Most people nowadays need professional tuition.

 

Some considerations when choosing a driving instructor -

 

Choosing the right school !

 

If you are paying someone to teach you to drive, they must be approved and registered with the Driving Standards Agency (DSA). Only a registered approved driving instructor (ADI) can charge money for teaching you to drive.
A fully qualified approved driving instructor (ADI) must display a green certificate on the windscreen of the car while teaching you. Some trainee driving instructors are granted a licence so they can gain experience before their qualifying examination. In this case, the trainee driving instructor must display a pink certificate on the windscreen.
DSA is responsible for maintaining and checking the standards of all approved driving instructors (ADI), who to qualify must:

  • have held a full driving licence for at least four years
  • pass a much tougher theory test than the one learner drivers take
  • pass a strict driving test
  • achieve, and maintain a high standard of instruction. The standard of tuition given by the ADI is regularly checked by a supervising examiner from DSA
  • be registered with DSA
  • display an ADI identification certificate on the windscreen of the tuition vehicle



Instructors who are approved, must display their certificate (badge) on the windscreen of the car.

 

A valid licence (dated and a picture of the ADI on the reverse side)

Pick someone who has a good reputation. (Ask relatives & friends).

 

How many lessons you need will vary for each person.

Safe driving is a skill for life!

 

Your instructor is paid to teach, but you must be willing to learn, put in  plenty of practice, and spend time studying the theory.


A good instructor won’t send you for a test, unless they think you are ready. (capable of passing a test, and a safe driver).

 

Quality tuition is money well spent!

 

 

You should take advice from your ADI on:

  • all aspects of driving
  • what books to read
  • when to take your test
  • how to practice

DSA, as a government agency, is not allowed to recommend an instructor. You could look in a local business directory for ADIs in your area. Try and choose an instructor who:

  • has a good reputation
  • is reliable and punctual
  • has a car that suits you

 

Here are questions to ask prior to choosing a school.

Will your instructor:

  • be a DSA registered instructor? Is the licence posted in the vehicle?

  • Is the licence GREEN?

  • be the same person all the way through your training program?

  • have significant driving experience? How much?

  • be associated with professional associations which promote driver excellence?

  • can you choose a specific instructor about whom you've heard good things?