ADI Part 1 Confusing Road Signs 2025
ADI Part 1 Theory Test: Confusing Road Signs Made Simple
Passing the ADI Part 1 theory test is your first step to becoming a fully qualified Approved Driving Instructor – and for many, one of the most confusing parts of the whole process is mastering road signs. They seem simple at first… until you realise how many of them look alike or contradict your instincts!
In this guide, we’ll break down the most confusing UK road signs you’re likely to see in your Part 1 test, explain why they trip people up, and give you memory tricks to make them stick for good.
Why Road Signs Trip People Up in the ADI Theory Test
The DVSA expects instructor candidates to demonstrate a far deeper understanding of signs than your average learner. You’re not just recognising them – you’re explaining them, anticipating how others might misinterpret them, and applying them in real-world training.
Some signs are rarely seen in everyday driving but are still part of the test syllabus. Others appear in similar shapes or colours but have very different meanings.
7 Most Confusing ADI Part 1 Roadsigns
Let’s look at the signs that most ADI candidates find puzzling:
1. No Vehicles Except Bicycles Being Pushed
![Example Sign: No Vehicles Except Bicycles Being Pushed]
Why it’s confusing:
This circular sign with a red border shows a car and a motorbike. Many assume it means “no motor vehicles” – but in fact, it means no vehicles at all, unless you’re physically pushing a bicycle.
Remember it like this:
If it has a red circle and shows vehicles – it’s a prohibition. The only allowance is bicycles being pushed, not ridden.
2. Priority Over Oncoming Vehicles vs Give Way to Oncoming Vehicles
2. Priority Over Oncoming Vehicles vs Give Way to Oncoming Vehicles
![Example Signs: Priority Signs]
The white arrow with a red one means you have priority.
The red arrow with a white one means give way to oncoming traffic.
Common mistake: Learners reverse these meanings under pressure.
Tip: Red = danger = give way. Always give way to the red arrow.
3. National Speed Limit Applies
3. National Speed Limit Applies
![Example Sign: Black Diagonal Stripe]
What it means: The default speed limit for that type of road applies:
60mph on single carriageways
70mph on dual carriageways and motorways
Why it’s tricky: People think it means “no limit” or forget what the national limits are.
Tip: Think "stripe = standard rules apply".
4. No Entry vs No Motor Vehicles
4. No Entry vs No Motor Vehicles
![Example Signs: No Entry and No Motor Vehicles]
No Entry: Red circle with white horizontal bar – applies to all traffic.
No Motor Vehicles: Car and motorbike sign – only motor vehicles are banned.
Watch out: These look similar in layout but have very different meanings and legal implications.
5. Minimum Speed Limit Signs
5. Minimum Speed Limit Signs
![Example Sign: 30 Minimum]
Shape and colour: Blue circular signs are mandatory instructions.
Why it confuses people: Most drivers associate circles with limits – but forget that blue = must do, not warning.
Tip: Blue signs are like orders. If it says “30”, you must drive at least that speed where safe.
6. School Crossing Patrol
6. School Crossing Patrol
![Example Sign: School Patrol Stop Sign]
Looks like a stop sign, but isn’t. It’s used by school crossing patrols (lollipop people).
Why it’s tricky: It has the same octagonal shape and red colour as a standard stop sign – but it’s a hand-held sign used temporarily.
DVSA angle: You need to know who enforces it (the patrol person), and what to do when you see it.
7. Low Bridge Warning – Imperial vs Metric
7. Low Bridge Warning – Imperial vs Metric
![Example Signs: Height Restrictions]
You may see:
14’6” (imperial)
4.4m (metric)
Or a combination of both
Why it’s confusing: Learners get caught out by switching between measurements or misreading the shape.
Tip: Triangular sign = warning. Rectangular plate underneath often clarifies with more info. Always look twice.
How to Remember Tricky Road Signs (Memory Tricks)
How to Remember Tricky Road Signs (Memory Tricks)
Here are a few old-school methods that never go out of style:
🔴 Red circle = prohibition – you're not allowed to do something.
🔵 Blue circle = mandatory – you must do what the sign tells you.
🔺 Triangle = warning – something to watch out for.
🟦 Blue rectangle = information – usually guidance signs.
Flashcard it. Say it out loud. Stick it to the fridge.
Repetition builds recognition.
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More Help with Your ADI Part 1 Preparation
You're not alone on this journey. Explore our other free guides:
👉 [How to Revise for ADI Part 1 Effectively]
👉 [Hazard Perception Tips for Driving Instructors]
👉 [Test-Style Road Signs Quiz]