DRTS Instructor Theory exam-day guide
DRTS Instructor Theory · Prepare for the day ahead.
Your checklist
Government-issued photo ID
Bring the original, unexpired ID required for admission. The exact accepted forms and name-matching rules vary by provider, so confirm with the provider which documents qualify and make sure the name matches your registration exactly.
Confirmation and scheduling documents
Carry your appointment confirmation, candidate number, and any admission ticket the provider issues, in printed or digital form as instructed. Confirm with the provider whether printed copies are mandatory.
Approved reference materials
Some instructor-level practical assessments permit specific reference documents or score sheets. Confirm with the provider the exact permitted list and format before packing anything; unapproved materials may be confiscated.
Note-taking materials
Bring only the paper, pencil, or pen the provider allows. Many testing rooms supply these and prohibit personal stationery, so confirm with the provider what you may bring into the assessment area.
Personal medication and comfort items
Bring necessary medication and any permitted comfort items such as water or tissues. Confirm with the provider whether these must be declared, inspected, or left outside the room.
Route, parking, and arrival plan
Plan the route and arrival time in advance, allowing margin for traffic and check-in. Confirm with the provider the recommended arrival time and the procedure if you are delayed.
Dress and equipment for practical tasks
If the assessment includes demonstration or teaching tasks, wear clothing that lets you move safely and bring any equipment the provider specifies. Confirm with the provider the required attire and equipment list, including footwear and safety gear.
Review of assessment format and criteria
Re-read the published format, task list, and scoring criteria so you know what is observed and how performance is judged. If any element is unclear, confirm with the provider rather than guessing.
Rest and nutrition plan
Protect sleep in the final days and plan a normal meal before the assessment. Avoid new caffeine or supplement routines on exam day.
Backup contact and transport
Save the provider's contact number and arrange a backup way to reach the site in case of transport failure. Confirm with the provider whom to call if you cannot arrive on time.
Charged devices set as required
If digital check-in or an electronic score sheet is used, ensure devices are charged and configured as instructed. Confirm with the provider the policy on phones and smart devices in the assessment area.
Prepared self-introduction and task plan
Have a brief, professional self-introduction ready and a mental sequence for each practical task. Rehearse aloud once or twice so the delivery is calm and clear.
Plan the day
Confirm the appointment time, location, and any changes with the provider. Re-read the format and scoring criteria, list every required document and item, and resolve any open questions with the provider while there is still time to act.
Run one full rehearsal of the practical tasks under realistic time pressure, ideally with a peer observing and giving feedback. Note weak points and schedule one focused practice session rather than cramming every topic.
Prepare clothing, equipment, and documents, and place them together in one bag. Check transport arrangements, parking options, and the route, including a backup plan.
Do a light review of key procedures and criteria only, not new material. Confirm the alarm, charge devices, prepare food and water for the morning, and aim for a full night's sleep.
Avoid intensive last-minute practice that could cause fatigue or injury. If you must rehearse, keep it brief and low-intensity, and stop early enough to wind down.
Eat a normal meal, dress as required, and leave with margin for unexpected delays. Recheck that ID, confirmation documents, and permitted equipment are in the bag before departing.
Arrive at the recommended time, complete check-in and identity verification calmly, and use waiting time for quiet mental rehearsal rather than last-minute study. Follow staff instructions on where to wait and what may be brought in.
Listen carefully to instructions, ask clarifying questions only where permitted, and work through each task in a planned sequence. Manage time deliberately, narrate or demonstrate clearly where the criteria require it, and stay within safety rules at all times.
If you make an error, acknowledge it, correct it safely, and continue; do not dwell on it. Keep track of remaining time and reserve a moment at the end to confirm you have completed every required element.
Follow the provider's instructions on returning materials, signing out, and receiving results. Note any feedback offered and record what you would do differently while it is fresh.
Rules to check
Bring the original, unexpired photo ID specified by the provider, with a name matching your registration. If your documents differ in any way, confirm with the provider before the assessment date.
Arrive at or before the recommended check-in time. Late-arrival and rescheduling policies vary, so confirm with the provider what happens if you are delayed and whether any fee applies.
Follow all instructions from assessors and site staff, including safety directions. Unsafe conduct or disregard for safety instructions may end the assessment regardless of technical performance.
Use only permitted materials and equipment. Leave phones, smart devices, and personal notes outside the assessment area unless the provider explicitly allows them.
Breaks are usually at the assessor's discretion during a practical assessment. Confirm with the provider in advance whether scheduled breaks exist and how to request one, for example for medical needs.
If you need an accommodation for a disability or medical condition, request it well before the date and confirm with the provider what documentation and notice period are required.
Scoring is based on the published criteria for each observed task. Ask the provider for the criteria in advance and do not assume that any single task outweighs the others.
Treat assessors, staff, and other candidates professionally. Disruptive, dishonest, or aggressive behavior may lead to removal, and the provider's misconduct policy governs any appeal.