Part 1 study support
A clear study plan, recommended DVSA materials and regular check-ins so you walk into the theory test prepared.
Become a driving instructor
Looking for a career change? Train one-to-one with a local DVSA-approved instructor through all three qualifying tests, at a pace that fits around your life.
Why teach people to drive?
Few jobs let you see the difference you make so clearly. You’ll help nervous beginners become confident, safe drivers.
- 01
Be your own boss
Set your own diary, choose your area and build a business around the life you want.
- 02
Flexible hours
Work days, evenings or weekends. Fit lessons around family, study or another job.
- 03
Work that matters
Every pass is someone’s independence: a new job, college, or just getting out and about.
- 04
Never the same day twice
Different pupils, different roads. It’s a job spent out and about, not behind a desk.
Three tests to qualify
Every Approved Driving Instructor in the UK passes the same three DVSA qualifying tests.
- Part 1
Theory & hazard perception
A computer-based test of multiple-choice questions on road procedure, the law and how to teach, followed by a hazard perception clip test.
Unlimited attempts
- Part 2
Driving ability
A practical drive with a DVSA examiner, to a much higher standard than a learner test, including manoeuvres and vehicle safety questions.
Up to 3 attempts
- Part 3
Instructional ability
You give a real lesson to a real pupil while an examiner assesses how well you teach, manage risk and help the pupil learn.
Up to 3 attempts
Your route to the ADI badge
- 1
Apply & background check
Apply to start the process with DVSA and pass an enhanced DBS criminal record check.
- 2
Pass Part 1
Once passed, you have 2 years to complete Parts 2 and 3.
- 3
Pass Part 2
Prove your own driving is to an expert standard.
- 4
Optional trainee licence
After Part 2 you can apply for a 6-month trainee licence and gain paid teaching experience before Part 3.
- 5
Pass Part 3
Show you can teach safely and effectively.
- 6
Register as an ADI
Join the ADI register within 12 months and start charging for lessons.
Training with Driving First
One-to-one training with a working local instructor, on the same roads your future pupils will learn on.
Part 2 driving coaching
One-to-one in-car sessions to polish your own driving to examiner standard, with mock tests on local roads.
Part 3 teaching practice
Lesson planning, risk management and coaching skills, with role-play where your trainer plays different kinds of pupils.
Support all the way
Honest feedback, help with trainee licence questions and someone to call when you get stuck.
Could you become an instructor?
To start the qualifying process, DVSA requires that you:
- Held a full car driving licence for at least 3 of the last 4 years
- No driving ban in the last 4 years
- Able to pass an enhanced DBS criminal record check
- Meet the eyesight standard for driving
- Patient, calm and enjoy helping people learn
Full eligibility rules are on GOV.UK.
Instructor training questions
How long does it take to become a driving instructor?
It depends on how much time you can give it. Many people qualify in roughly 6 to 12 months. Whatever your pace, DVSA rules say you must pass Parts 2 and 3 within 2 years of passing Part 1.
Can I keep my current job while I train?
Yes. Part 1 is mostly home study, and in-car training can be arranged around your work. Many trainees keep their job until they qualify or start on a trainee licence.
What is a trainee licence?
Once you’ve passed Part 2 you can apply to DVSA for a 6-month trainee licence. It lets you give paid lessons under supervision so you gain real teaching experience before your Part 3 test. It’s optional.
Will a criminal record stop me?
Not necessarily. DVSA decides whether you’re a “fit and proper” person case by case, looking at things like how serious and how recent an offence was. Some offences make it unlikely you’ll be accepted. Check GOV.UK for the full guidance.
How much does instructor training cost?
Get in touch for current course options and prices. On top of training, DVSA charges fees for each test and for registration; these are listed on this page and on GOV.UK.
Ready to swap seats?
Have a no-pressure chat about whether instructing is right for you, and what training would look like.