Driving instructors teach new driver and offer refresher courses for senior drivers. Approved driving instructor is a job that fits with your way of life due to the fact you are able to choose your own working hours. Anyone can be a self-employed driving instructor in UK because there are no age limits or initial qualification barriers. If you love to drive and like to mix with people, you can be the approved driving instructor.

To become the DSA Approved Driving Instructors (ADI), you must pass a three part examinations:

1. Theory Test: This will test your understanding of driving theory, regulations and rules.
2. Driving Test: This is an advanced level driving test which is comparable to the current tests for learner drivers.
3. Practical Test: This is a test of coaching ability. Examiners will play the role of a learner driver and expects you to give them a driving lesson.

Since these driving instructor exams are very tough, you need driving instructor training. To give yourself a better chance of passing, it is in your interests to select the most perfect driving instructor training course. Prior to making any decision, you may have to figure out exactly what the course offers, the jobs, training periods and qualification rates. This is crucial to ensure that you do not get caught out by deceptive claims.

It is encouraged by the Driving Standards Agency (DSA) that you need to inquire potential training organisations the following questions before deciding on the one that you will choose to assist you to qualify as an Approved Driving Instructor (ADI).

The trainer

• What ADI grade is your trainer?
• The success rate of the trainer.
• Are they aware of the national pass rates for each part of the ADI examinations?

Driving Instructor Courses

• How much is the course likely to cost you? You need to know if the books and test fees are inclusive.
• How long does the course take?
• What can you learn from the course?
• Should you fail your attempt, do you get extra assistance from training school?
• Do you need to pay more for extra attempts?
• Is the course customisable if you need more than the training that is offered?
• Do they check your suitability to become an ADI before the start of the course?
• What teaching method would be used?
• Do they track your progress?
• Are there going to be any other trainees in the car with you?
• Are they going to provide dates for each of your lessons at the start of the course?

Trainee licence

• Is a trainee licence necessary?
• Does the training school guarantee a trainee position? Is it able to supply sufficient pupil for your needs?

Flexibility

• Could you be allowed to train part time when you are working on existing job?
• Would you need longer time if you are trying to do two jobs at once?

Payment

• Any refund policy?
• Could you receive any refunded fees in the event that you are unable to finish the course?
• What are the duties of your trainer, training center and you under the agreement.
• Would they accept installment plan?

When You Are Qualified

• Will the students be provided driving instructor jobs for a driving school? What amount would you earn and what is your cost?
• What would be the setup cost?
• Will there be a loan available?
• Are you going to be able to work in the same area as the driving school if you do the job as a self-employed ADI?
• Are you tied to the school for any set period?