How to choose the right driving instructor.
Make sure any driving instructor you choose is approved by the Driving Standards Agency (DSA). Only an Approved Driving Instructor (ADI) can charge a payment for driving lessons. Do not give payment to anyone classing themselves as a driving instructor who is not DSA approved as this is illegal.
Always shop around and compare at least two or three driving schools in your area. Don’t always go by the cheapest driving lesson prices, think about some of the other factors that will make for a more better lesson experience and hopefully a higher chance of a pass. Things to think about when choosing your driving school are:
. What are the lesson prices, do they offer discounts for block bookings?
. How many pupils do they teach in every driving lesson? Do you really want another pupil taking up half your lesson or would you prefer a one-to-one course.
. How long have they been teaching? What is their pass rate like?
. What happens if you need to cancel a lesson, what are their policies on this?
. Can the driving school provide the correct vehicle for your needs? E.g. If you plan to drive automatic gearbox cars, can they provide a vehicle to suit your lessons? How old are the vehicles they use? Can you adjust the driver’s seat to suit your build and height? Do the training vehicles have dual controls?
Also check with your driving school if they provide any other training aids such as books or computer discs to help you with your theory test.
Some driving instructors smoke, if you don’t smoke the last thing you want is to be stuck in a smoky vehicle whilst taking your driving lessons so check this out before you book.
Make sure your driving instructor can speak in your native language in a clear and precise manner.
Check with your driving school if they offer any ‘After Test’ courses such as ‘Pass Plus’. This is a great way to enhance your safety skills on the road as well as hugely reduce your first insurance costs!
