ADI Cheat Sheet 2026

The 30 highest-yield ADI facts, distilled from real exam questions. Print it, save it as a PDF, or study it here — free, no sign-up.

1. How long does the independent driving section of the UK driving test last? → About 20 minutes — approximately half the total driving test time
2. A sign with a red circle and two horizontal white bars of different lengths means: → No entry for vehicles
3. In hazard perception theory, a 'latent hazard' differs from a developing hazard in that: → It is a situation that has potential to develop into a hazard but has not yet done so
4. What is the effect of carrying excessive weight on a vehicle beyond its maximum payload? → Increased stopping distances, altered handling, tyre damage and potential MOT failure
5. The 'two-second rule' for following distance should be extended to how many seconds in wet conditions? → 4 seconds
6. What is the most effective first aid measure to control severe external bleeding? → Apply firm direct pressure to the wound
7. What does traction control (TC) do when a driven wheel begins to spin? → It reduces engine power or applies the brake to the spinning wheel to regain traction
8. When following a large vehicle such as an HGV, why should you leave a greater gap than normal? → Because your forward view is restricted and braking distances for the HGV are greater
9. A driver should use the PSL (Position-Speed-Look) routine primarily when: → Approaching and negotiating junctions, bends and hazards
10. When should you call 999 at the scene of a road accident? → As soon as it is safe to do so
11. What is the purpose of the MOT test in the UK? → To check that the vehicle meets minimum roadworthiness standards required by law
12. Which group of cyclists is hardest for drivers to see and requires extra vigilance at junctions? → Cyclists who are filtering between lanes or emerging from the left of large vehicles
13. At traffic lights, what does a green filter arrow mean? → Traffic may proceed in the direction of the arrow, even if the main light is red
14. A 'red route' stopping restriction (red lines) in London means: → No stopping at any time during the hours indicated — even briefly
15. Power-assisted steering (PAS) failure is usually first noticed when: → The steering becomes very heavy and difficult to turn, especially at low speeds
16. A catalytic converter reduces which emissions from a petrol engine? → Carbon monoxide (CO), hydrocarbons (HC) and nitrogen oxides (NOx)
17. What is the minimum legal tread depth for car tyres in the UK? → 1.6 mm across the central 75% of the width around the full circumference
18. An ADI is required to renew their registration with DVSA every: → 4 years
19. When driving in a one-way street, where should you position before turning right? → In the right-hand lane, as near to the right as possible
20. A circular sign with a red border and a figure of a walker crossing means: → No pedestrians — they are prohibited from this road
21. A fire breaks out in a vehicle following a collision. What should you do? → Move casualties well away from the vehicle before calling 999
22. When following a vehicle at night, why is it important not to over-drive your headlights? → The driver must be able to stop within the distance illuminated by their headlights
23. How often should tyre pressures be checked? → At least monthly and before any long journey
24. What is the correct signal to use when you intend to move off from the left-hand side of the road? → Right indicator signal given before moving out
25. A flashing amber light at a pelican crossing means: → Give way to pedestrians still on the crossing before proceeding
26. A triangular road sign with a red border indicates: → A warning of a hazard ahead
27. Which fluid level should be checked as part of routine vehicle safety before a long journey? → Engine oil, coolant, brake fluid, power steering fluid and screenwash
28. What is the FIRST thing you should do when arriving at the scene of a road accident? → Make the scene safe
29. What does the engine management warning light (amber) indicate? → A fault has been detected in the engine management system that requires investigation
30. Which dashboard symbol indicates the engine coolant temperature is dangerously high? → Red thermometer symbol or needle in the red zone