How to Be Driving Instructor - Job Description, Skills, and Interview Questions

Aug 9, 2021 / 5 Minutes Read / By Albert

How to Become

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The lack of qualified driving instructors can lead to a number of consequences, including an increase in the number of traffic accidents on the roads. When there are not enough experienced instructors to educate new drivers in the basics of driving safety, their knowledge and skills can be inadequate, leading to more risky behavior and a greater likelihood of getting into an accident. This can result in a higher number of fatalities, injuries, and property damage due to collisions. It is important to ensure that there are enough driving instructors available to ensure that new drivers are adequately trained in the necessary safety protocols, so that they can be better prepared for the challenges of being on the roads.

Steps How to Become

Complete a Driving Instructor Training Course. You must complete a certified driving instructor training course before you can become a driving instructor. These courses can be found at accredited driving schools and can range in duration from several weeks to several months. You will learn the basics of teaching drivers and how to assess them for their driving ability.
Apply for a Driving Instructor Licence. After completing the training course, you must apply for a driving instructor licence from your state or local licensing authority. The application process may include passing a written exam and completing a fingerprinting process.
Get Insured. You must obtain appropriate liability insurance to protect yourself and your students in case of an accident.
Get Certified. After obtaining your licence, you may need to get certified by the National Safety Council or other recognized organizations. This certification may include passing additional exams and courses.
Market Yourself. You need to advertise your services and make sure potential clients know you are available. You can do this through local newspapers, flyers, websites and word of mouth.
Keep Up with Continuing Education Requirements. Depending on the state you live in, you may be required to complete continuing education classes in order to keep your licence and stay current on the latest laws and regulations regarding driving instruction.

Becoming a skilled and capable driving instructor requires a great deal of practice, knowledge, and dedication. To start, one must have the necessary experience and qualifications, such as a clean criminal record and a valid driver's license. Next, aspiring instructors must pass a series of tests to prove their knowledge of traffic laws, safety regulations, and driving techniques.

Once these qualifications have been met, students must demonstrate that they are able to adapt to different driving conditions and react quickly to potential hazards. Finally, they must demonstrate to the instructor that they are capable of teaching others how to drive while maintaining a safe environment. With the correct level of training and practice, driving instructors can become skilled and capable in their field and provide an invaluable service to their students.

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Job Description

Delivers driving instruction to students in accordance with the curriculum.
Evaluates student progress and records performance data and lesson notes.
Demonstrates proper driving techniques and emphasizes the importance of safe driving habits.
Makes adjustments to instruction based on the students learning style and abilities.
Develops and implements appropriate lesson plans for individual students.
Provides students with feedback on their performance in order to improve their skills.
Maintains records of student progress including attendance, test scores, and other pertinent information.
Coordinates with other instructors and staff to ensure consistency of instruction.
Maintains knowledge of current laws, regulations, and best practices related to driving instruction.
Performs related duties as assigned by the supervisor or school administration.

Skills and Competencies to Have

Knowledge of applicable traffic laws and regulations.
Ability to impart driving knowledge to students.
Thorough understanding of vehicle mechanics.
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
Patience and a calm demeanor while teaching.
Ability to evaluate the driving abilities of students.
Familiarity with the local area roads and geography.
Ability to assess potential hazards in the driving environment.
Ability to maintain accurate records of student progress.
Ability to set and maintain high standards of student performance.

Being a successful driving instructor requires a variety of skills, but the most important skill to have is the ability to stay calm and patient in any situation. Driving instructors must be able to take on the responsibility of teaching their students how to drive safely and responsibly, which can be difficult when dealing with impatient or anxious drivers. Good communication skills are essential for a driving instructor in order to explain the rules of the road, give clear directions and provide constructive feedback.

having excellent observational skills and being able to spot any errors or potentially dangerous scenarios is also essential. By equipping their students with the right knowledge and advice, driving instructors can help reduce the risk of road accidents. Having a positive attitude and being able to build a good rapport with their students is also very important for a driving instructor.

By creating a safe and comfortable learning environment, instructors can help build the confidence of their students and ensure that they gain the necessary skills to become a safe and responsible driver.

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Frequent Interview Questions

What inspired you to become a Driving Instructor?
What experience do you have in teaching people how to drive?
How would you handle a student who is having difficulty learning how to drive?
What methods do you use to assess a students driving ability?
How do you ensure the safety of your students while they are driving?
What strategies do you use to help students become more comfortable behind the wheel?
How do you stay up-to-date on changes in driving laws and regulations?
What challenges have you faced as a Driving Instructor?
How do you motivate your students to learn more efficiently?
What do you think makes you a successful Driving Instructor?

Common Tools in Industry

Driving simulator. A software program that enables drivers to practice and improve their driving skills in a virtual environment. (eg: Microsoft Xbox Forza Motorsport)
Driving record software. Software that allows instructors to keep track of students progress, records, and scores. (eg: DriveTech Driver Record System)
Video analysis. Software that allows instructors to analyze students driving performance with video. (eg: DriveTech Road Sense Analysis)
Online courses. Online courses that help instructors teach students how to drive safely and in compliance with the law. (eg: National Safety Council's Safe Driving Courses)
Driver education books. Books or manuals that help instructors teach students the rules of the road and best practices for driving. (eg: AAA Driver's Education Handbook)

Professional Organizations to Know

National Association for Driver Education (NADE)
National Safety Council (NSC)
National Association of State Directors of Driver Education (NASDDE)
Professional Association of Driving Instructors (PADI)
Association of Driver Educators and Trainers (ADET)
International Association of Driving Instructors (IADI)
National Driving School Association (NDSA)
National Association of Professional Driving Instructors (NAPDI)
Driving Instructors Association of America (DIAA)
National Federation of Professional Driving Instructors (NFPDI)

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Common Important Terms

Road Test. The process of assessing a persons ability to safely operate a motor vehicle on public roads.
Vehicle Code. A set of laws and regulations governing the operation of motor vehicles.
Traffic Laws. Regulations that govern the behavior of drivers on public roads.
Driver Education. A program designed to teach people how to safely operate a motor vehicle.
Road Signs. Signs placed along the side of the road to provide motorists with guidance and information.
Traffic Safety. Practices and procedures intended to minimize the risk of injury or death while operating a motor vehicle.
Defensive Driving. Techniques used to reduce the risk of motor vehicle accidents by anticipating and reacting to potential hazards.
Emergency Maneuvers. Driving techniques used to address sudden, unexpected changes in traffic flow or other hazards.
Licensing Requirements. Rules and regulations that must be satisfied in order to legally operate a motor vehicle.
Vehicle Maintenance. Procedures used to keep a motor vehicle in safe working condition.