While both roles allow you to teach others how to drive, there are key differences in terms of qualifications, responsibilities, and what each role involves.
If you’re thinking about pursuing a career as a driving instructor, it’s essential to grasp the difference between an Approved Driving Instructor (ADI) and a Potential Driving Instructor (PDI).
These terms represent different phases in the journey to becoming a fully certified driving instructor in the UK.
Here’s a breakdown of what ADIs and PDIs are and how they are different.
What is an ADI (Approved Driving Instructor)?
An Approved Driving Instructor (ADI) is a fully qualified and licensed driving instructor.
To become an ADI, an individual must pass a series of tests and meet certain requirements set by the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA). Becoming an ADI involves a three-part process:
Theory Test
The first step is to pass a theory test, which assesses knowledge of road safety, traffic laws, and the theory behind driving. This test ensures that an instructor has a strong understanding of the theoretical aspects of driving.
Practical Driving Test
The next step is a practical driving test. This test evaluates the individual’s ability to drive safely and competently on the road, testing their driving skills in a variety of road conditions.
Instructional Ability Test
The final stage is the instructional ability test. In this test, the individual must demonstrate their ability to teach driving skills effectively. This includes assessing communication skills, teaching techniques, and the overall ability to help learners understand the process of driving.
Once these tests are passed, an individual becomes a fully qualified ADI and is legally allowed to charge for driving lessons.
ADIs can teach students independently, set their own schedules and offer lessons at standard rates.
In addition, ADIs are required to maintain their qualification by undergoing regular checks and completing ongoing training to stay up-to-date with changes in driving laws and teaching techniques.
What is a PDI (Potential Driving Instructor)?
A Potential Driving Instructor (PDI) is someone who is in the process of becoming a fully qualified ADI.
PDIs have already passed the theory and practical driving tests but have not yet completed the final instructional ability test. Essentially, PDIs are still in training and have not yet gained full qualification to teach at the same level as an ADI.
To become a PDI, individuals must first complete 40 hours of training. Once this training is completed, they are issued a pink badge, which allows them to start teaching and charging for lessons.
Here are a few important things to note about the PDI process:
Training and Pink Badge
After completing the required training, you’ll receive a pink badge. This badge allows you to charge for lessons and begin teaching learners. The pink badge is valid for 6 months, and during this time, you must also complete 20 hours of additional training within the first 3 months of receiving the badge.
Second Pink Badge
After the first 6 months, you can apply for a second pink badge, which is valid for another 6 months. This gives you more time to complete the training required to become a fully qualified ADI.
Sponsorship Requirement
As a PDI, you must be sponsored by a driving school. This sponsorship ensures you receive the necessary support and training from an instructor trainer, helping you develop your teaching skills and gain hands-on experience while working towards ADI qualification.
Ongoing Training
For each pink badge you receive, you must complete 20 hours of additional training within the first 3 months of the badge being issued. This ensures that you are continually improving your skills as an instructor and staying on track to qualify as an ADI.
Key Differences Between ADI and PDI
The primary difference between an ADI and a PDI is the level of qualification. An ADI has completed all stages of the qualification process and is fully licensed to teach driving lessons at standard rates, while a PDI is still in the process of qualifying and has not yet passed the final instructional ability test.
Additionally, PDIs must display a pink badge in their vehicle, which indicates that they are still in training and not yet fully qualified. This is a requirement that ADIs do not need to follow, as they have completed all necessary qualifications.
Becoming a driving instructor is a fulfilling and rewarding career, but it requires time, effort, and a commitment to learning. Understanding the difference between an ADI and a PDI is essential if you’re looking to enter this field.
As a PDI, you will have the opportunity to teach learners and gain valuable experience while working towards your full qualification.
Once you become an ADI, you’ll have the freedom to teach independently and offer the full range of driving instruction services.
Whether you’re starting as a PDI or aiming to achieve ADI status, both roles allow you to help others become safe, confident drivers.