Training to become a driving instructor can be a rewarding and enjoyable career choice. The fact that you are teaching an important life skill to individuals can be of great benefit to them in many ways. It’s therefore no surprise that many make the decision to become a driving instructor, with nearly 40,000 people already teaching driving lessons here in the UK, according to the DVSA (Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency) register.
With so many driving instructors out there, it is vital that instructors ensure that they receive glowing reviews from their students in order to get new business. Many driving instructors are found purely from word of mouth, from friends and family who have recommended them. Some prospective drivers will opt to search for their driving lessons online, so you need to make sure any online reviews reflect a high standard of service in order to make yourself more appealing than other instructors or driving schools in the area.
So, what qualities do you need to be a competent driving instructor? You will definitely need to make a good impression on your students in order for them to recommend you and for your business to be a success. Read on to find out if you have what it takes to become a successful driving instructor.
- Patience
One of the most important attributes you will need is patience. You will be dealing with nervous learners who will require you to stay calm and collected. Students may become overwhelmed by the number of instructions being directed them, so it is imperative that you are communicating in a way that gives the student confidence and reduces any fears they may have.
Some students will be more nervous than others so you will need to adjust accordingly. You must stay positive and encouraging whilst giving constructive criticism in order for them to improve and eventually pass.
- Be Qualified
In order to become a driving instructor, you must first pass a series of tests to ensure you are competent for the job. Driving instructors are usually ADI (Approved Driver Instructor) qualified, which entails passing three separate tests covering: driving theory, driving ability and fitness, and lastly the ability to instruct a student.
On road ‘real’ driving experience and being able meet people on their level are both two essential skills required to be a good driving instructor. If you are intending to offer intensive driving lessons, it is particularly important to have sufficient training and experience and a high level of on road driving skills.
3. Good Communication Skills
Driving lessons typically last between 60 and 120 minutes per lesson. It is important that you have the ability to build a good working relationship with your students in order for them to gain trust in you and feel confident not only in their safety but also in your ability to communicate the information they need to successfully learn to drive.
Having a friendly disposition will immediately put the learner at ease which will make their lessons far more enjoyable.
Sometimes when there is a language barrier you may have to use alternative words e.g. when asking a pupil to “follow the kerb around to the left.”
Providing clear and precise instructions will help you to guide the driver through all the intricacies of learning to drive at the same time increasing their confidence on the road.
Meta: Qualifying as a driving instructor can be a great career move, but what qualities do potential instructors need to successfully teach students how to drive?