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Your Questions Answered


How long will it take to qualify?

To become an ADI, you have to pass three exams, one written and two practical. You have a two year time period starting from the date you pass the theory exam. The time taken will depend on the candidates ability and personal circumstances. Obviously there are examination timetables to be aware of, although the course can be completed on average between four to eight months.

Can I pass the Theory test without the training course?

Whilst it may be possible to pass the test, initially saving money, it is our experience that candidates do so with a lack of understanding that therefore hinders progression, costing more time and money. Alan's can supply all the recommended reading materials and Hazard Perception CD-Roms or DVDs.

Can I make mistakes on any of the tests?

Yes. On part one the overall pass mark is 85%, on part two a maximum of 6 driving faults are permitted and with the instructional exam it is graded between 1 through 6, with grades of three and below being sub-standard.

Will I have to do any other tests?

Yes. Having qualified, you will throughout your 4 year registration have whats called a 'check test'. The frequency of the check test depends on your standard of instruction.

How much will the training cost?

The cost will depend on the candidates ability and the DSA exam fees at the time of booking the tests. As this will be reflected in the trainees ability further details can be obtained direct from our office.

Telephone 0800 037 39 67

The course fees can be financed on a pay as you go basis, payable per lesson or through credit terms. 

Will there be additional costs?

Should you fail any part of the exam, you will of course have to pay for further tuition if required. The one exception being part one, then any trainee requiring further guidance, will be invited to train as often or little as necessary without further charge. The DSA examination fees, Trainee  and Approved Driving Instructor  Licences must be paid for by the candidate. 

Can I teach before I qualify?

Yes. Having passed your part two, you have the option of applying for a trainee licence. This will allow you to instruct, thus gaining experience before taking the part 3 exam. Conditions apply, which include completing 40 hours of instructional training, which is of an acceptable standard before the issue of the licence with a further 20 hours required when the licence becomes valid or whilst the trainee licence is being used, 20% of your paid lessons must be supervised by an ADI.

These are the minimum conditions set out by the DSA, however, each individual will be guided by the trainers to reach Alan's Driving Shool's high standards.

Will I be guaranteed a job?

Although we will not guarantee you a placement with Alan's Driving School , every endeavour will be made to take on our trainees. Over 70% of our successful trainees now work with the school. In any event we would give assistance in gaining a position with an alternative driving school.

What kind of living can I expect?

This will depend on your own requirements, however, simply multiply the price of an average lesson by the number of hours you work and you can expect to earn in excess of £25,000 per year, based on a 40 hour working week. Do not forget to allow for petrol, insurances and franchise fees; these along with training costs are allowable against income tax.

What qualifications will I obtain?

You will become a Driving Standards Agency Approved Driving Instructor (car), responsible for teaching safe driving for life.

Alan's believes and promotes continuing professional development and so encourages its instructors to strive for further qualifications in teaching, advanced driving as examples.

Is there anything more I need to know?

If you are positive that this is the direction you wish to head in, or if you have further questions that you feel the need to ask or should ask so please feel free to contact us using the contact form or telephoning