was Stage 3. Staying qualified is a lesson observed every cycle — the 16 competencies, the four levels, and how the day runs.
The check test is a free, RSA-initiated competency assessment: you deliver a normal lesson while an examiner observes, demonstrating 16 core plus at least 5 non-core competencies. You get at least 28 days’ notice, the reported pass rate is around 69%, and results escalate through four levels — the fourth being the last stop before removal from the register.
0
core competencies
0+
non-core required
~69%
reported pass rate
0
days minimum notice
What the check test is.
A spot check on professional standards — not an exam you book.
The RSA conducts check tests as spot checks to make sure professional teaching standards hold across the ADI register. The format is straightforward: you deliver a normal lesson to an existing or former pupil while one or two RSA examiners observe from the rear seat.
Unlike the stage exams, you don’t book a check test — the RSA initiates it and gives at least 28 days’ notice. The competency standard is the same one examined in Stage 3 of the qualification, and registration itself renews every two years (€250).
For the teaching skills being assessed, see our guides on taking a coaching approach and how to be a great driving instructor.
The four levels of assessment.
An escalating ladder — each level carries heavier consequences than the last.
Routine check
The standard experience: an examiner observes a normal lesson and gives verbal feedback afterwards. Most ADIs never see beyond this level.
Formal assessment
A structured evaluation with written assessment — areas for improvement are formally documented and expected to be addressed.
Re-test
Reportedly six to eight weeks after an unsuccessful Level 2. The examiner is looking for clear evidence of improvement in the recorded weak areas.
Final opportunity
The last formal chance before potential removal from the register — and with it, the ability to teach for reward.
Dual category rule: registered for two vehicle categories? Only one check test is required — the RSA chooses which category it assesses.
The 16 core competencies.
Tick each one you could demonstrate naturally in tomorrow’s first lesson — your progress saves in this browser.
0 of 16 reviewed
1. Lesson planning
A structured plan with clear objectives, tailored to this pupil’s level and progress.2. Setting learning objectives
Achievable goals agreed with the pupil at the start of the lesson.3. Communication
Clear, concise instruction in language matched to the pupil’s understanding.4. Instruction delivery
Well-timed, well-paced input that supports without overloading.5. Route selection
Routes matched to ability, introducing new challenges progressively.6. Risk management
Spotting and managing risk throughout, intervening when safety requires.7. Teaching the controls
Effective instruction on steering, pedals, gears and all vehicle controls.8. Teaching observation
Mirrors, blind spots and scanning taught as habits, not theatre.9. Feedback & assessment
Constructive, timely feedback on what went well and what needs work.10. Encouraging self-assessment
Prompting the pupil to reflect before you deliver the verdict.11. Student-centred approach
Adapting to the pupil’s learning style, pace and confidence.12. Fault analysis
Finding the cause behind the error and correcting it constructively.13. Q&A technique
Open and closed questions that check understanding and drive active learning.14. Recap & summary
Key points closed out at the end and linked to the next objective.15. Professional conduct
Patient, encouraging and professional from first minute to last.16. Adaptability
Adjusting plan and style as the pupil’s performance changes mid-lesson.Preparation tips.
How to prepare without over-preparing.
Deliver the planned lesson for that pupil.
The examiner checks your logbook, so the lesson should match what you had already scheduled — don’t over-plan or teach differently than you normally would.
Know the failure patterns.
Over-planning, artificial performance, weak competency knowledge, and failing to demonstrate the core competencies naturally in the observed lesson.
Prepare the vehicle.
Clean, legal, and with rear seating for up to two RSA staff. Your pupil must hold a valid learner permit.
Study the official documents.
The RSA Guide to the Check Test and the Stage 3 test report form both set out the competencies and criteria the examiner marks against.
Refresh the craft.
Work the 8-step refresher checklist and our guide on taking a coaching approach to strengthen the student-centred skills the examiner watches for.
On the day.
What happens when the RSA arrives.
Arrive as normal with your car and your pupil, and deliver the pre-planned lesson naturally — the examiner verifies it against your logbook, so changing your approach for the observer is itself a red flag.
Up to two RSA staff may observe from the rear seat. They are assessing your teaching competence, not your pupil’s driving — a structured, student-centred lesson that shows the core competencies naturally is the whole assignment.
If the outcome is unsatisfactory, a re-test typically follows in six to eight weeks, and persistent failure climbs the levels toward removal from the register. For keeping the standard up between tests, see how to be a great driving instructor.
Quick questions
No — it is free. The only recurring cost of ADI status is the €250 registration renewal every two years.
There is no fixed schedule — the RSA initiates them as spot checks. The reliable strategy is teaching to standard every day, not preparing when the letter arrives.
Yes — an existing or former pupil with a valid learner permit. If they fail to show, the examiner substitutes a scenario and the test proceeds.
Reported at roughly 69%, up from about 64% in 2010 — meaning close to a third of instructors face a re-test.
The RSA gives at least 28 days’ notice. You cannot book or schedule a check test yourself — the RSA initiates every one, so the real preparation is keeping your normal lessons at the standard.
A re-test follows, typically within six to eight weeks, and results escalate through the four levels. Level 4 is the final opportunity before removal from the register.
No — one check test covers you, and the RSA chooses which category it assesses.
Stay sharp between check tests.
The pedagogy bank and lesson-plan guides double as your between-check-tests refresher.
Not affiliated with the RSA