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How to Apply for a PDI Licence

16/10/2024

Becoming a driving instructor in the UK is an incredibly rewarding career choice, offering the opportunity to teach new drivers safe and responsible driving habits. If you’re considering this path, obtaining a Provisional Driving Instructor (PDI) licence is an essential first step. This licence allows you to gain practical teaching experience under supervision before qualifying as an Approved Driving Instructor (ADI). This article will guide you through the process of applying for a PDI licence, outline what trainee driving instructors can and can’t do, and answer common questions related to charging for lessons and more.

 

What is the PDI Licence?

A PDI licence is issued to those who are training to become fully qualified driving instructors but have not yet completed all the requirements to receive their ADI licence. It is valid for six months and can be extended only once, giving trainee driving instructors ample time to prepare for and pass the ADI Part 3 test, which assesses instructional ability.

Eligibility Criteria

Before you start your journey towards becoming a driving instructor, you should first assess your current eligibility. To apply for a PDI licence, candidates must meet the following requirements:

• You must have held a full UK or EEA driving licence for at least three years.

• You must be aged 21 or over.

• You will need to have passed both the ADI Part 1 (theory) and Part 2 (driving ability) tests.

 

Additionally, candidates should not have any disqualifications in the four years prior to applying and must meet the fit and proper person requirements set by the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA)</a>.

 

PDI Licence Application Process

The application process for a PDI licence is relatively straightforward and follows a series of steps. To help you understand the steps and what to expect, below is a general overview of the application process:

Step 1: Completing the Necessary Examinations

Before you can apply for a PDI licence, you must successfully pass the ADI Part 1 and Part 2 exams. The Part 1 exam tests your knowledge of driving theory, while the Part 2 exam evaluates your driving skills.

Step 2: DBS Check

All trainee instructors must undergo a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check to ensure there are no background issues that could affect their suitability as an instructor. There is a small fee (£8.22) to undergo a DBS check, but it is mandatory if you want to become an ADI.

Step 3: Submitting Your Application

Once the exams and DBS check are complete, you can apply for your PDI licence via the DVSA. You will need to fill out the ADI 3P form and submit it along with the required fee. Processing times can vary, so it’s advisable to apply well in advance of when you plan to start training.

 

What Can a PDI Licence Holder Do?

Holding a PDI licence is your first step towards becoming a full ADI - but it isn’t the same as being a fully-fledged instructor. There are certain things you can do, though, which can help you gain useful experience and earn a little along the way. As a PDI licence holder, you can provide driving lessons to students and charge for the lessons you provide.

However, it’s important to note that while holding a PDI licence, you must be supervised by a qualified ADI for 20% of all lessons you provide, or you must have regular training with an ADI and maintain a record of this training.

 

What Can’t a PDI Licence Holder Do?

While the PDI licence offers many of the same privileges as the full ADI licence, there are certain restrictions. For example, you cannot present yourself as a fully qualified instructor, so any marketing materials must outline your current status as a PDI licence holder. You must also display your PDI licence in your training vehicle’s windscreen whenever you are teaching a student.

 

Common Questions About the PDI Licence

Holding a PDI licence is a necessary step towards becoming a fully qualified ADI. Even though it’s something all instructors go through, there are still plenty of misconceptions about this licence. So, to help you fully understand its worth and merit, let’s go over a few common questions about the PDI licence:

Can I Charge for Lessons with a PDI Licence?

Yes, you can charge for lessons while holding a PDI licence. This makes it a great way to gain experience and earn an income while completing your qualifications. Just make sure you adhere to the rules outlined above in this article.

How Long is the PDI Licence Valid?

The PDI licence is valid for six months. If necessary, you can apply for a one-time extension, but it’s important to pass the ADI Part 3 test within this period to obtain your full ADI licence.

What Happens if I Don’t Pass the ADI Part 3 Test?

If you fail to pass the ADI Part 3 test within the tenure of your PDI licence (including any extension), you will need to reapply for the Part 1 and Part 2 exams and begin the process again.

 

Prepare for a Career as a Driving Instructor

While the PDI licence is an interim step towards becoming a fully qualified driving instructor, it is a valuable period in which you can hone your teaching skills, understand student needs, and adapt your instruction methods. Take advantage of this time to gather as much experience as possible and make use of the right resources at Grade Six Supplies to make your learning journey a little easier. If you have any questions or would like further guidance around the best resources for PDIs, please contact us today at Grade Six Supplies.

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