Driving Instructor

You first need to apply to become an approved driving instructor.

You can find training providers on the Approved Driving Instructor Register Guide.

You'll need to pass the approved driving instructor part 1 and part 2 exams. You'll then get a licence to give instruction and legally charge for lessons.

You must also pass the part 3 exam to get onto the register of approved driving instructors.

You'll need:

• knowledge of teaching and the ability to design courses
• customer service skills
• the ability to work on your own
• leadership skills
• to be thorough and pay attention to detail
• the ability to come up with new ways of doing things
• patience and the ability to remain calm in stressful situations
• excellent verbal communication skills
• to be able to carry out basic tasks on a computer or hand-held device

Your day-to-day duties may include:

• checking each learner's driving knowledge and ability
• planning a series of lessons to get learners ready for their driving test
• teaching about road safety, driving laws and the Highway Code
• giving instruction on the use of vehicle controls, steering, turning, reversing and parking safely
• demonstrating how to deal with emergency situations
• discussing basic vehicle checks
• keeping records of appointments and payments
• managing your business

You could work from a vehicle, in an office or from home.

Professional and industry bodies

It may help your career if you join a driving instructor association.

Further information

You can find out more about how to become a driving instructor from GOV.UK.

You'll need to:

• pass motoring conviction checks
• pass enhanced background checks
• be able to read a licence plate at 90 feet or 27.5m, with glasses or contact lenses if worn
• have a full UK or EU driving licence, held for at least 3 years
• be over 21 years of age