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DRIVING INSTRUCTOR TRAINING FAQS

See our FAQs below

Can I become a driving instructor?

To become an Approved Driving Instructor, you need to be able to answer YES to all the following:

  • Have you held a full UK or EU licence for 3.5 out of the past 6 years?
  • Can you read a normal size number plate from a distance of 27.5 metres (90 feet) with glasses if required?
  • Do you have less than six points on your licence?
  • You have no convictions in the past ten years that would prevent you from being on the Driving Instructors Register? For example: robbery, assault.
  • You enjoy working with people.

If you can fulfil all these minimum requirements, then there should be nothing to stop you becoming a fully qualified Driving Instructor.

How do I start to become a driving instructor?

You will have to take a DBS Disclosure (The old CRB check) after which you can apply to join the Approved Driving Instructor (ADI) register as a Proposed Driving Instructor (PDI). You can do this by visiting https://www.gov.uk/become-a-driving-instructor

What tests do I have to take to become a driving instructor?
  • Theory Test Part 1 (100 Questions and a 14 Clip Hazard Perception Test)
  • Advanced Driving Test Part 2 (Advanced One Hour Driving Test)
  • Test of Teaching Ability Part 3 (An Observed Driving Lesson)
Can I book my part 1 theory test before taking a DBS Disclosure and joining the ADI register?

No. You must already have registered with the DVSA before booking an ADI part 1 theory test.

How long does it take to train to become a driving instructor?

Anywhere from 3 to 12 months depending on your work and family commitments. Most people train and qualify in around 9 to 12 months.

How much does a driving instructor earn?

A full time driving instructor delivering 35 hours of driving lessons a week with four weeks off a year should earn around £32,000 per annum after business costs.

How much does it cost to become a driving instructor?

Training courses can vary in cost from around £1000 up to £4000. The cheapest courses normally involve you signing a 12-month franchise contract which can cost you more in the long run.

What is the quickest way of becoming a driving instructor?

The quickest way of getting on the road as a driving instructor is to take your training as an intensive course. Passing your part 1 and part 2 tests as soon as possible and then taking your 40 hours of part 3 training. You can then start giving paid instruction on a trainee licence which is issued by the DVSA. You must apply for the licence.

What is a trainee licence?

A trainee licence is a 6-month licence that you can apply for once you have passed your part 2 driving test and have completed 40 hours of part 3 training. This allows you to charge for giving tuition to gain experience before taking your part 3 test of instructional ability.

How much is a trainee licence?

A driving instructor trainee licence costs £140.

Can I go on a trainee licence if I want to set up as a driving instructor on my own?

No. You must be sponsored by a driving school. There must be at least as many fully qualified driving instructors in that school as they have trainee licence holders. (PDIs)

Do I have to have further training when on a trainee licence?

Yes. You are required to have a further 20 hours of part 3 training within the first 3 months of your trainee licence or have a fully qualified ADI sit in on 20% of the lessons you give. Due to the cost of the ADI sitting in option, almost all trainees opt for the 20 hours extra training.

Do you have to go on a trainee licence to become a driving instructor?

No. You can train and then take a pupil to your part 3 test. You must not charge your pupil for the lesson or any lesson you give them until you have qualified.

Can I charge petrol money to someone I am giving driving lessons to if I'm not on a trainee licence or not a qualified driving instructor yet?

No. You must not charge any money whatsoever if you don’t hold a trainee or full licence to instruct.

Are driving instructor's employees of the driving school they work for?

There may be a very small number of driving instructors in the UK that are employees, but the clear majority are self-employed whether they are working on their own or working with a franchise.

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