We need you !
Join a Driving School That’s Going Places
Go Drive Academy is growing fast—and we’re looking for PDI and ADI instructors who want to grow with us. If you’re calm, practical, and passionate about helping learners succeed, we’d love to hear from you.
We offer high-quality, real-world instruction and a supportive team culture that values professionalism, reliability, and community impact.
Sound like a fit? Get in touch today.
Want to be a driving instructor?
If you're calm, reliable, and enjoy working with people, it could be a great fit. You'll have the flexibility to set your own hours, steady demand for your skills, and the chance to help learners grow in confidence and independence.
At Go Drive, we welcome instructors who value clear communication, practical teaching, Whether you're starting fresh or changing careers, we’ll here to help you through the steps to become DVSA approved and support you as you build your future.
Step one
To start your journey toward becoming a DVSA approved driving instructor (ADI), you must meet the following criteria:
Age: You must be at least 21 years old at the time of application.
Driving Experience: You need to have held a full UK license for at least 3 years.
Penalty Points: You must have no more than 6 penalty points on your licence. Serious motoring convictions may disqualify you.
Legal Status: You must be considered a ‘fit and proper person’ by the DVSA. This includes your criminal record, driving history, and general conduct.
DBS Check: You’ll need to complete a new Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check, even if you’ve had one recently. This is required before you can begin your application.
Residency: You must be legally allowed to live and work in the UK.
You can the link below to see if you’re eligible to become a driving instructor.
Step 2
Apply to Become an ADI Start your application on the official GOV.UK site. You’ll need to agree to the responsibilities in the ADI register guide and submit your DBS check.
Step 3
Find a Trainer & Prepare.
Now’s the time to begin preparing for the first of three ADI tests on your journey to becoming a qualified driving instructor and Go Drive Academy is here to guide you every step of the way.
While formal training isn’t mandatory before attempting the tests, the reality is that becoming a driving instructor is a demanding and highly skilled profession. Trying to navigate the process alone can be overwhelming, especially when balancing work, family, and other commitments. We understand we have stood exactly where you are now.
Step 4
Part 1: Theory Test - This made up of two tests:
Theory Test – 90 minutes covering the Highway Code, road safety, driving techniques, first aid questions, and teaching theory. You’ll need at least 85% to pass out of 100 questions.
Hazard Perception – 14 video clips testing your ability to spot developing hazards. One clip has two hazards. You’ll need 57 out of 75 points to pass.
Part 2: Driving Ability Test – Advanced driving test including manoeuvres and independent driving
This test checks your practical driving skills and includes:
An eyesight check, ‘Show me, tell me’ vehicle safety questions, General driving ability, Manoeuvres, Independent driving
To pass, you must:
Have no more than 6 driving faults
Have no serious or dangerous faults
After the test, the examiner will explain any faults. You can retake the test if needed, but you only get 3 attempts. If you fail all three, you’ll need to wait 2 years from the date you passed Part 1 before trying again.
How Go Drive Academy Helps You Prepare for ADI Part 2
The ADI Part 2 test assesses your driving ability to a very high standard. It’s not just about being a safe driver it’s about demonstrating precision, control, and awareness under pressure. That’s why we offer:
Personalised Driving Assessments Our expert trainers will evaluate your current driving skills and identify areas for improvement. Whether it’s mastering manoeuvres, refining observation techniques, or building confidence on complex road types, we tailor feedback to your needs.
One-to-One Coaching Sessions Receive focused, in-car training with a qualified instructor who understands the ADI test criteria inside out. These sessions are designed to sharpen your technique and boost your readiness.
Mock ADI Part 2 Tests Simulate the real test environment with a mock assessment. This helps you get familiar with the format, manage nerves, and understand what examiners are looking for.
Flexible Scheduling We work around your availability, offering evening and weekend sessions to fit your lifestyle.
Step 5
Trainee licence ? Learn and Earn ?
A trainee driving instructor licence (PDI) allows you to deliver paid driving lessons to real pupils before taking your ADI Part 3 test. It’s designed to help you:
- Gain hands-on experience instructing learners
- Build your teaching skills in preparation for the ADI Part 3 test
- Start earning to cover costs like insurance, fuel, and vehicle maintenance
The licence is valid for 6 months, giving you a valuable window to refine your skills and transition into a full-time instructor role.
To be eligible for a trainee licence, you must:
- Have passed your ADI Part 1 test within the last 2 years
- Have passed the ADI Part 2 test
- Have completed at least 40 hours of training in driving instruction with a qualified ADI (including 10 hours in-car), recorded on the ADI 21T declaration form
- Be eligible to take the ADI Part 3 test
Trainee Licence: Your Two Pathways
When applying for a trainee driving instructor licence, you must choose one of the following two options. Once selected, your choice is final you cannot switch later.
Option 1: Supervised Lessons
Under this option, your sponsoring ADI must supervise 20% of all lessons you deliver during your trainee licence period.
What you need to do:
Keep a detailed record of:
Total hours of lessons you give
Total hours of supervision received
Use the ADI 21S supervision record form, signed by both you and your ADI
Submit the completed form to the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) when your licence expires
Option2 : Extra Training
This route requires you to complete at least 20 hours of additional training based on the ADI training programme.
Key requirements:
Finish the training within 3 months of receiving your trainee licence
Complete it before booking your ADI Part 3 test
Ensure at least 25% of the training is practical, in-car instruction
Record your progress using the Instructor Training Declaration Form
Part 6
Take the ADI Part 3 Test and Qualify as an Approved Driving Instructor
The ADI Part 3 is the final step in your journey to becoming a fully qualified driving instructor. This test assesses your instructional ability when delivering a 40 mins lessons
A DVSA examiner will observe you delivering a client-centred driving lesson to a real pupil. They’ll evaluate how effectively you tailor your teaching to the learner’s needs, manage risk, and encourage safe driving habits.
Pass this stage and you can now register as an Approved Driving Instructor.
Still Unsure Need Help?
If you need any support, just reach out we’re always happy to help. Whether you’re looking for guidance or want a tailored package to suit your goals, we’ll work with you to make your journey as smooth and successful as possible.