FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT BECOMING A DRIVING INSTRUCTOR
We get asked a lot of questions and have complied the most popular ones below but if you have any question at all about becoming a driving instructor then get in touch with us.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
How long does it take to become a driving instructor?
Whats the difference between an ADI and PDI driving instructor?
Where does the training take place?
Is the training flexible enough so I can complete it around my current commitments?
How much does it cost to become a driving instructor?
How many times can I sit the tests?
What is a trainee licence?
How much are the licence fees?
Can I become a driving instructor if I have driving offences and convictions?
Do I need to take a CRB check to become a driving instructor?
How to I apply to become a driving instructor?
ANSWERS
How long does it take to become a driving instructor?
The main factors that will determine this are the waiting times at the local test centres, and whether you pass the Part 1 test first time or not. A normal wait for a Part 1 test is 2-3 weeks. Part 2+3 tests can be 4-6 weeks.
Whats the difference between an ADI and PDI driving instructor?
An ADI driiving instructor is fully qualified, can teach independently and must have passed tests on theory, practical driving, & instruction skills.
A PDI driving instructor is currently in training, has passed initial tests but still working towards full qualification. A PDI must display a pink badge while teaching.
Where does the training take place?
Training takes place in an area close to your nearest local test centre that provides the Part 2 and 3 tests.
Is the training flexible enough so I can complete it around my current commitments?
Yes, we will, where possible be available around your current commitments.
How much does it cost to become a driving instructor?
We operate a “no hidden fees” policy when it comes to price so check out out pricing page for a full run down on the costs.
How many times can I sit the tests?
You can sit the Part 1 test as many times as needed until you pass. You are only allowed to sit up to 3 attempts at Part 2 and 3 – if you fail either of these tests 3 times, you will need to start again.
What is a trainee licence?
A trainee licence is a 6-month licence to teach. You will need to have passed your Part 2 test and completed the Part 3 training to qualify for a trainee licence. It will allow you to teach pupils and gain experience before sitting the part 3 test.
How much are the licence fees?
The licence (badge) fees are payable to the DVSA and you will need a trainee licence (pink badge) which is valid for 6 months. An approved driving instructor licence (green badge) is valid for 4 years. You can find the costs on our pricing page.
Can I become a driving instructor if I have driving offences and convictions?
Your application may be refused if you have motoring offences and convictions, been banned from driving, have 5 or more penalty points, have been convicted of any other non-motoring offence like convicted of a sexual, violent, financial or a drug-related crime or been banned from working with children. The ADI Registrar will consider whether or not you are suitable to become a driving instructor.
Do I need to take a CRB check to become a driving instructor?
Yes, you will need to complete a government CRB check which you can access here. The cost is £8.22.
Before you start, you will need to use:
The Organisation Pin: 105205
Secret Word: axis
Organisation Name: PDI (PO)
When you have completed the online application, you must provide proof of identity. You can do this at the post office via the CRB and ID Verification Service. You will need to take a printed page from your online application with barcodes on it and 3 original forms of ID (not copies) which could be your passport, your driving licence, a utility bill that is less than 3 months old, a bank statement that is less than 3 months old
How to I apply to become a driving instructor?
Once you have completed your CRB check and submitted it, you can apply to become a driving instructor on the government website.