An extensive guide to becoming a driving instructor

Here is a guide to becoming a driving instructor

1. Meet the basic requirements:

   • Be at least 21 years old: You must be at least 21 years old to apply for initial qualification as a driving instructor.
   • Hold a full UK or EU driving license for at least 3 years: You must have held a full UK or EU driving license for at least 3 years to apply for initial qualification as a driving instructor.
   • Have no more than 6 points on your license: You must have no more than 6 points on your license to apply for initial qualification as a driving instructor.
   • Have no criminal convictions that would prevent you from working with vulnerable people: You must have no criminal convictions that would prevent you from working with vulnerable people, such as convictions for violence or sexual offenses.
   • Be able to communicate effectively in English: You must be able to communicate effectively in English, both orally and in writing, as you will be required to instruct and communicate with learners in English.

2. Pass the initial qualification test:

   • The initial qualification test is a multiple-choice exam that covers topics such as road rules, teaching techniques, and customer service.
   • The exam consists of 100 questions, and you must score at least 85% to pass.
   • The exam can be taken at any approved test centre, and it takes about 3 hours to complete.
   • The exam fee is currently £81.

3. Complete the approved driving instructor (ADI) training:

   • ADI training consists of both classroom and practical components, and it covers topics such as lesson planning, teaching techniques, and risk assessment.
   • You will be required to complete a minimum of 35 hours of approved classroom training and a minimum of 5 hours of practical training, including a minimum of 3 hours of observation from an approved trainer.
   • You will also be required to complete a minimum of 40 hours of supervised driving instruction, with at least 10 hours of observation from an approved trainer.
   • ADI training is provided by approved training providers, and the cost of training varies depending on the provider and the delivery method (e.g. in-person or online).

4. Pass the ADI standards check:

   • The ADI standards check is a practical assessment of your teaching skills and your ability to provide safe and effective driving instruction.
   • You will be assessed on your ability to plan and deliver lessons, your communication skills, and your ability to manage learning and risk.
   • The assessment consists of a practical driving test and a teaching ability test.
   • The practical driving test is similar to the driving test that learner drivers take, and you will be assessed on your driving ability and your ability to safely instruct the learner.
   • The teaching ability test consists of lesson observation and a question-and-answer session. You will be assessed on your ability to plan and deliver a lesson and on your knowledge of teaching techniques and the learning process.
   • You must pass both the practical driving test and the teaching ability test to pass the ADI standards check.
   • The ADI standards check can be taken at any approved test centre, and the fee is currently £111.

5. Register with the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) 

   • The annual fee for registration as a driving instructor is currently £300.
   • As a registered driving instructor, you will be required to complete a minimum of 35 hours of approved professional development every 3 years.
   • Approved professional development includes activities such as workshops, seminars, and online courses that are designed to help you stay up-to-date with best practices in driving instruction and to improve your teaching skills.
   • You will also be required to renew your registration every 4 years, which involves completing an application form and paying the annual fee.

6. Get started as a driving instructor:

   • Once you are registered as a driving instructor, you can start offering driving lessons to learners.
   • There are several options for how you can offer driving lessons, including working for an established driving school or starting your own business as a self-employed instructor.
   • You may also want to consider obtaining additional qualifications or certifications, such as a pass plus qualification, which can help you to specialize in certain areas of driving instruction or to stand out in the marketplace.

If you are looking to become a driving instructor and want to fill your diary with keen learners wanting to take their driving lessons, join us at Rated Driving and we will work with you to ensure you have all the tools you need including a full diary. There is no cost to joining us.

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