Frequently Asked Questions

Where is my training carried out? We offer a number of driving instructor training choices but most of our courses include free pickup from any UK mainland destination for your training - meaning we will pick you up from home on a one to one basis and work in YOUR AREA and around YOUR LOCAL test centres. We have trainers based all over the UK giving us a true national coverage.  Alternatively you can join our driving instructor training courses based at our Lancashire training centre which offer extremely good value for money.

You say that I can get me training fees back once qualified - what’s the catch? There really isn’t one!  For a limited time we are offering you the chance to get a full refund of your training fees once you are qualified if you decide to join us as a franchised instructor.  Think of it as our way of saying thank you for your continued loyalty.  Our franchise is one of the most comprehensive we can find and it is offered at a really great monthly fee BUT if you train now we will give your franchise FREE OF CHARGE until you have had the equivalent of your training fees back!  There are a few terms and conditions so if you want to find out more just give our friendly team a call on 0800 567 7669.

I can’t afford the full amount now - can you help? Of course!  Whilst the majority of our customers pay for their course when they enroll, we fully understand that not everyone is fortunate enough to be able to do this.  We are delighted to offer a range of finance plans including “train now, pay later” (subject to acceptance). We also offer an in house payment plan with no credit checks and guaranteed acceptance which means that even if you are not eligible for standard credit we can still help you to train for a new career.

Are there any grants available to help with my training? Depending on the area that you live and your personal circumstances it is sometimes possible to get assistance in funding your course by means of grants and other funding.  We will give you as much advice as we can on finding funding, feel free to call us on 0800 567 7669 for an informal chat to discuss your circumstances.

How good is the standard of training that I will receive? Obviously whoever you ask will claim to be the best. All instructor trainers at Key are ADI’s with a high grade. We are approved at the highest level by ORDIT to give training for all three parts of the qualifying examination and have undertaken and passed examinations in driving instructor training. Our business and trainers are qualified by ORDIT to cover all aspects of the ADI qualifying exams as well as ongoing CPD and retraining.

All of our senior trainers have also passed the strict DSA Cardington Special test at the DSA training centre in Bedfordshire and have accomplished the highly sought after “Grade A” as well as having taken specialists with Staffs Police. We have been training instructors for a number of years with an excellent success rate and we are certain that the training that we give is of the highest possible standard. We also provide all our trainers with continued professional development.

What qualifications do I need in order to train to be an ADI? The simple answer is none. You must have held a full UK driving licence for at least 3.5 years and this should be clean (although some minor motoring offences may be accepted - call for advice).

I have a criminal conviction, will this affect my application? To become a driving instructor you must be a “fit & proper person” and will be subject to a criminal records check.  The DSA will assess each application on an individual basis.  For more information please call us on 0800 567 7669.

How long does becoming a driving instructor take? This is dependant on a number of things - the first being the DSA waiting times for tests in your area, the second being your availability for training, and the third being whether you pass each part of the qualifying process 1st time. We have known people qualify in as little as 8 weeks once their application to the DSA to train has been accepted. This can take longer subject to your availability for training and the waiting list time for your tests. Learn more about our Driving Instructor Courses.

What do the three tests comprise of? The first is a Theory test and Hazard Perception test. Put briefly you will have to answer a series of multiple choice questions and then after this watch a series of short video clips from inside a car and click the mouse whenever you see a developing hazard. Next comes your test of driving ability. For this we will give you a comprehensive tailored training package leading up to the test. You will need to drive to a very high standard for about an hour and carry out a series of reversing exercises. The third and final test is your ability to instruct. During this test the examiner will play the part of two different pupils and ask you to teach two set subjects. Whilst this may all sound daunting it is relatively straightforward with the right amount of training and preparation.

Can I train around my current job? Absolutely!  Our courses are flexible and we can deliver your training on weekdays, weekends, and in some cases evenings.  Call us to discuss your individual requirements.

What hours will I have to work as a driving instructor? This is a very flexible career and you really can choose when you work.  Some of our instructors choose to work full time, some part time.  Some start late and finish early, some split their day.  The choice is yours and we will work with you to ensure you work the hours that suit you.

Has your question not been answered here? Contact us to have any questions about becoming a driving instructor answered by a Driving Standards Agency Approved Driving Instructor!

How can we help?

If you are considering training for a new career as a driving instructor please give us a ring, we would be delighted to offer any help and advice you need. 0800 567 7669.

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