Driving Instructor

A driving instructor teaches those who haven't obtained their driver's license how to operate a vehicle according to driving standards. The focus of the driving instructor is to ensure that the student knows how to drive safely and can efficiently pass a driving test and get their license. A driving instructor teaches students how to safely and confidently operate a motor vehicle, ensures that the passenger understands road safety as well as to identify an unsafe vehicle, how to observe the Highway Code and driving laws, and basic operation of the vehicle. Driving skills often taught by instructors to students include turning, driving in reverse, how to park, and basic maneuvers.

Those interested in becoming a driving instructor must have excellent driving skills and have driven for at least four of the past six years. Since many students might be anxious, nervous, or fearful, a driving instructor must have the ability to calm students down and speak in a calm manner. Being flexible will also ensure that you can easily adapt your teaching method to each student. When students make mistakes, the driving instructor must be alert and prevent dangerous situations from taking place, while at the same time, not causing the student to become unnecessarily frustrated. A gentle, calm and patient, yet firm attitude is best.

To become a driving instructor, you will need to register with the Driving Standards Agency and then train to become an Approved Driving Instructor. Contacting the Driving Standards Agency is your first step. The test is composed of three different sections and includes theory (this part of the test is performed on a computer), practical driving and practical teaching. Each part of the test runs consecutively; you must pass one part before progressing to the next. To find a qualified school that provides ADI testing contact the Official Register of Driving Instructor Training. Once you become a registered Approved Driving Instructor you will have to keep your registration up to date by renewing every four years.

Work hours vary and are often centred upon the needs of each student. You might find that holidays, weekends and evening hours are the most in demand due to the fact that many students will have these times available as they will be free from school. Those who become Approved Driving Instructors can expect to earn approximately £16,000 during their first year. This can increase up to around £25,000 per year as a driving instructor becomes more established and gains more students. Successful, experienced driving instructors can earn over £30,000 per year and more.

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