Driving Instructor Training: Carve Your New Way
Looking for a new path? A new way of life? Or the independence of being your own boss? Driving instructor training might just be the right chance for you. At FDT UK, we provide expert support to help you start your career.
Steps to become a driving instructor
The first part of the qualification comprises two separate tests, both of which you will need to pass.
The theory test assesses your knowledge of the Highway Code, core road safety principles, safe driving techniques, basic first aid, and the principles of teaching a learner. FDT UK provides all the learning materials online, and you can take as many practice tests as you need on our training system to track your progress. This test is 90 minutes long, and you need to achieve a minimum score of 85 percent.
The second part of the test is a hands-on driving test aimed at your ability on the road.
Prospective driving instructors need to pass their theory test before moving on to this practical section.
This practical test has to be taken within two years of your passing your theory test.
The instructional ability test evaluates your skills in educating a student. This is the final level of the qualification process.
Prospects are required to pass both the theory and practice driving exams before they can proceed to this teaching assessment.
You are required to sit this last test within two years of having passed your first theory test.
Once you’ve passed, the DVSA will grant you a provisional license and enable you to ‘teach for reward.’ That is, you can officially become part of FDT UK as a Potential Driving Instructor (PDI) and start giving actual lessons. This part of the process is hugely beneficial in terms of fine-tuning your teaching skills before your Part 3 test, and it also means that you can start earning a living as a driving instructor. Your trainee licence is still valid for six months. Within this time, you’ll continue to be provided with personal, individual in-car training by an FDT UK instructor to prepare you for your final test. Once you’ve passed, you can apply to be included on the DVSA register of Approved Driving Instructors (ADIs). The majority of trainees find this path to be the most rewarding.
A minority of FDT UK trainees choose to train without a trainee license, taking lessons until they feel confident to take their final test.
The Part 3 instructional ability test is about one hour long. A DVSA examiner will watch you teach a client-centered driving lesson to one of your learners, who can be either provisional or full license holder. The examiner will be checking if your instruction complies with national standards for driver and rider training. Choosing the proper training provider when becoming a driving instructor is important, as you get only three chances each for the Part 2 and Part 3 tests.
Why Become a Driving Instructor
Be your own boss
Get behind the wheel of your life! As a driving instructor, you’re in full command, controlling your own schedule and making all major business decisions. Aside from independence, you’ll also have the opportunity to make a real difference in your community and interact with various people on a daily basis.
Balance your work and life
Imagine a job that is suited to your lifestyle. Being a driving instructor means you can dictate your hours and maintain a balanced work-life lifestyle, unlike conventional employment. Enjoy the freedom to balance your commitments whilst making a tangible difference in people’s lives.
Become a qualified expert
Become a respected expert in your profession. This career enables you to build extensive knowledge in driving teaching and leading new drivers with authority and expertise. You’ll have the pleasure of moulding safe road users whilst creating a satisfying career and growing your network.
