A first and a second drive current for an electrical drive are generated as a function of a nominal value for a movement variable, such as drive torque or rotational speed. An alternating magnetic field is generated in the drive by the drive currents. The alternating magnetic field causes movement of the drive. A first measurement signal and a second measurement signal are determined by a measurement device. The two measurement signals represent the first drive current and the second drive current. A field-producing direct-axis current component and a torque-producing quadrature-axis current component are determined as a function of the first and second measurement signals. In addition, an actual value of the movement variable is determined as a function of the measurement signals. At least one of the drive currents is generated with a variable test current component which forms a test pattern for checking the measurement device.