Can You Become a Driving Instructor With an Automatic Licence?

07/08/2024

Are you considering becoming a driving instructor, but only have an automatic licence? Many people wonder if it is possible to become a driving instructor with an automatic licence, especially since most driving schools teach manual driving. In this blog post, we will discuss the difference between automatic and manual licences, whether you can become a driving instructor with an automatic licence, other requirements you must meet, and the process to become a driving instructor.

Automatic vs. Manual Licence

In the UK, driving licences fall into two categories: manual and automatic. The main difference between an automatic and manual licence is the type of vehicle you are allowed to drive. With an automatic licence, you are only permitted to drive automatic vehicles, which means you cannot drive manual cars with a clutch pedal and a gear shifter that requires manual gear changes. On the other hand, with a manual licence, you can drive both automatic and manual cars.

Can You Become a Driving Instructor With an Automatic Licence?

Yes, you can become a driving instructor with an automatic licence. While most driving schools prefer instructors with manual licences, there is a growing demand for automatic driving instructors due to the increasing popularity of automatic cars. As long as you meet the necessary requirements and possess the relevant qualifications, having an automatic licence should not hinder you from pursuing a career as a driving instructor.

While an automatic licence allows entry into the ADI pathway, holding a full manual licence offers certain advantages:

Expanded Client Base: A manual license enables you to cater to a broader range of potential learners, including those seeking manual driving lessons.
Enhanced Teaching Skills: A thorough understanding of both manual and automatic transmissions means a deeper grasp of vehicle operation, which can translate into improved teaching.

Other Requirements

In addition to having a valid driving licence, there are some other requirements you must meet to become a driving instructor:

Age and Driving Experience: In order to become a driving instructor in the UK, you must be at least 21 years old and have held a full driving license for at least 3 years.
Criminal Record Check: Before becoming an approved driving instructor (ADI), you must undergo a criminal record check. This is to ensure that you are a suitable person to work with vulnerable individuals, such as learner drivers.
Medical Fitness: A medical declaration is required to confirm you meet the necessary health standards for instructing others on the road.
Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) Requirements: The DVSA is the government agency responsible for ensuring that driving instructors meet the necessary standards. They set out the requirements for becoming an ADI, including passing a series of tests to demonstrate your driving ability, knowledge of the Highway Code, and teaching skills.
The Approved Driving Instructor (ADI) Qualification: To become an ADI, you must pass three parts of the ADI qualifying tests. This includes a theory test, a practical driving test, and a test of your ability to instruct. Once you have passed all three parts, you can apply to join the ADI register and start teaching learner drivers.

The Process