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Who Can Trainee Driving Instructors Provide Lessons To?

30/09/2024

Becoming a driving instructor in the UK involves a structured process that ensures each instructor is fully qualified and capable of teaching learner drivers the skills they need to pass the driving test. However, many people in training (known as Potential Driving Instructors or PDIs) have questions about who they can provide lessons to, the legal limitations of doing so, and whether they can charge for these lessons. This article will explore what trainee driving instructors can and can't do, answering common questions to provide clear guidance.

 

The Role of a Trainee Driving Instructor (PDI)

A trainee driving instructor, or Potential Driving Instructor (PDI), is someone who has passed the first two parts of the Approved Driving Instructor (ADI) qualification process. However, they haven’t yet completed the third and final stage - the practical test of instructional ability. The ADI qualification is split into three parts:

• Part 1: Theory and Hazard Perception Test.

• Part 2: Driving Ability Test.

• Part 3: Instructional Ability Test.

After passing Part 1 and Part 2, PDIs can apply for a trainee licence, which allows them to gain real-world teaching experience before taking the Part 3 test. This licence is valid for six months and is subject to specific rules and conditions.

 

Who Can Trainee Driving Instructors Teach?

PDIs can provide driving lessons to anyone who holds a valid UK provisional or full driving licence. However, the rules and guidelines for teaching learners are stricter for PDIs than for fully qualified Approved Driving Instructors (ADIs). PDIs are allowed to teach both complete beginners and more experienced learners, but they must work within the limitations of their trainee licence and adhere to their supervisory arrangements.

Learner Drivers

Trainee driving instructors can provide lessons to learner drivers, but they must be operating under the supervision of an ADI. This supervision doesn’t always mean that the ADI needs to be physically present in the car during each lesson. However, the trainee must have access to regular guidance and oversight from their supervising ADI, ensuring that the quality of instruction meets the necessary standards.

It’s also important for PDIs to be honest with their learners, informing them that they are still in training. Transparency helps build trust between the instructor and learner, and learners have the right to know if their instructor is a PDI rather than a fully qualified ADI.

Friends and Family

Many trainee driving instructors consider offering lessons to friends or family members while they build their skills and confidence. While there’s no legal restriction against providing lessons to friends or family, the same rules apply as they would for any learner: the PDI must be working under the supervision of an ADI and within the terms of their trainee licence.

There are a few tips you can employ to gain experience as a PDI, such as teaching friends or family members. However, this can sometimes present challenges, such as maintaining professionalism during the lessons. PDIs should approach these lessons with the same seriousness and structure they would use with any other learner to ensure they are effectively preparing the learner for the driving test.

 

Can Trainee Driving Instructors Charge for Lessons?

Yes, trainee driving instructors can charge for lessons, provided they hold a valid trainee licence. This licence allows them to legally provide paid lessons to learner drivers. Charging for lessons helps PDIs gain practical experience while earning an income, which is vital during the training period.

That said, some PDIs may choose to offer discounted lessons or special rates, especially if they are still building their skills and confidence. However, this is not a requirement, and PDIs are within their rights to charge market rates if they feel comfortable doing so. One way to add value to lessons as a PDI is to focus on providing useful resources for learners, such as theory test papers and online theory training tools.

It’s also worth noting that PDIs must display their trainee licence in the vehicle during all lessons. The trainee licence is a pink badge (compared to the green badge held by fully qualified ADIs), and it must be visible at all times to ensure compliance with regulations.

 

Supervision and Training Requirements for PDIs

One of the key conditions of holding a trainee licence is that PDIs must receive regular supervision and guidance from a fully qualified ADI. This supervision typically involves a mix of in-car guidance, where the ADI might observe lessons and other forms of support such as lesson planning and post-lesson feedback.

Minimum Supervision Requirements

The Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) sets out specific supervision requirements for PDIs, which include:

• 20% of all lessons provided by the PDI must be supervised by an ADI.

• The PDI must receive at least 40 hours of training from a qualified ADI before they are allowed to begin teaching learners.

• Throughout the trainee period, PDIs must keep their skills up to date and follow their ADI’s guidance to ensure they are delivering safe, high-quality instruction.

Failing to meet these supervision requirements can lead to penalties, including the potential revocation of the trainee licence.

 

Limitations and Restrictions for Trainee Driving Instructors

While trainee driving instructors have many opportunities to build their teaching skills, there are some limitations they must be aware of during the trainee period. Understanding these restrictions helps PDIs stay compliant with the law and ensures that learners receive the quality of instruction they need.

The Six-Month Trainee Licence

The trainee licence is valid for six months, and PDIs cannot continue to provide lessons under this licence once it expires. During this time, PDIs should aim to complete their Part 3 Instructional Ability Test. If they fail to pass this test within the six months, they will need to either stop teaching or apply for an extension of the trainee licence, which is not guaranteed.

No 'Full' Driving Instructor Status

PDIs should remember that they are not fully qualified driving instructors. While they can provide lessons and charge for them, they cannot present themselves as ADIs or imply that they have completed all the qualification stages. Misrepresenting their qualifications could lead to penalties from the DVSA and damage their reputation.

 

Building Experience is Key as a PDI

Trainee driving instructors play a valuable role in helping learners gain the skills they need to become safe, confident drivers. While PDIs are allowed to teach learner drivers and charge for lessons, they must operate under the supervision of a fully qualified ADI and adhere to the limitations of their trainee licence. By understanding the rules and seeking regular guidance, PDIs can make the most of their training period and prepare to become fully qualified driving instructors.

If you’re looking for useful resources to use as a PDI, then Grade Six Supplies has you covered. Take a look at our latest tools, guides and learning resources today or get in touch with our team if you have any questions.

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