What is involved?
These pages provide detailed information on the requirements and the qualifying process for becoming a Driving Instructor.
Qualifying Process: Overview
Entry requirements
Before embarking on your training to become a Driving Instructor you will need to do two things:
- Apply for your criminal record check via the DSA’s contractor
- Apply to the DSA Registrar to enter the register as a Potential Driving Instructor (PDI).
To be accepted onto the DSA Register, you must:
- Have held a full UK car driving licence for a total of at least four out of the past six years prior to entering the Register after qualifying
- Not have been disqualified from driving at any time in the four years prior to being entered in the Register
- Be a ‘fit and proper’ person to have your name entered in the Register.
The qualifying process
You must complete and pass three tests to complete your Instructor training to become a fully qualified, Approved Driving Instructor.
Part 1: Theory
This consists of a multiple choice advanced theory test and a video-based hazard perception test
Part 2: Driving ability
This consists of an eyesight test followed by an advanced practical driving test
Part 3: Instructional ability
This consists of a practical driving test to assess your ability to instruct.
There is no limit to the number of attempts you may have at the Part 1 test. You are only allowed three attempts at each of the two practical tests. If you do not pass either in the three attempts you must wait until the end of your two-year period before you can start again, beginning with Part 1.
You must apply for registration as an Approved Driving Instructor within 12 months of successfully passing the final part of the Driving Instructor training qualifying examination.
