While training to become an approved driving instructor (ADI), there’s an option to become a trainee instructor. This means that – while not fully qualified – you’ll still be able to take out pupils, and charge for lessons. This is a great way of gaining invaluable tuition experience, and preparing you for the ADI part 3 instructional ability test.
But while operating with a trainee licence, are you allowed to advertise your services? We get asked this question a lot, as there seems to be some confusion over the regulations. Read on to find out everything you need to know.
What are the rules for trainee driving instructors?
While it’s not mandatory, many of those training to become a driving instructor will choose to become trainee instructors themselves via the Driver & Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) Trainee Instructor Licence Scheme. If you apply for the scheme, you’ll be issued with a trainee licence for 6 months, and can teach for reward. In other words, you’ll be paid for lessons you give. Win-win.
The complete set of rules for trainee instructors are laid out in The Motor Cars (Driving Instruction) Regulations 20051. These include how to apply for a trainee licence, what additional training needs to take place, and even the exact placement of the pink triangular sticker which identifies you as a licenced trainee driving instructor.
According to GOV.UK, you can use your trainee licence provided you:
- Are a ‘fit and proper’ person
- Get the required amount of supervision or additional training during the period your licence is still valid
Where do I give lessons?
The GOV.UK rules are clear on this point:
"Your trainee licence shows the name and address of your training establishment. You can only give instruction from there, so you cannot work independently, such as by setting up your own school."
In other words, the driving school where you train is also where your pupils should be registered. So while you’re now able to give paid lessons, you’re not really going it alone. The opportunity to set up your own driving instruction business only comes when you’re a fully qualified ADI.
Can I advertise for pupils?
When you advertise for pupils the DVSA states that you must not make it seem like you're a fully qualified driving instructor.
Their website says that you must:
- Describe yourself as a 'trainee driving instructor' - do not use the term 'potential driving instructor' or 'PDI', as these are not widely understood by the public
- Say which training establishment you work at
- Only give your training establishment's contact details - you cannot give your personal contact details
Likewise, they state that your training establishment must follow the same rules when they advertise on your behalf. Your status as a trainee should be clear, so that any pupils are fully informed.
Find out more about how to become a driving instructor here.
1 The Motor Cars (Driving Instruction) Regulations 2005https://www.legislation.gov.uk/uksi/2005/1902/contents/made