Who Can Give Driving Lessons?

08/05/2024

Learning to drive is a rite of passage for many in the UK, offering freedom and independence to enjoy the open road. However, the process of learning how to drive is governed by strict rules, particularly around who can legally give driving lessons. This is important because the rules of the road must be followed carefully, and it’s the role of professional instructors to instil the right driving skills in learners. This article outlines the rules and requirements for individuals providing driving lessons in the UK, whether they are professional driving instructors or private individuals.

Professional Driving Instructors

For most people learning to drive, utilising the skills and expertise of a professional driving instructor is essential. These professionals have all of the knowledge required to help you pass your driving test and learn the rules of the road in a safe space.

Approved Driving Instructors (ADIs)

The most reliable way to receive driving lessons is through an Approved Driving Instructor (ADI). ADIs are professionals who have passed a series of examinations administered by the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA). Here's what makes ADIs unique:

• Qualifications: To qualify, an ADI must pass a three-part examination which includes a theory test, a driving ability test, and a test of instructional ability.
• Registration and Badges: Once qualified, ADIs must register with the DVSA and are given a green badge to display in their teaching vehicle, signifying their certification.
• Standards Checks: ADIs undergo regular checks by the DVSA to ensure they maintain high teaching standards.

Potential Driving Instructors (PDIs)

Those who are training to become ADIs are known as Potential Driving Instructors (PDIs). PDIs can also give lessons but are still in the process of completing their qualifications:
• Pink Badge: PDIs are issued a pink badge which they must display while teaching. This indicates that they are not fully qualified and are teaching under a trainee licence.
• Limitations: A trainee licence is valid for six months, and PDIs must be sponsored by a driving school and receive additional training during this period.

Private Individuals Giving Lessons

Not all driving lessons need to be conducted by professional instructors. Learners can also be taught by friends or family members, provided certain conditions are met. Incorporating private lessons alongside ones provided by an ADI or PDI can be helpful as it gives learners more time on the roads. However, the private individual accompanying the learner must meet the following legal requirements:
• Licence: The person providing instruction must have held a full driving licence for at least three years.
• Vehicle Suitability: The car used must be roadworthy, have dual controls (recommended but not required), and display L-plates on the front and back.
• Insurance: The vehicle must be insured for the purpose of driving instruction, which may require a specific insurance policy that covers a learner driver being in control of the car.
While there are no legal requirements for private individuals to follow a specific curriculum, it is strongly advised that they familiarise themselves with the DVSA’s guidelines on teaching someone to drive. It ensures the learner receives comprehensive instruction similar to what they would receive from a professional.

The Benefits and Drawbacks of Learning Outside of Lessons

While structured lessons with an ADI or PDI are essential, many learners supplement these sessions with additional driving practice outside of formal lessons. This extra practice often involves a learner driver taking to the roads accompanied by a friend or family member who meets the legal requirements for supervising a learner. This approach has both advantages and disadvantages.

Benefits

• Increased Confidence: Additional practice can build the learner's confidence, making them more comfortable behind the wheel. This can reduce anxiety during official lessons and the driving test.
• More Experience: Driving in a variety of conditions, such as different times of day, weather conditions, and types of roads, provides invaluable experience that formal lessons alone may not cover extensively.
• Flexibility: Learners can practice driving at their convenience, providing an opportunity to reinforce skills learned during professional lessons at a pace that suits them.
• Cost-Effective: Given the costs associated with professional driving lessons, practicing with a qualified friend or family member can provide additional driving experience without the associated cost of extra professional lessons.

Drawbacks

• Developing Bad Habits: One risk of learning from friends or family is the potential transfer of their bad driving habits to the learner. Professional instructors are trained to provide instruction based on best practices and the latest road safety guidelines.
• Stress and Tension: Learning from someone you know can sometimes create a stressful environment, particularly if the supervising driver is inexperienced in teaching driving skills. This can affect the learning process and may lead to conflicts.
• Insurance Risks: Not all car insurance policies automatically cover learner drivers. It’s crucial to ensure that the vehicle used for practice is properly insured to include learner drivers, avoiding potential legal issues in the event of an accident.
• Lack of Professional Feedback: While friends or family can provide helpful feedback, they may not be able to offer the detailed, professional guidance and correction that an ADI can. This could lead to gaps in learning or misunderstanding of driving rules and techniques.

Considerations for Choosing an Instructor

When deciding between a professional ADI and a private instructor, consider the following:
• Experience and Knowledge: ADIs are trained to understand not just how to drive, but also how to teach driving effectively.
• Insurance and Safety: Professional instructors typically have dual-controlled cars, which can make learning safer and more comfortable.
• Cost: While learning from a friend or family member can be more cost-effective, professional instructors include the cost of a car specifically equipped for teaching in their fees.

Learning to Drive is Easy With the Right Instructor

Choosing the right instructor is crucial for becoming a skilled, safe driver. Whether opting for a professional ADI, a PDI under a trainee licence, or a private individual, it’s important to ensure that all legal requirements are met. Remember, the goal of any driving instruction is not just to pass the driving test but to lay the foundation for a lifetime of safe driving.

If you’re looking for resources to become an approved instructor, such as books and media, or have any questions about the equipment required, please contact our team at Grade Six Supplies today.