Could I be a driving Instructor?

Each year thousands of people start out along the road to becoming an Approved Driving Instructor (ADI). This means for most the start of a new career, or in some cases a second.

To be able to become a driving instructor you must:
•    Hold a full British or Northern Ireland unrestricted car driving licence.
•    Have held your full licence for 4 out of the last six years prior to entering the register after qualifying.
•    Not have been disqualified from driving at any time within the 4 years prior to being entered on to the register.
•    Be a fit and proper person to have your name entered on the register.
•    Pass the register qualifying exam.

If you do not meet the above conditions you cannot proceed with any course. I meet all the criteria and could take one of these courses and train to become a driving instructor, I know a few people who have chosen this as their new career after the recession.

Being a driving instructor is hard work, it’s stressful and in some cases dangerous! Characteristics of a driving instructor would have to include patience, ability to remain calm and be able to teach the same techniques to people in different ways.

Now, I’m not the most patient person in the world, I don’t like repeating myself and I would have trouble to remain calm under stressed situations. But, I believe (like everyone else) that I am a good driver and learnt a lot in my 10 years of driving.

I’ve had my fair share of accidents, fines, penalty points and even a ban but, I have learnt from it all. I know what causes an accident and how to best avoid it. I would like to educate people on how to be a safe driver but, don’t think I will be a good driving instructor best leave that to people who are naturally good at teaching.