Learning to drive is no easy feat but finding the right driving instructor can make all the difference. Making sure you’re comfortable behind the wheel is the first step towards getting you to pass your driving test – and choosing an instructor who will make you feel at ease is key.
At the Car Loan Warehouse, we’re bringing you a few tips on how to choose the best driving instructors – so you can be behind the wheel of your own car as soon as possible.
Checking Qualifications
It’s always important to check your driving instructor’s qualifications before getting behind the wheel. All driving instructors must be registered with the Driving Standards Agency (DSA), with fully Approved Driving Instructors (ADI) displaying a green badge. You can also take lessons from a Potential Driving Instructors (PDI), who should show a pink badge – which basically means they aren’t yet fully qualified, but can still teach learner drivers.
Driving instructors also undergo ongoing assessments every few years, so it’s a good idea to check when they were last assessed and what instruction grade they received.
Do Your Research
Just because a driving instructor is qualified, it doesn’t necessarily mean they’ll be the right type of instructor for you – so do some research before making a final decision. Ask friends and family for recommendations or look on websites like Which? Local to find recommended driving instructors in your area. Going with a recommended driving instructor will ensure you’re getting the most from your lessons and help you feel more confident behind the wheel.
The Car
With a good instructor you should be able to learn in any type of car, so don’t be taken in by driving instructors with an overly flashy set of wheels. Before you block book your lessons, check the car is fitted with dual-control pedals on the passenger side – giving the instructor control of the car, as well as you.
Don’t Be Fooled By Pass Rates
Many driving schools and instructors will advertise their pass rates, but they can be easily manipulated – so don’t rely on them alone. Lots of instructors specialise in working with nervous drivers, which often means they take longer to get their clients to pass their test.
Statistically, female driving instructors tend to have lower pass rates and women have lower pass rates than men – but this isn’t necessarily a true reflection of the driving instructor’s teaching ability.
Is the Price Right?
As with pass rates, don’t be lured in by discount prices and offers. The average price for an hour lesson in the UK is £19-25. If it’s any lower than that, you need to ask yourself why. Similarly, don’t stump up lots of cash up front with block sessions right away. Have a few individual lessons first to check you’re happy with the car and instructor before you commit to any advance payments.
If you’re keen to pass your test and get your hands on your first new car, then the Car Loan Warehouse has plenty of flexible finance options to get you started. Apply now for car finance or check out our car finance calculator for a quick quote today.
