Test suspensions due to Covid 19
The DVA has suspended delivery of the ADI and AMI qualifying tests until 22 June 2020.
This includes the ADI and AMI theory test, practical test of driving ability and practical test of instructional ability. Tests are currently suspended until 22 June 2020.
Check tests for fully qualified ADIs and AMIs are also suspended for the same period.
DVA is acting on public health advice in suspending these tests. They involve close contact in enclosed spaces and do not meet the social distancing guidelines in place to delay the spread of Covid-19.
ADI and AMI tests scheduled for before 22 June 2020
If you have a test booked for before 22 June 2020, your test will not take place. It will be rescheduled when tests are available again, or you may apply for a refund online. Further instructions will be published on NIDirect in the coming days advising of next steps.
ADI and AMI tests scheduled for after 22 June 2020
If you have a test booked for after 22 June 2020, your appointment will not be cancelled for now. However, DVA will continue to review the position and will update this page if the situation changes.
Becoming an AMI
When you first apply, an enhanced security check will be carried out by Access NI (ANI). Once completed, Driver & Vehicle Agency (DVA) will send you your eligibility number which you will need to book a theory test.
If you have concerns about your criminal history you are advised to speak to DVA before committing to any fees for packages offered by AMI training providers.
Information about the ANI check is on pages 13 and 14 of Your guide to becoming an Approved Motorcycle Instructor. There is also a list of training materials to help you prepare for each test.
You must pass all three tests, in order, within two years. If you fail any of the tests three times, you must wait two years from the date you first sat the theory test before beginning the process again.
Becoming an AMI when disabled
Yes. The the details of the restrictions on your licence must be sent with your application to make sure suitable arrangements are made to meet your needs.
Other requirements to be an AMI
As well as the three tests and a satisfactory ANI check, you must also:
- currently hold a full NI, Great Britain or Community (EC/EEC) motorcycle licence
- have held the licence for a total of four years out of the past six years
- have not been disqualified from motorcycle riding/driving in any part of the four years before the date of your application
Apply to become an AMI
You can apply online:
- AMI theory test (part one) - DVA official provider's website
- AMI test of riding ability and fitness (part two) - DVA official provider's website
- AMI test of instructional ability (part three) - DVA official provider's website
You can also send the fee with an application form to:
Business Support UnitDriver & Vehicle Agency
Balmoral Road
Malone Lower
Belfast
BT12 6QL
Telephone: 028 9068 5203
Forms are available from DVA's Business Support Unit or can be downloaded.
- AMI theory test (part one)
- AMI riding ability and fitness test (part two)
- AMI instructional ability test (part three)
- AMI registration or renewal application form
AMI test centre locations
The theory test (part one) is available at six test centres – Ballymena, Belfast, Londonderry, Newry, Omagh and Portadown.
The riding ability (part two) and the instructional ability test (part three) are conducted at Craigavon, Londonderry (Newbuildings) and Mallusk.
AMI test fees
AMI test fees are available at the following page:
Joining the register
After passing all three tests, you may apply to have your name added to the AMI Register, once you have paid the registration fee and had a satisfactory ANI check.
EU transfer
If you hold an AMI licence in an EU country, you can get this transferred to a NI licence if you are resident in NI.
You can apply online to transfer this.