To become an approved driving instructor (ADI) in England, Scotland or Wales, check your eligibility, apply to the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA), pass three qualifying tests and register as an ADI.

1. Check your eligibility and apply

You must be at least 21, have held a full driving licence for at least three years and have had no driving disqualification in the past four years. DVSA also assesses whether you are suitable to join the register. Check the full eligibility rules on GOV.UK.

Get a new criminal record check for your instructor application before you apply to DVSA, even if you already have a DBS certificate. Once DVSA accepts your application, you can book Part 1.

2. Pass the three ADI tests

1. Part 1: Theory (£81). This covers driving theory and hazard perception.
2. Part 2: Driving ability (£111). You’ll demonstrate your practical driving skills to a DVSA examiner.
3. Part 3: Instructional ability (£111). A DVSA examiner observes you teaching a pupil and assesses how you plan and deliver the lesson and manage risk.

After passing Part 1, you have two years to complete the remaining qualifying tests. Check the current DVSA test and registration fees. Training, the criminal record check and any retests are separate costs.

3. Consider a trainee licence after Part 2

If you meet the conditions, you can apply for a six-month trainee instructor licence (£140) to gain teaching experience while preparing for Part 3. Check the trainee licence rules on GOV.UK.

4. Register as an approved driving instructor

After passing Part 3, apply for your first ADI certificate within 12 months. The first certificate costs £300. Once registered, you can join a driving school or set up your own business.

Find a training option that suits you

Instructor College UK offers driving instructor training programmes with support through all three parts. We can arrange practical training near your home, subject to trainer availability, or you can train at our Bristol training centre. Explore training locations or get the free starter pack for more information.