The route at a glance
Can you become a driving instructor?
To start, you must:
- be at least 21 years old
- have held a full UK car driving licence for at least 3 years
- not have been disqualified from driving in the last 4 years
- pass a criminal record check
You apply to start the process on GOV.UK, then book Part 1.
The three tests
| Part 1 | Theory test: 100 multiple-choice questions in 90 minutes, plus hazard perception. £81. |
|---|---|
| Part 2 | Driving ability: about an hour of driving to a high standard, with no more than 6 driving faults. £111. |
| Part 3 | Instructional ability: you give a lesson to a real pupil while an examiner watches. £111. |
You have 2 years from passing Part 1 to pass Parts 2 and 3. You get three attempts at Part 2 and three at Part 3.
The trainee licence
Once you've passed Part 2 and completed the required training with a qualified instructor, you can apply for a trainee driving instructor licence (£140). It lets you give paid lessons for up to 6 months while you get ready for Part 3. Many trainees use it to build experience, but it's optional.
Registering as an ADI
After passing Part 3, you join the ADI register and get your green badge. It costs £300 and lasts 4 years. Apply within 12 months of passing Part 3, or you'll have to pass all three tests again. Once you're qualified, the DVSA will also check your teaching with a regular standards check.
What it costs
| Part 1 | £81 |
|---|---|
| Part 2 | £111 |
| Part 3 | £111 |
| Trainee licence (optional) | £140 |
| ADI registration | £300 for 4 years |
| DVSA fees total | £603, or £743 with a trainee licence |
Training courses are extra and vary widely, so compare what's included before you sign up. Fees checked November 2026; always confirm on GOV.UK before booking.
Built for new driving instructors
DriveBox Connect gives you a diary, card payments, pupil progress and new pupils by postcode from day one. DriveBox checks every ADI and PDI badge, and LearnLab includes PDI theory test practice. Free until March 2027.
Questions
How long does it take to become a driving instructor?
Many people qualify in 6 to 12 months. You must pass all three parts within 2 years of passing Part 1.
How much does it cost to become a driving instructor?
The DVSA fees are £81 for Part 1, £111 for Part 2, £111 for Part 3 and £300 to register as an ADI. A trainee licence costs £140 if you get one. Training courses are on top and vary a lot.
What are the requirements to become a driving instructor?
You must be at least 21, have held a full UK car licence for at least 3 years, not have been disqualified from driving in the last 4 years, and pass a criminal record check.
Can I teach for money before I qualify?
Only with a trainee driving instructor licence, which you can apply for after passing Part 2. It lets you give paid lessons while you prepare for Part 3.
How many attempts do I get at Part 2 and Part 3?
Three attempts at each. If you fail the third attempt, you have to start again from Part 1.