Driving instructors teach new driver about driving. They also offer refresher courses for individuals who have not been driving for awhile. Driving instructor is a job that fits with your way of life since you can select your own working hours. Any individual could be a self-employed driving instructor in UK because there are actually no age limits or initial qualification barriers. An approved driving instructor can be the ideal job for you if you like driving and teaching people how to drive.
Before you can work as a driving instructor you must pass the DSA Approved Driving Instructor (ADI) qualifying exam and become accepted onto the ADI Register. The qualifying exam comprises of three parts:
- Theory Test: This would examine your understanding of driving theory, regulations and rules.
- Driving Test: This is an advanced level driving examination which is similar to the current tests for learner drivers.
- Practical Test: It tests your ability to teach. Examiners will test your teaching ability by pretending to be the learner driver.
As these driving instructor exams are very challenging, you should have driving instructor training. To give yourself a better chance of passing, it is in your interests to pick the most perfect driving instructor course. Before you make any decision, you will have to understand precisely what the course offers, the jobs, training periods and qualification rates. This is crucial to ensure that you do not get caught out by inaccurate claims.
It is suggested by the Driving Standards Agency (DSA) that you must ask potential training organisations the following questions before deciding on which one you will pick 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
- What amount is the course going to cost you? You have to know if the books and test fees are inclusive.
- How long does the course take?
- What would you learn from the course?
- Can you get extra support when you fail your qualifying test?
- Do you have to pay for extra attempts?
- Would they be able to meet your needs 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 would be the teaching method?
- Would they provide a training record detailing your progress?
- Are there going to be any other trainees in the car with you?
- Are they likely to provide dates for each of your lessons at the start of the course?
Trainee licence
- Is a trainee licence needed?
- 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?
- Will you need longer time if you are attempting to do two jobs at once?
Payment
- Any refund policy?
- Do you receive any refunded fees in case you cannot complete the course?
- What are the duties of your trainer, training center and you under the contract.
- Do they accept installment plan?
When You Are Qualified
- Are they likely to offer driving instructor jobs? What would be your salary? What would you be responsible for paying?
- What will be the setup cost?
- Is there a loan available?
- Will you be allowed 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 a set period?