Become a driving instructor

Become an Advanced Driving Instructor

Becoming a driving instructor can be a very rewarding career. You’ll help people to learn an important skill for life. The job involves working with all types of customers so you’ll need:

  • Great people skills

  • Patience and understanding

  • A thorough knowledge of the theory and the skill of driving

  • An ability to teach

  • Business sense

Customers often want to fit in their lessons around school and work so you may have to work unsociable hours to fit in with their needs. You’ll also need to check that you’re eligible to apply to become a driving instructor.

Three Stages to Becoming an ADI

  • Driving Theory Test

    1. Theory Test

    First you’ll need to apply to the DVSA to become an ADI. Here, you’ll provide your licence details for inspection and submit your Criminal Record Disclosure number. When you’ve been accepted to start the qualifying process, you can start your first of three ADI tests.

    The first part of the qualification process is a Driving Theory Test, similar to the theory test for learner drivers, although far more in depth and with a much higher pass mark requirement.

  • Driving Practical Test

    2. Practical Driving Test

    From the date you pass your Part 1 test, you will have two years in which to complete the next two parts of the qualification process. Part 2 is a driving ability test where you will be examined on all aspects of driving over the course of around an hour.

    You will be required to perform all manoeuvres and drive at a very high standard for the duration of the test. Once you complete this stage, you will move on to stage three, the Teaching Ability Test.

  • Driving Test

    3. Teaching Ability Test

    Your knowledge and ability to teach people to drive will be assessed by a senior examiner acting the role of a student learning to drive. A mandatory minimum of 40 hours of training must be dedicated to this part of the qualification.

    You will be tested using one of 10 Pre Set Tests (PSTs), each of which focus on specific parts of your skill set, and this PST will be selected at random on the day of your test.

Start Your Application Now
Become a driving instructor

How long does it take and how much does it cost?

In terms of how long it takes to qualify as an Advanced Driving Instructor, this really depends on your availability and on how much time you are able to dedicate to your training. It is possible to complete your training within 6–12 months.

In terms of the cost, be wary of some of the bigger companies that expect you to outlay thousands of pounds (before you even start!). At thedrivingskool.com we are a small independent business, who always put their customers first! We make sure our prices are clear, simple and honest.

We operate a pay as you go system for every stage of your training as we realise everyone has different needs and requirements. (Yes its that easy, no fine print or large deposits required!) Please call us or email for more information. There are also fees for each of the three tests

How Can We Help?

Training to become a Driving Instructor is a big commitment, but a hugely rewarding one! We offer one on one training, right from the beginning. We will guarantee you a position at our driving school once you have successfully completed your training course. This means that as soon as you gain your qualification, you will be able to start earning immediately. You will receive our full and ongoing support in your new career as a driving instructor, and we will help you every step of the way.

The next step is to call us on call on 0333 123 0245 or send us a message through our contact page. We can arrange a time that’s convenient to meet and discuss any questions you may have. This will also give you the chance to find out about our Company, the industry and meet some of our franchisees, many who have been through the training programme with us, and hear how they have built a successful business with thedrivingskool.com.

  • The Official DVSA Theory Test for Approved Driving Instructors DVD-ROM.

    The Official Highway Code.

    Know Your Traffic Signs.

    The Driving Instructor’s Handbook.

    The Official DVSA Guide to Driving – The Essential Skills.

    The Official DVSA Guide to Hazard Perception DVD.

  • Prepare for your Practical Test DVD.

    The Official DVSA Guide to Learning to Drive.

    Practical Teaching Skills for Driving Instructors.

    Roadcraft: The Police Driver’s Handbook.