DSA Driving Instructor Courses - Qualification and Registration

The major investment anyone thinking of becoming a driving instructor has to make is choosing the right driving instructor training. This article provides information on the necessary qualification, the awarding authority, and personal traits necessary to succeed with the training, in order to assist anyone considering this career opportunity to make a more informed decision when choosing between the various driving instructor courses that are available.

The Register
The Register of Approved Driving Instructors (ADI) was introduced in October 1964 on a voluntary basis, and by October 1970 new legislation was introduced making it a legal requirement that anyone who wished to give paid instruction in cars had to qualify and have their name entered into the Register. Further changes have taken place over the years, and today's driving instructors are known as Driving Standards Agency Approved Driving Instructors (Car).

The Driving Standards Agency
The Driving Standards Agency (DSA) is the executive agency responsible for conducting all statutory theory and practical driving tests. The Agency is also responsible for maintaining the Register of Approved Driving Instructors.

The ADI Register
The Register was set up to maintain and improve standards of driving instruction, and ensure a minimum standard of tuition.

Under the provisions of the Road Traffic Act 1988, it is illegal for anyone to charge for instruction unless they are listed on the Register of Approved Driving Instructors, or that they hold a Trainee's Licence' issued by the Registrar.

Responsibilities of an ADI
An ADI?s responsibilities extend beyond driving instruction, to include setting high standards of driving and behaviour in new drivers whatever their age or experience, making the job very demanding but also extremely rewarding.

Accordingly, an ADI is expected to demonstrate:

1. A high regard for all aspects of road safety


2. A high standard of driving and instructional ability


3. A professional approach to your customers


4. A responsible attitude to your pupils and profession


5. That you are a fit and proper person

Is this the Career for You?

The job involves

1. mixing with all sorts of people, some of whom you may not find it easy to get on with.


2. good people skills and a lot of patience and understanding, as well as


3. a thorough knowledge of the theory and practice of driving


4. an ability to teach


5. the ability to stay on top of changes in the regulations governing the content and conduct of driving tests, as well as driving instruction


6. providing a professional service to clients of all backgrounds.


7. a keen business sense


8. working unsociable hours to fit in with your pupils' needs.


9. being responsible for your own safety, that of your pupil and other road users.


10. having high level of concentration throughout your working day. Your last lesson of the day has to be conducted with the same enthusiasm and competence as your first, which can be difficult.