05/08/2026
Learning to drive or considering starting?
As a fully qualified Approved Driving Instructor this year alone I’ve helped learners who have experienced both illegal instructors and what can only be described as poorly advised and unorganised trainee instructors.
As per the picture only an approved driving instructor (ADI) or a trainee instructor (PDI) can charge for lessons, both of switch should display their badge at all times or at least be able to present it when asked. If the person you are having lessons with cannot do this then it is illegal for them to charge for lessons and should be reported to the DVSA immediately!
Trainee instructors (PDI) can charge for lessons as they have passed 2 of their 3 exams which demonstrate they have the knowledge and skill, however the 3rd exam still needs to be passed which is their teaching exam, most take the option of a pink badge meaning they can learn and prepare for their 3rd exam whilst teaching. It’s been known that some don’t want you to know they’re a trainee and choose not to display their badge, please challenge them if theirs isn’t displayed as they could teaching illegally!
There seems to be quite a big influx of trainee instructors in the area from the bigger national schools so it’s always worth checking who you are with whether they are an ADI or PDI.
I want to make it clear there’s nothing wrong with having lessons with a trainee, some go about things the right way and go on to be really good instructors, unfortunately some don’t either way it’s your money and have a right to know who is teaching you.
Learning to drive safely isn’t always about finding the cheapest instructor, like most things you get what you pay for!
