How to choose a driving instructor

In the UK, driving instructors are licensed by the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA). Only licensed instructors (ADIs) or DVSA licensed instructors under training can charge you for driving instruction.

The DVSA offers a 'Find an instructor' service - click here to access it.

How can I tell if a driving instructor is DVSA approved?

It is important to check the badge in the driving instructor’s windscreen. A green octagonal badge shows the instructor is fully qualified and an ADI.

A pink triangular badge shows the instructor is not yet fully qualified, but undertaking practical training. They are allowed to charge for driving instruction but should they really charge the same as a fully qualified instructor?

What’s the best way to find a good driving instructor?

The best way is to ask your friends and family to recommend a driving instructor. If they enjoyed learning to drive with a particular instructor, the chances are that you will, too.

You could also check out Facebook and Google for reviews like these.

Driving schools or independent?

Some driving instructors work by themselves, while others are part of bigger driving schools such as the AA or Red. Whichever driving instructor you decide to go with, try to talk to the instructor (not a salesperson) before booking any lessons.

If you call the Broughton School of Motoring (on 01652 638155 or 0784 00 55 462 you’ll definitely speak to your instructor. You can also arrange a free home visit before you book so you can see if you're going to get on with each other before you have any driving lessons.

What qualities should you expect in a good driving instructor?

Good driving instructors should make the most of your lesson time.

You should have their full attention throughout the lesson, with no stops to pick up or drop off, fill-up with fuel or make phone calls - it's illegal for an instructor to use a mobile phone or similar device.

They shouldn’t shout or make you feel uncomfortable in any way, even if things go wrong.

Your driving instructor should always:

• Be patient, reliable and punctual;
• Arrive in a clean well-maintained car;
• Abide by the DVSA Code of Conduct for driving instructors;
• Have a prepared lesson plan based on the DVSA Syllabus.

Price is important but…

Don’t be tempted to go for the cheapest driving lessons you can find.

As with most things in life, you get what you pay for and cheap driving lessons might end up being very expensive in the long run. Much better to pay a bit more, get taught properly and pass first time! It will work out cheaper in the long run, I promise you.

More about driving lesson prices.

Call Steve Watson on 01652 638155 or call/text 07840055462 to ask a question, arrange a home visit or book your driving lesson.