FAQs
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.
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.
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.
How do I become a driving instructor?
Find the best training course for you. Not all training courses are the same so do your research and choose the best fit.Once you have booked your course you should be guided through the process by your training provider but if not, here is the process.
– Apply for your DBS Check
– Once you have received your DBS your can apply to the DVSA register, you must do both of these before you are able to book any test.
– Take an ADI Part 1 Theory Test
– Take an ADI Part 2 Driving Test
– Take up a six months trainee licence (Optional)
– Take an ADI Part 3 Teaching 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.
How much is a trainee licence?
A driving instructor trainee licence costs £140.
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.
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.
