Becoming a UK Driving Instructor

As demand for Driving Instructors reach never before seen levels, with only 29.8% of Approved Driving Instructors (ADI) currently able to take on new pupils, is becoming an ADI on your next horizon?
Well, with a job satisfaction rate that eclipses many other industries, with 90.8% of ADIs agreeing the role gives them a sense of personal accomplishment, our blog looks at how you can become a driving instructor in 2024.
If your dream is to be self-employed, or have ambitions of being your own boss and owning your own business, as a driving instructor you can do both. Becoming a driving instructor means that you can take charge of your career.
To become a driving instructor in the UK, there’s a few key steps and eligibility criteria you’ll need to meet, as well as tests and the necessary training. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how you can become a UK driving instructor:

Step 1: Are you eligible?
Before you apply, you’ll need to meet these three aspects:
Age: Are you at least 21 years old?
Driving licence: Have you had a full UK or EU driving licence for at least three years and no more than six penalty points?
Criminal record: As you’ll need to pass a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check, if you have a criminal record then you will not qualify.

Step 2: How do I apply for ADI registration?
If you can meet the three aspects above, you can apply to the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) to join the ADI register and provide your personal details, driving licence details and pay the application fee.

Step 3: What ADI qualifying tests do I need to take?
There are three tests you need to pass to qualify as an ADI:

1. ADI Part 1: Theory
• A computer-based test of multiple-choice questions and a hazard perception test.
• A test on topics covering road procedures, traffic signs, and driving laws.
• You need a score of at least 85% on the multiple-choice questions and at least 57 out of 75 on the hazard perception test.

2. ADI Part 2: Driving ability
• A practical driving test to assess your driving skills.
• A similar test to the standard driving test, but more challenging, including manoeuvres, independent driving and dealing with a variety of road and traffic conditions.
• You need to demonstrate a high level of driving competence and safety.

3. ADI Part 3: Instructional ability
• A practical test to assess your ability to teach pupils by a DVSA examiner observing you while you give a driving lesson to a pupil.
• You’ll be evaluated on your instructional techniques, ability to communicate clearly and how effective you are at teaching safe driving practices.

Step 4: Is there ADI training available?
To prepare for the tests, you may want to consider ADI training. There’s a range of training providers who offer courses that can help you to develop the skills and knowledge you need across both theoretical and practical aspects.

Step 5: Where do I register as an ADI?
Once you’ve passed all three ADI tests, you can apply to join the ADI register, where you can pay the registration fee and submit your application to the DVSA.

Step 6: How to I maintain my ADI status?
As a qualified ADI, you must:
• Renew your registration: ADI registration lasts for four years, then you must renew it.
• Undertake continued professional development (CPD): Although not mandatory, it’s recommended that you keep your skills and knowledge up to date.
• Pass standards checks: Every four years, you’ll need to pass a standards check to make sure you’re maintaining high instructional standards. An examiner will observe one of your lessons to assess your instructional ability.

What are the costs involved?
Fees are set by the DVSA and details can be found here.
• Application fee: For ADI registration.
• Test fees: Each part of the ADI tests has a separate fee.
• Training costs: Varies depending on the training provider and level of training needed.
• DBS check: For the criminal record check.

To sum up, becoming a driving instructor in the UK is, as you’d expect, a rigorous process. Clearly, so that only qualified individuals can teach driving. You’ll need to be dedicated, fully prepared and a have a commitment for continuous learning and professional development. With a passion for driving and teaching, you can start your journey to a new rewarding career.
At Vehicle Concepts, we specialise in supporting the driving school sector by providing short-term dual control auto, manual and hybrid vehicle hire. This helps you to continue working with minimal disruption. Find out how our team supports ADIs here: www.vehicle-concepts.co.uk/driving-instructor-services

Sources:
https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/working-as-a-driving-instructor-survey-2023-results/working-as-a-driving-instructor-survey-2023-results
https://www.gov.uk/become-car-driving-instructor