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Become a Driving Instructor

with DTMK Driving School

If you are looking for a rewarding career with flexibility, independence, and the chance to make a real difference – becoming a driving instructor could be the perfect move.  At DTMK Driving School, we provide complete driving instructor training, supported by real-world experience, opportunities, and full business support to help you succeed.

 

 

The Path to Qualification: Step-by-Step Support

Our instructor training programme follows the DVSA’s three-part qualification process.  At DTMK, we guide you through each stage with expert tuition, practical training, and full personal support.

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To become a fully qualified driving instructor, you’ll need to pass three official tests with the DVSA (Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency):

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  1. Part 1 – Theory Test

  2. Part 2 – Driving Ability Test

  3. Part 3 – Instructional Ability Test

 

You can choose to train and qualify all at once or build your training around other commitments. Most people apply for a trainee licence, also known as the pink badge, which allows you to teach real learners and earn money while completing the last part of your training. We’ll guide you through each part and help you plan your journey at your own pace.

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What Training Is Required?

After completing your Driving Ability Test, the DVSA requires a minimum of 60 hours of instructional training, which must be delivered by a qualified instructor trainer.

 

This is split into two parts:

  • 40 hours of training before applying for a trainee licence

  • 20 additional hours of training while working on that licence

 

At DTMK, we structure your training to meet both requirements and help you plan the costs in a realistic, transparent, and manageable way.

ORDIT Trainer Delivering Instructor Training

 

Part 1: Theory Test Support

Part 1 – Theory Test

This covers road safety, teaching knowledge, and hazard perception.

  • DTMK support package: £199.00 Includes study materials, one-to-one coaching, hazard perception practice, and ongoing advice

  • DVSA test fee (paid directly): £81.00

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Part 2: Driving Ability Training

Part 2 – Driving Ability Test

You’ll need to show

  • High level of driving skill and awareness

  • Excellent vehicle control and roadcraft

  • Advanced hazard awareness and forward planning

  • A safe and professional driving style

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  • 10 hours of 1-to-1 development training: £500.00 We’ll help you fine-tune your forward planning, hazard awareness, and control to meet the DVSA’s standard

  • DVSA test fee (paid directly): £111.00

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Part 3: Instructional Ability Training

Part 3 – Instructional Ability Test

This is where you demonstrate your ability to teach safe, effective driving lessons. You’ll need either to go straight into the exam after training or apply for a trainee licence so you can gain real experience before the test.  Most people choose to gain experience first.

 

To apply for the pink badge, the DVSA requires:

  • 40 hours of instructional training before applying

  • 20 more hours of training during the 6-month licence period

 

We split the first 40 hours into two structured blocks:

  • 20-hour block (Stage 1): £1,200.00 Covers teaching techniques, lesson planning, risk management, and communication

  • 20-hour block (Stage 2): £1,200.00 Focuses on lesson delivery, real pupil scenarios, and preparing for the Part 3 exam

  • DVSA test fee (paid directly): £111.00

  • DVSA trainee licence fee (paid directly): £140.00

 

Optional: 

ADI Standards Check Training

3 Hours – £225.00*

Already a qualified instructor or approaching your Standards Check?  We offer targeted 3-hour refresher training sessions to help you stay sharp and confident – available for just £225.

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Start Earning as a PDI with DTMK

Once you’ve passed Part 2 and completed most of your instructional training, you can apply for a trainee licence (pink badge) and start teaching real pupils as a self-employed PDI (under the DTMK franchise).  This allows you to work as a PDI (Potential Driving Instructor) – someone who is still completing training but authorised by the DVSA to give paid driving lessons.
 

 As a PDI, you’ll:

  • Earn money while completing your Part 3

  • Gain real-world teaching experience

  • Get full support with pupils, scheduling, and lesson planning
     

This is a great way to build experience and confidence before taking your final exam.

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What Happens After You Get the Pink (PDI) Badge?

Once you've completed the first 40 hours and passed Part 2, you can apply for the trainee licence (PDI badge). This lets you begin teaching real learners while completing your final stage of training. You’ll now need to complete the final 20 hours of instructional training. These hours are required by the DVSA and must be completed before you sit your Part 3 test.

 

This final block of training is not charged upfront. You will spread these sessions across your working weeks during the six-month licence period, which keeps things manageable as you earn and build experience.

 

We’ll create a plan that fits around your lessons so your final training can take place in real world settings, with feedback, support, and plenty of time to reflect.

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  • Final 20 hours (during PDI licence): £1,200.00 (spread across your training period)

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Award in Education and Training Lesson

No Car? No Problem.

We’ve partnered with a trusted dual-control leasing provider who can supply you with a fully insured tuition vehicle.  Even if you have bad credit, we can help you get started with minimal hassle.

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The Part 3 Test

The ADI Part 3 test is your final assessment. You’ll deliver a real 40-minute lesson to a real pupil, while a DVSA examiner observes from the back seat. You’ll be assessed against 17 competencies, including:

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  • Lesson planning

  • Risk management

  • Teaching and learning strategies

 

With our support, you’ll have already delivered real lessons and built confidence with a variety of learners.

 

We’ll help you prepare fully, with practice, feedback, and targeted support.

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Becoming a Fully Qualified ADI

Once you pass Part 3, you can register as an Approved Driving Instructor (ADI) and start working independently or within a driving school.

 

  • DVSA registration fee: £300.00 (valid for four years)

 

At DTMK, many trainees stay with us as full ADI franchisees. You’ll continue to have access to learners, systems, resources, and professional development.

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​​​Why Choose DTMK?

  • Based in Milton Keynes and covering all surrounding postcodes

  • Trusted local brand with a growing reputation

  • Supportive team and mentoring throughout your training

  • Affordable franchise opportunities once you are ready to work

  • 100% support from enrolment to qualification and beyond

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Support Beyond Qualification At DTMK, we see your qualification as the beginning of a longer journey.

 

Once you become a qualified ADI, we can help you grow your career further. You might decide to:

 

  • Complete the Level 3 Award in Education and Training (AET)

  • Gain the Level 3 Certificate in Assessing Vocational Achievement (CAVA)

  • Train as a fleet or advanced driving instructor

  • Join our training services team to deliver first aid or road safety education in the community

 

Whatever your goals, we’re here to support your development and help you shape a career that fits your future.

 

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Let’s Talk

We’re happy to explain anything in more detail. There’s no pressure and no sales pitch – just an honest conversation about what’s involved and whether this path is right for you. We can arrange a quick phone call, a coffee somewhere local, or simply send you the full information by email.

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*Prices Correct April 2025

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