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How to become an Approved Motorcycle Instructor (AMI)

To become an AMI, you must carry out three qualifying tests. Part one tests your theory knowledge, part two tests your riding ability and fitness, and part three tests your ability to instruct learner motorcycle drivers.

AMI qualifying tests have resumed. Check tests for fully qualified AMIs have also resumed.

If you need to contact the Business Support Unit (BSU), email DVA.AMI@infrastructure-ni.gov.uk. 

Becoming an AMI

When you first apply, an enhanced security check will be carried out by Access NI (ANI). Once carried out, Driver & Vehicle Agency (DVA) will send you your eligibility number which you will need to book a theory test.

  • Apply for an AccessNI check

If you have concerns about your criminal history you should 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 if you're disabled

Yes, this is possible. You must send details of the restrictions on your licence with your application to make sure suitable arrangements are made to meet your needs.

Other rules to be an AMI

As well as the three tests and a satisfactory ANI check, you must also:

  • hold a valid, 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 will need to make payment for an AMI theory test (part one) online.

You can then book your AMI theory test online (part one).

You can change or cancel your AMI theory test (part one) within three clear working days’ notice of your appointment online.

You can also send an application form to DVA’s Business Support Unit (BSU). Visit the link below for the address and telephone number.

  • Driver & Vehicle Agency - Business Support Unit

Forms are available from DVA's BSU 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 

If you need to contact BSU about your application or booking, email ADIAMIApplications@infrastructure-ni.gov.uk and someone will get back to you as soon as possible.

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.

  • Test centre locations

AMI test fees

Approved Motorcycle Instructor test fees  are available at the following page: 

  • Driving test fees

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 ADI licence in an EU country, you can get this transferred to a NI licence if you are resident in NI.

You need to fill in the application form at the link below and send it to ADIAMIApplications@infrastructure-ni.gov.uk.

  • EU instructor licence transfer application form

You then need to make a payment for registration on the NI register. You can pay online at the link below by selecting ADI registration (£240.00) and make the payment as instructed.

  • EU transfer online payment

More useful links

  • Riding motorcycles and mopeds
  • Approved Driving Instructor and Approved Motorcycle Instructor update 2019
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Driving instructors

  • Approved Motorcycle Instructor (AMI) register
  • Book your ADI or AMI theory test online
  • Change or cancel your ADI or AMI theory test online
  • How to become an Approved Driving Instructor (ADI)
  • How to become an Approved Motorcycle Instructor (AMI)

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