Driving instructor training FAQ

What are the requirements to train as a driving instructor?
You will need to hold a full UK driving licence for a minimum of three and a half years and your licence must have no more than 5 penalty points. Also you will need to undergo a criminal record check. If these requirements are met, you can then order the ADI starter pack.

Where can I get the ADI starter pack?
The ADI starter pack can be ordered by calling the DSA on 0870 121 4202. The current cost of the pack is £5.00.

What is the ADI starter pack?
The ADI starter pack (ADI 14) contains:

• Explanatory Booklet (ADI 14)
• Application Form (ADI 3)
• Application Form (ADI 3)
• Official Register of Driving Instructor Training Establishments
• DL25 Sample Driving Test Report form
• Reference Template
• List of driving theory test centres

How do you become a DSA approved driving instructor?
To become a DSA approved driving instructor your will need to enter onto the DSA register (ADI 3 application form), then pass all three qualifying exams. These are:

• Part 1 is a theory based exam similar to the learner driver theory test
• Part 2 is a test of your driving ability
• Part 3 is a test of your ability to teach
  

How long does the training take in order to become a Fully qualified DSA approved driving instructor?
Training will be based on your current commitments and the DSA test waiting times for your area. Generally around 6 to 9 months is the average time taken. You can however work full time providing paid instruction if you are granted a Trainee Instructor Licence.

What is a Trainee Instructor Licence and how do I get one?
After you have passed your part 2 test and have completed at least 40 hours part 3 training you will then become eligible to apply for a Trainee Instructor Licence. In order to apply for the licence, your completed part 3 training will need to be signed by a fully qualified driving instructor.

How much does the training cost to become a driving instructor?
You can pay up to £3500.00 for driving instructor training. At Bury St Edmunds Instructor Training, the fee for the full course is £2240. This will be with the same highly experienced trainer throughout your course and no car sharing.

Driving instructor FAQ

What happens after I have completed my training?
Your training provider may offer you a position within their school or you may wish to start your own school. If starting with a driving school, then read the contract thoroughly. They may tie you into long contracts with a hefty franchise fee and no guarantee of pupils.

How much can I expect to earn as a driving instructor?
It depends on many things. You can work for a driving school. A well known national driving school for example can charge over £350.00 per week for their franchise fee. This will include a dual controlled car and pupils, although they do not guarantee how many pupils they provide. You will also be required to sign a contract.

A local school such as Bury St Edmunds Driving School do not offer dual controlled cars for you to lease however we do offer dual controlled cars to our pupils to learn in. If you do not have your own vehicle to use, leasing a vehicle from around £60.00 per week is an option. The franchise fee is £85.00 per week and there is no contract to sign.

An example of weekly earnings based on a 40 hour week at £22.00 per hour:

If I join your school as either a fully qualified ADI or a PDI, what areas do you cover?
We provide driving lessons in Cambridge, Huntingdon, Ely, Newmarket and Bury St Edmunds.