Why Should You Become a Driving Instructor?
Flexible Working Hours
One of the biggest reasons people choose to become a driving instructor is the flexibility it offers. Unlike traditional 9-to-5 jobs, being a driving instructor means you can set your own working hours. Whether you’re looking to work full-time or just a few days a week, you can tailor your schedule around your lifestyle.
This makes it an excellent career option for parents, caregivers, or anyone wanting to achieve a better work-life balance. You can plan lessons around school drop-offs, family commitments, or even take time off when you need to, without having to ask for permission from a boss. If you become a driving instructor, you’re in control of your time—and that’s a rare and valuable perk in today’s working world.
Job Satisfaction
When you become a driving instructor, you’re not just teaching someone how to operate a vehicle—you’re giving them a life skill that opens doors to freedom, independence, and new opportunities. Watching a student progress from a complete beginner to a confident, licensed driver can be incredibly rewarding.
This is especially true when working with nervous or first-time drivers who may lack confidence. Helping them overcome their fears and succeed on their driving test creates a real sense of pride. Every lesson is a chance to make a positive impact, and many instructors find deep personal satisfaction in seeing their students achieve such a major life milestone.
Good Earning Potential
Choosing to become a driving instructor can lead to a financially stable and lucrative career. As you build your reputation and attract more students, your income can grow steadily. You’ll earn per lesson, which means the more you teach, the more you can make. Plus, as demand for lessons is consistently strong, especially in urban areas, there’s always potential to maintain a full schedule.
For those with an entrepreneurial mindset, there’s also the option to run your own business. Many experienced instructors eventually expand their services, offering intensive driving courses, motorway lessons, or even refresher training for drivers returning to the road. Some go a step further and hire additional instructors under their brand, turning their solo venture into a thriving driving school. If you’re looking for a career with real growth potential, choosing to become a driving instructor is a smart move.
How to Become a Driving Instructor?
1. Check Eligibility
To become a driving instructor in the UK, you must meet certain eligibility criteria. Firstly, you must be at least 21 years old and have held a full UK driving license for a minimum of three years. You must also have no more than six penalty points on your driving license and not have been disqualified from driving in the past four years.
2. DBS Checks for Driving Instructor
As a driving instructor, you will be working closely with members of the public, including children and vulnerable adults. Therefore, you will need to complete a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check to ensure you are a suitable candidate for the role.
3. Register to be an Instructor
If you’ve passed the ADI Part 3 test within the last 12 months, the next step to become a driving instructor is to apply for your first approved driving instructor (ADI) badge. You can complete your application online through the official Department for Transport service. The registration fee is £300, and you’ll need a debit or credit card to make the payment. The online service is available daily from 6:00am to 11:30pm. Start your application now and move one step closer to becoming a fully qualified driving instructor.
4. Practice Theory Test (Part 1)
The first step in becoming a driving instructor is to pass the approved driving instructor (ADI) theory test. This test consists of two parts – multiple choice questions and a hazard perception test. You must score at least 85% on the multiple choice questions and 57 out of 75 on the hazard perception test to pass.
5. Book your Theory Test (Part 1)
You can book the Part 1 test online through the official government service. The test includes multiple-choice questions and a hazard perception section, so it’s important to prepare thoroughly. Once you pass Part 1, you’ll be ready to move on to the next stage in your journey to become a qualified driving instructor.
6. Theory (Part 1) Examination
Complete and pass your Part 1 Examination.
7. Book your Practical Driving Instructor Lessons for Part 2
Once you have passed the ADI theory test and completed a DBS check, you can start your driving instructor training course. There are many training providers across the UK that offer these courses. The course will consist of both theoretical and practical training, including in-car training with a qualified driving instructor.
8. Book your Practical (Part 2) Test
An important step in becoming a driving instructor is to pass the practical driving test. This test assesses your ability to teach a learner driver and ensure they are safe and confident behind the wheel. You will need to demonstrate a high level of driving skill, as well as excellent communication and teaching skills.
9. Practical (Part 2) Examination
Complete and pass your Part 2 Examination.
Part 3 – Becoming a Teacher
The final step to become a driving instructor is passing the ADI Part 3 test. This stage focuses on your ability to teach students how to drive safely and confidently. You’ll gain hands-on experience by giving real driving lessons under supervision. During this time, you’ll learn how to plan lessons, assess learner progress, and adapt your teaching style to suit different students. Once you’re ready, you’ll take the Part 3 test, where a DVSA examiner will assess your instructional skills in a live lesson with a real learner driver. Passing this stage means you’re fully qualified and ready to start your new career as an approved driving instructor.
10. 40 Hours of Driving Instructor Lessons (Compulsory) – for Part 3
11. 20 Hours of Driving Instructor Lessons (Compulsory) – for Part 3
12. Book your Teaching Skills for Part 3
The Part 3 test focuses on your ability to plan lessons, communicate clearly, and adapt your teaching to suit the needs of your learner. It’s your chance to show that you can teach safely, effectively, and professionally. You can book your Part 3 test online once you’ve completed your training and feel confident in your teaching ability.
