What does becoming a driving instructor actually entail?
If you’re looking to embark on a new adventure, and becoming a driving instructor sounds as though it might be right up your alley, then you’ve come to the right place! If you love the idea of helping people achieve their dreams and drive along the road to freedom, but want to know what the job actually entails, then read on – as we’re going to tell you everything you need to know about what a driving instructor actually does, behind the scenes.
The training
In order to become a driving instructor, you will need to be over the age of 21, and have had a license for three years, with no previous criminal or motor convictions. You may want to embark on some extra, specialised training before you take the Approved Driving Instructor (ADI) theory and practical tests. Once you have completed and passed the tests, there are opportunities to further your qualification and skillsets if you so wish – if not, then you are ready to buckle up and accelerate into your new career.
Not just a pretty face
Whilst your warm smile and engaging attitude must feel welcoming for students, being a driving instructor can be pretty tiring as it involves having a lot of patience and requires you to be on high-alert most of the time. Your professionalism and driving ability must be at a very high standard, in order to prove how trustworthy you are to your clients and students.
The legal stuff
Not only will you be a great driver, teacher and communicator, but you will be adept in the laws of the road, as well as having a high regard for road safety, as you are responsible for the safety of everyone in your car – as well as anyone who might be affected by it outside. You will have to be registered on the ADI register, and you must make sure you are classified by the DVSA as ‘fit and proper’, to also ensure everyone’s safety. With the right license and training, you will be on your way to becoming a fantastic driving instructor.
Salary
You could work for a franchise, and become a Bill Plant Driving School instructor, which enables you to enjoy the perks and flexibility of the job, without the extra responsibility of running your own business. You could also set up your own driving school, and therefore provide your own car – which can double up for professional and personal use, as well as getting a sole trader license in order to do this. The average salary of a driving instructor is between £30,000 – £35,000 – and with a constant demand for instructors, there is great job stability in this career.
Rewards
Being a driving instructor can be an incredibly challenging, but rewarding job. The feeling you get when creating a unique bond with a student, guiding them on their next venture and watching them pass their test can feel unbeatable, and remind you why you love your job. The hours you’ve spent catering a trusting, learning experience just for them will always pay off – and you will be right with them at their most vulnerable – when they’re scared or if they fail – to pick them back up and boost their confidence again. Just imagine the freedom you are giving them by enabling them to hold the car keys to the rest of their life. How rewarding is that!