UK Career Advice

Defensive Driving Instructor: Key Skills, Qualifications and Career Path

Career Overview
Interview Questions

What is a Defensive Driving Instructor?

As a Defensive Driving Instructor, your job would be to teach students how to drive in a way that could reduce the risk of accidents, emphasizing safety and predictability. This involves instructing on strategies like maintaining safe distances, anticipating potential hazards, and proper speed management.

How do I become a Defensive Driving Instructor?

As a Defensive Driving Instructor, your job would be to teach students how to drive in a way that could reduce the risk of accidents, emphasizing safety and predictability. This involves instructing on strategies like maintaining safe distances, anticipating potential hazards, and proper speed management.

What would you like to know?

What does it take to become an Defensive Driving Instructor?

Skills, education, personality, career progression

Job demand for an Defensive Driving Instructor

Job ads, popular location, season to apply



Skills

  • Excellent knowledge of road safety regulations and defensive driving techniques
  • Strong communication and interpersonal skills to effectively teach and guide students
  • Patience and adaptability to cater to the individual learning needs of students
  • Ability to remain calm and composed in stressful driving situations
  • Good observational skills to identify and correct driving errors
  • Strong organizational and time management skills to plan and schedule driving lessons efficiently
  • Ability to provide constructive feedback and motivate students to improve their driving skills
  • Knowledge of vehicle maintenance and troubleshooting to ensure safe and reliable driving experiences

Qualifications & Education

  • Must have held a current driving licence for four out of the last six years
  • Must have no motoring or criminal convictions
  • Must be over 21 years old
  • Must pass a three-part examination to gain registration as an Approved Driving Instructor
  • Instructors for LGVs and PCVs are trained internally or at specialist training establishments
  • NVQs/SVQs in Driving Instruction at Level 3 are available for instructors in all licence categories

Career Path

Defensive Driving Instructor
Driving School Owner/Manager
Fleet Safety Manager
Road Safety Consultant
Driving Examiner
Driving Instructor Trainer
Advanced Driving Instructor
Motorsport Instructor
Precision Driving Specialist
Driving School Supervisor/Coordinator
Driver Education Program Manager
Defensive Driving Course Developer/Designer

Frequently Asked Questions

Do you need qualifications to be a driving instructor?

Yes, while it is not officially required to have any training before taking the ADI tests to become a driving instructor in the UK, it is highly recommended to undergo bespoke training in order to have a better chance of passing the tests.

How long does it take to become a driving instructor?

It typically takes around six to nine months to become a driving instructor in the UK. However, the actual duration may vary depending on individual circumstances and factors.

Is being a driving instructor a good job?

Yes, being a driving instructor can be a good job as it offers job satisfaction and the opportunity to help and teach others.

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