Choosing the right driving instructor is one of the most important steps in your journey to becoming a safe, confident driver. A good instructor can tailor lessons to your learning style, help you understand test expectations, and build your driving skills efficiently.
✅ What to Look for in a Driving Instructor
Here are key qualities and credentials you should check when selecting an instructor:
| Requirement | Why It Matters | What to Ask or Check |
|---|---|---|
| Approved Driving Instructor (ADI) Certification | Only ADIs or licensed trainees are permitted by law to deliver paid driving lessons. Ensures you learn correct techniques aligned with DVSA standards. | Ask for their ADI number. You can verify online. |
| Proper Vehicle & Insurance | A well-maintained, insured vehicle with dual controls keeps you safer and helps learning become less stressful. | Check the car is clean, has dual controls, service history. |
| Good Reputation & Referrals | Past learners’ feedback often reveals how patient the instructor is, how well they adapt to nerves, etc. | Ask friends/family, read online reviews. |
| Knowledge of National Standard for Driver and Rider Training | Ensures that training follows DVSA’s framework — helping you meet test objectives, not just practising for the test but learning for life. | Ask instructor to explain part of their lesson plan in terms of what skills they will cover. |
| Clear Pricing & Policies | You should know how much lessons cost, what’s included (fuel, materials), cancellation terms. | Request a fee schedule in writing; ask upfront about additional charges. |
🧠 Instructor Tips from Me
- Trial Lesson: Book one lesson first to see if you feel comfortable. You’re paying attention not just to what you learn, but how you learn.
- Ask How They Teach: Some instructors are very structured (e.g. checklist-based), others more conversational. Choose what fits your learning style.
- Consider Past pupils’ pass rate or comfort: Not always published, but hearing from someone who learned with them gives you a sense of how well learners progress.
⚠️ Common Mistakes Learners Make in Choosing an Instructor
| Mistake | Why It Causes Problems | How to Avoid |
|---|---|---|
| Choosing the cheapest only | May have outdated teaching methods, poor car condition, or less experience — end up needing more lessons. | Balance cost with reviews, credentials, and what they’re offering. |
| Going with convenience rather than quality | Verify via the ADI register, check the ADI number, and ask for documentation. | Check availability, teaching style, and car type. |
| Not verifying credentials | Some claim to be instructors but aren’t registered/licensed. | Verify via the ADI register, check the ADI number, ask for documentation. |
🛠️ Checklist: Before Saying “Yes”
- Instructor is an ADI or licensed trainee
- Vehicle is insured & dual controls present
- Instructor uses a DVSA-aligned training standard
- Transparent pricing (lesson cost, cancellation policy, extras)
- Good feedback or references
📚 Related Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I switch instructors if I don’t feel comfortable?
A: Yes. It’s better to switch early than to stay unhappy. A good instructor will understand, and many others are available locally.
Q: Is automatic or manual better for a beginner?
A: Depends on your preference, goals, and budget. Automatic is simpler to learn initially; manual gives you more control and is required for driving a manual vehicle later.
Q: How many hours of lessons do most people need?
A: It varies widely depending on how often you practise, how nervous you are, and how quickly you pick up skills. Many learners need more hours than they expect — choosing a good instructor can reduce wasted time.
🔎 Attribution & Official Advice
Some information here is informed by DVSA guidance, such as the National Standard for Driver and Rider Training. FQ Driving Academy is not affiliated with the DVSA. For official information on instructor registration and approved driving instructors, visit GOV.UK – Find a Driving Instructor.
