Become a Driving Instructor (ADI)
A career as an Approved Driving Instructor (ADI) offers flexibility, independence, and the opportunity to make a real difference by helping people develop a skill for life.
Whether you’re looking for a complete career change or an additional source of income, becoming a driving instructor can be both rewarding and financially attractive.
Is Becoming a Driving Instructor Right for You?
Many experienced drivers believe that because they can drive well, teaching others will come naturally. In reality, being an excellent driver is only one part of becoming a successful instructor.
Professional driving instructors need a combination of technical knowledge, teaching ability, and strong people skills.
Successful ADIs typically demonstrate:
- Excellent driving ability
- A thorough understanding of road safety and driving theory
- The ability to teach and coach learners effectively
- Strong communication and listening skills
- Patience, empathy, and professionalism
- The ability to assess and adapt to each learner’s needs
A Rewarding Career
No two driving lessons are ever the same.
You’ll work with people of different ages, backgrounds, and abilities, helping each learner become a safe, confident driver.
As a driving instructor, you’ll play an important role in preparing learners for both their driving test and a lifetime of safe driving.
Entry Requirements
Before applying to become an Approved Driving Instructor, you must meet the legal requirements set by the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA).
You must:
- Hold a full UK or EU driving licence for at least three years
- Meet the DVSA’s standards of fitness and suitability
- Pass a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check
- Be able to read a vehicle number plate from 27.5 metres (90 feet) with old-style plates (or 20 metres for new-style plates)
The ADI Qualification Process
To qualify as an Approved Driving Instructor, you’ll need to pass three stages of assessment.
Part 1 – Theory Test
The theory test assesses your knowledge of driving, road safety, and instructional techniques.
It consists of:
- 100 multiple-choice questions
- Hazard perception test using video clips
You must pass both sections at the same sitting.
Part 2 – Driving Ability Test
This practical driving assessment lasts approximately one hour and demonstrates that you drive to a consistently high standard.
The examiner will assess:
- General driving ability
- Vehicle control
- Observation and planning
- Use of mirrors and signals
- Manoeuvres
- Driving on a variety of roads, including higher-speed roads where appropriate
Part 3 – Instructional Ability Test
The final assessment measures your ability to teach.
During the test you’ll demonstrate how you would coach a learner through different driving situations while adapting your instruction to their individual needs.
The examiner will assess:
- Lesson planning
- Communication skills
- Risk management
- Teaching and coaching techniques
- Ability to identify and correct faults
- Professionalism
Why Train With Us?
Our comprehensive ADI training programme is designed to help you succeed at every stage of qualification.
We provide:
- Structured training
- Experienced instructor trainers
- Practical coaching and support
- Mock tests and progress reviews
- Ongoing guidance throughout your qualification
Our aim isn’t simply to help you pass your exams—we want to help you become a confident, professional driving instructor with the skills to build a successful career.
Start Your New Career
If you’re ready for a rewarding career that offers flexibility, independence, and the opportunity to help others achieve an important life skill, we’d love to help.
Contact us today to find out more about our ADI training programme and take the first step towards becoming an Approved Driving Instructor.
Our current prices for the ADI course can be found on our prices page.