Becoming a driving instructor in the UK is an attractive career choice for many. Not only does it offer flexibility and independence, but it also allows individuals to make a difference by teaching others a valuable life skill. The process of becoming a driving instructor can be challenging, but with the right qualifications, training, and experience, it is possible to achieve success in this rewarding profession.
Here, together with driving instructor Beverly Slater, we discuss the qualities and requirements it takes to be a driving instructor, exploring the necessary steps to become a driving instructor in the UK, including qualifications, training, legal requirements, and the skills that help you succeed.
Qualifications Required
To become a driving instructor in the UK, there are certain qualifications that must be met. These include:
- Age: Applicants must be at least 21 years old.
- Driving Licence: Candidates must have held a full UK or European Union (EU)/European Economic Area (EEA) unrestricted car driving licence for at least three years.
- Driving Record: Applicants should have a clean driving record, with no more than six penalty points on their licence.
- Criminal Record: A criminal record check is required to ensure the safety of learners. Any serious convictions may prevent an individual from qualifying as a driving instructor.
Training
To become an Approved Driving Instructor (ADI), candidates must undergo a rigorous training process. This typically involves three parts:
Part 1 – Theory Test: This test covers topics such as road safety, driving techniques, and instructional methods. It consists of 100 multiple-choice questions and a hazard perception test.
Part 2 – Driving Ability Test: This practical test assesses the candidate’s driving skills, including vehicle safety checks, general driving ability, and manoeuvres.
Part 3 – Instructional Ability Test: This final test evaluates the candidate’s ability to teach learner drivers. It includes a practical assessment where the candidate must provide a lesson to a learner driver while being observed by an examiner.
Experience
While there is no specific experience requirement to become a driving instructor, it is beneficial to have some background in teaching, coaching, or mentoring. This can help develop the necessary skills for effectively instructing learners. Additionally, having a solid understanding of road safety and driving techniques is crucial for success in this profession.
Do You Meet The Legal Requirements?
To legally work as a driving instructor in the UK, individuals must be registered with the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) as an Approved Driving Instructor (ADI). This registration is valid for four years, after which it must be renewed. It is essential to maintain a high standard of instruction and adhere to the ADI code of practice to remain on the register.
There are several other legal requirements set by the DVLA (Drivers and Vehicles Licensing Agency) that you need to be aware of if you’re to become a driving instructor. These are:
- You must have a full, unrestricted driving licence (UK or European Union) to start driving instructor training in the UK.
- You must have had this licence for at least four years out of the past six.
- You must not have been disqualified from driving
Since teaching someone a crucial skill such as driving is a big responsibility, you will have to undergo background checks to ensure you make a suitable candidate for a driving instructor role. If you meet these legal requirements then you can potentially go on to be a driving instructor, but it’s important to have the personal qualities too.
Skills That Help You Succeed
Certain skills can greatly contribute to success as a driving instructor. These include:
- Patience: Teaching learners with varying skill levels requires patience and understanding.
- Communication: The ability to clearly explain complex concepts is crucial for effective instruction.
- Adaptability: Each learner is unique, so being able to adapt teaching methods to suit individual needs is important.
- Empathy: Understanding the challenges and anxieties faced by learners can help create a supportive learning environment.
- Time management: Balancing lessons, scheduling, and business administration tasks requires strong time management skills.
The Bottom Line
Becoming a driving instructor in the UK involves meeting specific qualifications, undergoing rigorous training, and registering with the DVSA. With the right skills and dedication, it is possible to build a successful career in this rewarding profession. By fostering a supportive and patient learning environment, driving instructors can make a significant impact on the lives of their students, helping them gain confidence and independence on the road.
