If you’re a new learner driver and want to learn how to drive, then where do you start? How do you choose driving instructors for your driving lessons, and what are the costs that are associated?

When you choose a driving instructor with a good reputation, who is friendly and helpful, and you get along, then it will make the whole driving process much simpler.

A good driving instructor will help you to be safe on the road, but give you the confidence that you need to pass and go out as a driver on your own.

If you want to know more about getting started with driving lessons and choosing driving instructors, then read on. 

Get recommendations

One of the best ways to choose a driving instructor, as there are a number of local ones out there, is to go by recommendations.

If you have neighbours that all loved their instructor and all three children passed for the first time, for example, then that is definitely a glowing recommendation. Equally, if you ask around, local friends and family, they could also share with you those driving instructors that they would avoid, so it is worth the conversation.

Don’t just go for the cheapest

Although price is definitely a factor to consider when it comes to choosing a driving instructor, you shouldn’t just jump at the lowest price you find.

The reason for this is that all driving instructors will have costs before they make a profit. If they charge less than the average, which is currently around £26-£27 per one hour lesson, then you need to consider what costs they are cutting.

Are they using budget tyres or are they not even fully qualified? Definitely something to consider.

Remember that many instructors offer a discount if you book a block of lessons, but this might be worth doing after a lesson or two, once you have decided that this instructor is definitely for you. 

Driving instructor qualifications

If you are looking for driving instructors for your driving lessons, then you need to make sure that they are a DSA-approved Potential Driving Instructor (PDI) or an Approved Driving Instructor (ADI).

If they have neither of these qualifications and are charging for lessons, then you need to avoid it as this is illegal. If necessary, ask for ID and proof of these qualifications.

Driving instructors should display their qualification proof in their car window, which is either a DSA PDI green hexagon badge or a pink DSA ADI triangle badge. 

Important questions to ask driving instructors

When you’re thinking about who to choose as your driving instructor, then here are some important questions that can help you decide, as well as get a general feel for the instructor.

• How long do your students take to pass their test, on average?
• How many of your students passed the first time?
• How long have you been a driving instructor?
• What lesson length would you advise to be best?
• How flexible are you with bookings and cancellations?

By looking out for the right kind of qualifications and experience for a driving instructor, it can give you an idea of if they will be right for you.

To book in for a first lesson with one of our trusted and experienced instructors, get in contact with us today.