Want to become a driving instructor in Manchester? Our driving instructor training helps you prepare for the three DVSA qualifying tests with working Approved Driving Instructors who teach learners across Greater Manchester every week.
You train in a dual control car on the same roads our learners use, from Rochdale town centre to the M60. All our instructors speak English, Urdu and Punjabi, so you can ask questions in the language you are most comfortable with. Tell us where you are in the process and we will explain the training, the cost and the next step.
Ask About ADI Training Call 077 122 122 75
How to Become a Driving Instructor in the UK
To charge for driving lessons in Great Britain you must qualify as an Approved Driving Instructor (ADI) and join the DVSA register. These are the steps and fees set out by GOV.UK:
| Step | What it involves | DVSA fee |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Check you are eligible and apply | Use the GOV.UK eligibility checker, get a new DBS check and start your application | DBS check cost applies |
| 2. ADI part 1 (theory) | 100 multiple choice questions in 1 hour 30 minutes, plus a hazard perception test | £81 |
| 3. ADI part 2 (driving ability) | About one hour of driving to a high standard, including manoeuvres and independent driving | £111 |
| 4. Trainee licence (optional) | A 6 month licence to give paid lessons while you prepare for part 3 | £140 |
| 5. ADI part 3 (instructional ability) | An examiner watches you teach a real pupil for about 45 minutes | £111 |
| 6. Register as an ADI | Join the register within 12 months of passing part 3 | £300 for 4 years |
Once you pass part 1, you have 2 years to pass parts 2 and 3. If you do not, you have to start the whole process again. Fees are correct as listed on GOV.UK and can change, so check before you book.
What Each Test Asks of You
ADI part 1: theory and hazard perception
To pass the multiple choice part you need at least 85 out of 100 overall and at least 20 out of 25 in each of the 4 question groups. To pass hazard perception you need at least 57 out of 75. GOV.UK explains the part 1 test.
ADI part 2: your own driving
The examiner checks that you drive safely and to a high standard in different road and traffic conditions. The test lasts around one hour and includes an eyesight check, 5 vehicle safety questions, manoeuvres and about 20 minutes of independent driving. You get 3 attempts. If you fail the third, you must retake part 1. See the part 2 rules.
ADI part 3: your teaching
You give a client centred lesson to a real pupil for about 45 minutes. The examiner scores you on 17 competences in three areas: lesson planning, risk management and teaching and learning strategies. A total of 31 to 42 earns grade B and 43 to 51 earns grade A. A score of 7 or less in risk management is an automatic fail. Read the part 3 guidance.
How Our Driving Instructor Training Works
- Tell us where you are. You may not have applied yet, you may have passed part 1, or you may be preparing for part 3 on a trainee licence.
- Assessment drive. We watch you drive and agree what needs work before your part 2 test.
- Part 2 preparation. Practice on busy Greater Manchester roads, manoeuvres to a high standard and commentary driving if it helps you.
- Part 3 preparation. You practise planning lessons, managing risk and coaching pupils, with honest feedback after each session.
- Agree when you are ready. We tell you plainly when we think you are ready to book, so you do not spend one of your limited attempts too early.
Is Becoming a Driving Instructor Right for You?
- You enjoy explaining things and stay calm when someone makes a mistake.
- You want flexible hours and are happy to work evenings and weekends.
- Your own driving record is clean and you are ready for a DBS check.
- You can commit time to study for part 1 and to practice for parts 2 and 3.
The Safe Driving for Life website has a free driving instructor suitability assessment you can try first.
Your Questions Answered
How long does it take to become a driving instructor?
It depends on how fast you pass each test and how much time you can give to training. You must pass parts 2 and 3 within 2 years of passing part 1.
How much does it cost to become a driving instructor?
The DVSA fees are £81 for part 1, £111 for part 2, £111 for part 3 and £300 to register, plus £140 if you choose a trainee licence and the cost of a DBS check. Training is extra. Contact us for our current training costs.
Can I teach automatic only?
Yes, you can qualify to teach in an automatic car. The rules depend on your licence, so check the GOV.UK eligibility page before you apply.
What is a pink badge?
A trainee instructor with a trainee licence shows a pink badge in the windscreen. A fully qualified ADI shows a green badge.
Do I need a trainee licence?
No. It is optional. It lets you give paid lessons for 6 months after passing part 2, which gives you real teaching experience before part 3.
Can I train with you in Urdu or Punjabi?
Yes. All our instructors speak English, Urdu and Punjabi. The DVSA tests themselves are in English, and we help you prepare for that.
Start Your Driving Instructor Training
Send us your name, your postcode and which stage you are at. We will call you back to talk through the training and what it costs.
