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Become a
Driving Instructor
Are you interested in becoming a driving instructor? Whether you’re looking for a new challenge, a change of pace, or the freedom to be your own boss, this career could be perfect for you. Learn how to start your journey towards becoming a driving instructor with our driving instructor training course today!
Set your own working hours
Great earning potential
Become your own boss
Is being a Driving Instructor a Good Job?
Set Your Own Hours
As your own boss, you can choose a work schedule that suits you.
Great Earning Potential
The average driving lesson earns over £35 an hour, with high demand for instructors.
A Job You’ll Love
Meet new people daily and enjoy the satisfaction of helping them acquire a vital life skill.
Constant Variety
Every day brings new pupils and experiences, making the job dynamic and engaging.
DRIVING INSTRUCTOR INSTRUCTOR
How to Become a Driving Instructor
Starting a career as a driving instructor can feel overwhelming at first. There’s a lot of jargon and abbreviations to get through, which can make the process seem confusing for prospective student instructors. But don’t worry, we’re here to help simplify the journey with our step-by-step guide.
If you’ve ever thought about becoming a driving instructor, we highly recommend it! It’s a fantastic career for those who enjoy independence and thrive on challenges. Plus, you’ll be teaching an important life skill, and helping learners pass their test is incredibly rewarding.
Here, we’ll cover everything you need to know to become and ADI.
Apply to Become a Driving Instructor
Before you can start training to become a driving instructor, you’ll need to register with the Driving and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA). To be eligible, you must:
- Be over 21
- Have held a valid driving licence for more than three years
- Have no motoring conviction
- You will need a fresh Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check, even if you already have one
You can check your eligibility to become a driving instructor on the DVSA website.
Get a Driving Instructor Trainer
Although formal training isn’t a requirement to pass the ADI tests and become a driving instructor, many people find it challenging without expert guidance. Most prospective instructors choose to undergo bespoke driving instructor training to increase their chances of success.
Our industry-leading driving instructor training programme carried out by our instructor trainer partners offers a fast, cost-effective path to help you become a licenced ADI. The course not only prepares you for the test but also covers practical aspects like managing your diary and retaining students. Other training options are also available if you prefer.
Take the theory test (ADI part 1)
How much does it cost?
The ADI part 1 test costs £81.
What to take to your test
Make sure to bring your UK photocard driving licence. If you have a Northern Ireland licence, bring both the photocard and the paper counterpart.
The test
The theory test is split into two parts:
Multiple-choice questions: You’ll answer 100 questions across five categories, and you’ll need to score at least 80% in each category. The subjects covered include:
- The Highway Code
- Traffic signs
- Driving – the essential skills
- Official theory test for approved driving instructors pack
- The Driving Instructor’s Handbook
Hazard perception test: You’ll watch 14 video clips of everyday road situations featuring developing hazards. By clicking the mouse when you spot the hazards, you can earn up to 5 points per hazard. You need to score at least 76% to pass this part of the test.
Take the driving ability test (ADI part 2)
How much does it cost?
The ADI part 2 test costs £111.
The car
Your car must meet the DVSA’s standards. If it doesn’t, the test will be cancelled, and you’ll have to pay the fee again.
What happens during the test?
The driving ability test takes around an hour and is split into five parts:
- Eyesight check
- ‘Show me, tell me’ vehicle safety questions
- General driving ability
- Manoeuvres
- Independent driving
The result
To pass the ADI part 2 test, you must accumulate no more than six driving faults and have no serious or dangerous faults. If you fail, you can take the test again, but after three attempts, you’ll need to wait two years from the date you passed the ADI part 1 test before trying again.
The Cardington Special Test
If you’re already an approved driving instructor or a fully qualified motorcycle instructor, you can opt to take the voluntary Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) special test. This tests your driving skills at the highest standard.
Choose your pathway
Once you’ve completed your driving instructor course, you’ll have two options:
Become a fully qualified driving instructor by passing all the DVSA qualification tests, which include:
- Part 1: Theory and hazard perception
- Part 2: Driving ability
- Part 3: Instructional ability
Become a trainee driving instructor to gain further teaching experience. You’ll deliver real lessons under the DVSA Trainee Instructor Licence Scheme, building up your skills before taking the Part 3 test.
We hope this guide has been helpful! If you think you’ve got what it takes to become a driving instructor, apply to become a driving instructor today. We’d love to help you on your journey to a rewarding new career.
Frequently asked questions
Who can become a driving instructor?
To become a driving instructor, you need to be professional, organised, and good with people. You must also meet certain criteria: be over 21, hold a clean licence for more than three years, and complete a new Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check, even if you’ve had one before. You can check your eligibility with the DVSA or DVA (Northern Ireland).
Why should I become a driving instructor?
Becoming a driving instructor lets you be your own boss, offering flexibility and control over your schedule to improve work/life balance. It’s also a rewarding career where you can make a good income without long hours. Plus, you’ll meet new people and make a real difference by teaching a valuable life skill.
Has the pandemic adversely affected the industry?
Although the pandemic disrupted driving lessons, demand has surged due to a lesson backlog and reduced use of public transport. This has increased the need for driving instructors.
How much do driving instructors earn?
Driving instructors’ earnings vary based on lesson rates and hours worked. If you charge the national average of £28 per hour, your annual income could be around £47,040 before expenses. Some instructors charge up to £35-£50 per hour, which can further increase earnings.
Is being a driving instructor a good career?
Becoming a driving instructor offers great freedom, allowing you to set your own hours, manage your schedule, and take time off when needed. You’ll also meet new people regularly and help them gain essential driving skills. While it’s a rewarding career, it also comes with important responsibilities that require your focus and attention.
Are driving instructors self-employed?
Yes, most driving instructors are self-employed. While some may hold permanent positions with a salary, these cases are rare.
What does “PDI” and “ADI” mean?
PDI stands for potential driving instructor, though it’s now more commonly referred to as a trainee or part-qualified instructor. ADI stands for approved driving instructor, the official title you earn after passing the three ADI exams and registering as an instructor.
A PDI will have a pink badge while and ADI will have a green badge.
What are the ADI Parts 1, 2 & 3?
The ADI exams consist of three parts:
- Part 1: A multiple-choice theory and hazard perception test, requiring in-depth knowledge of The Highway Code.
- Part 2: A driving ability test, similar to a practical driving test but with higher standards.
- Part 3: A test of instructional ability where you give a supervised lesson to a pupil. Passing all three allows you to register as an ADI and become a professional instructor.
How long does it take to become a driving instructor?
Becoming a driving instructor typically takes between 6 to 12 months, depending on your training schedule. You can start earning as a trainee instructor while preparing for your Part 3 exam, which helps ease the financial burden and provides valuable experience.
Can I work while I am training as a driving instructor?
Yes, many trainees continue working full or part-time while training. You can set your own learning schedule around your commitments, except for in-person sessions that are agreed with your instructor trainer.
