Become a
Driving 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