Tips for Becoming a Driving Instructor

30/05/2023

Everyone wants to be their own boss and work whatever hours they desire. As a driving instructor, you can get the flexible lifestyle most people can only dream of. Additionally, you get to teach people how to drive safely and prevent deadly car accidents.

While the start-up costs are low, becoming an approved driving instructor takes more than good driving skills. You can have the best vehicle and years of experience on the road, but you won't make a cent without customers.

Here are some tips on how to become an ADI and what you'll need to succeed.

What It Means to Be a Certified UK Driving Instructor

An ADI, or Approved Driving Instructor, has the certifications necessary to instruct new drivers. It is illegal in the UK to teach drivers for money without the correct certifications by the Driving and Vehicle Standards Agency.

Driving instructors make anywhere between £18,000 and £44,000 depending on how much they work. But, as with all things in life, you'll get more out of it the more you put into it.

It's important to know the difference between an ADI and a PDI.

A PDI, or Potential Driving Instructor, is employed by an already existing driving school. They teach students how to drive while also pursuing additional training to become an ADI. Since a PDI doesn't hold the necessary certification yet, they cannot run their own personal business for driving instruction.

To become a PDI needs considerable commitment. You need to pass a comprehensive theory test (part 1) and then an advanced driving test (part 2) before seeking sponsorship from a driving school to complete your training for a Part 3 Standards Check. Only when you pass the final part can you be qualified as an ADI.

Steps for Becoming a Driving Instructor

Becoming a driving instructor in the UK requires more than just applying for a job or deciding to become one. There are specific certifications you have to qualify for, tests to take, and equipment to purchase.

It can take at least six months to complete their qualification, but you also need to have been driving safely for at least three years as well.

Check Eligibility

Before you even think of applying for ADI training, consider if you're eligible.

In the UK, you need to have held a driving license for a minimum of three years and have acceptable eyesight, with or without glasses or contacts. You also need to allow the Government to complete a Criminal Records Bureau check.

The Criminal Records Bureau (CRB) check can be done online and can take two to six weeks. After that, you'll receive a disclosure number that is necessary for registering as a PDI.

Even though some learners take lessons in their own vehicles, you should also have your own car for work purposes.

Apply and Pursue Training

Potential driving instructors in the UK start the application process through Gov.uk. You can check whether or not you can become a driving instructor on the same website.

After you've applied, you now need to seek practical training. Both the training and materials cost a varying amount depending on what you choose. Once again, you can find this through Gov.uk using their finder tool.

It's important to get as much practice as possible and study up because each test attempt costs a certain amount.

Get Tested

There are three tests a potential ADI must take before they can become a certified driving instructor.

Part 1 can be attempted as many times as you need. However, it also costs £81.00 for every attempt, so can add up over time.

Although Part 1 has no limit on attempts, Part 2 and Part 3 only allow a maximum of three attempts each. So if you fail either of them three times, you have to begin the process all over again.

There are specific training sessions and materials for each of the tests that cost a varying amount. The fee for Part 2 is £111.00, and the fee for Part 3 is also £111.00. Both require payment for every attempt.

When all the required tests are passed, you have to apply for your ADI license, which costs £300.00. You also have to renew this registration for the same amount every four years.

Set Up Your Vehicle

Even though you don't need a special vehicle to be a certified UK driving instructor, there are modifications you can make for an improved teaching experience.

One popular option is dual controls for your car. Dual controls are an extra set of pedals that allow the instructor to stop the car from the passenger seat if necessary. In some cases, they include an additional steering wheel.

While dual pedals aren't legally required, most instructors use them. So consider them a necessary investment if you want to start your own driving school.

Marketing Yourself

Becoming a UK driving instructor doesn't mean you're suddenly set for work. You still need to acquire pupils who want to learn from you, and the best way to do that is to market your new business.

Your first step should be setting up a driving school website. Most people find businesses they need through the internet.

On the same line, you should leverage social media and Google Ads to get people's attention. Pay for ads on Facebook or let Google show your business on their search results.

On the physical side, invest in ADI supplies to help build your business. These include car roof signs, vinyl and magnetic signs, and other promotional materials.

A vehicle roof sign markets your business as you drive your car around. Customise it however you like to match your web presence and logo. Don't forget to include your phone number.

Prepare for the Long Drive

Becoming a driving instructor isn't an overnight process. There's studying, training, tests, and financial investments that go into it. However, you'll come out the other side an independent business owner.

Check out our supplies if you're interested in ADI certification. We offer training aids, books, and other ADI supplies. Contact us if you'd like to know more about our stock.