Choosing your driving mentor

The Approved vs. Potential Instructor

When you begin your search, you'll likely come across two main types of instructors:

• Approved Driving Instructor (ADI): An ADI is a fully qualified professional who has passed a rigorous three-part examination process set by the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA). They are required to display a green octagonal badge in their windscreen. This badge is a sign that they have met the high standards required to teach, and they undergo regular "standards checks" to ensure they maintain that quality.
• Potential Driving Instructor (PDI): A PDI is an instructor who is still in training. They have passed the first two parts of the ADI qualification but are working towards passing the final, Part 3 test, which assesses their ability to teach. PDIs are allowed to give paid lessons under a trainee licence and must display a pink triangular badge. They are often under the supervision of a driving school or a fully qualified ADI. While they are gaining valuable experience, an ADI generally offers the assurance of having completed the full qualification process.

The Grading System: A and B Grades

The DVSA also grades all ADIs based on their standards check, a test that evaluates their teaching ability. The two possible passing grades are:

• Grade A: This is the highest grade an ADI can achieve, indicating a very high standard of instruction. An instructor with this grade has demonstrated exceptional teaching ability.
• Grade B: This grade shows that the instructor is competent and meets the required standard to be an ADI. The vast majority of ADIs hold a B grade, and they are excellent, capable teachers.

While a Grade A instructor is undoubtedly impressive, a Grade B instructor is also a highly qualified professional. Both are more than capable of helping you pass your test and become a safe driver. It's more important to find someone whose teaching style and personality you feel comfortable with.

Beyond the Standard: Fleet and Specialisations

Some instructors have qualifications that go beyond the standard ADI certification, which can be particularly beneficial for specific learners. A Fleet Registered instructor, for example, is an ADI who is also qualified to provide professional training to full licence holders, often for businesses with a fleet of vehicles. This expertise in advanced driving and driver development can be a great asset.

Furthermore, some instructors specialise in teaching learners with special educational needs or disabilities. They have experience and often additional training to tailor their teaching methods to suit different learning styles and abilities. This can be crucial for building confidence and ensuring a safe and effective learning experience.

If you have any learning difficulties, such as dyslexia, dyspraxia, or anxiety, it is incredibly important to share these with your instructor. They can't help you with what they don't know. A good instructor will be empathetic and adaptable, adjusting their communication and lesson structure to your needs, which can make all the difference in your progress and comfort behind the wheel.

The Trainer's Trainer: Finding the Right Path for a Career in Driving

If you're considering a career as a driving instructor, the choices you make for your own training are just as vital. Just as a learner driver benefits from a great instructor, a trainee instructor needs a great trainer to prepare them for their new career.

The Importance of ORDIT

When looking for a driving instructor trainer, the key credential to look for is ORDIT (Official Register of Driving Instructor Training) registration. This is a voluntary scheme run by the DVSA. An ORDIT-registered trainer has been assessed and approved by the DVSA to provide high-quality training. Choosing an ORDIT trainer offers peace of mind that you are receiving instruction that meets national standards.

ORDIT trainers are also graded, with Grade A being the highest and most desirable. Similar to ADIs, these grades are a mark of quality and a reflection of the trainer's ability to deliver effective instruction.

The Journey of the Trainee Instructor

The needs of a trainee instructor change as they progress through their training. Initially, a trainee might need a trainer who can clearly explain the principles of driving instruction and the theory behind it. As they progress to the practical aspects of their training, the focus shifts to hands-on experience and role-playing, where the trainer simulates the role of a learner driver. A good trainer will be able to adapt their approach to meet these changing needs, offering support and guidance at every stage of the journey.

Ultimately, whether you are a learner driver or a future instructor, taking the time to research and choose the right mentor is an investment in your safety, skills, and success. The right person can make the difference between a stressful ordeal and an enjoyable, empowering experience that sets you up for a lifetime on the road.