Getting Started

you will need a valid provisional licence-

To apply for a licence click here;

Some considerations when choosing a driving instructor/school;

  • Choosing the right school !

    If you are paying someone to teach you to drive, they must be approved and registered with the Driving & Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA). Only a registered approved driving instructor (ADI) can charge money for teaching you to drive.
    A fully qualified approved driving instructor (ADI) must display a green certificate on the windscreen of the car while teaching you. Some trainee driving instructors are granted a licence so they can gain experience before their qualifying examination. In this case, the trainee driving instructor must display a pink certificate on the windscreen.
    DVSA is responsible for maintaining and checking the standards of all approved driving instructors (ADI), who to qualify must:

    • have held a full driving licence for at least four years
    • pass a much tougher theory test than the one learner drivers take
    • pass a strict driving test
    • achieve, and maintain a high standard of instruction. The standard of tuition given by the ADI is regularly checked by a supervising examiner from DVSA
    • be registered with DVSA
    • display an ADI identification certificate on the windscreen of the tuition vehicle

    Instructors who are approved, must display their certificate (badge) on the windscreen of the car.

  • A valid licence (dated and a picture of the ADI on the reverse side)

  • Pick someone who has a good reputation. (Ask relatives & friends).

    How many lessons you need will vary for each person.

    Safe driving is a skill for life!

    Your instructor is paid to teach, but you must be willing to learn, put in  plenty of practice, and spend time studying the theory.


  • A good instructor won’t send you for a test, unless they think you are ready. (capable of passing a test, and a safe driver).

    Quality tuition is money well spent!

    You should take advice from your ADI on:

    • all aspects of driving
    • what books to read
    • when to take your test
    • how to practice

    DVSA, as a government agency, is not allowed to recommend an instructor. You could look in a local business directory for ADIs in your area. Try and choose an instructor who:

    • has a good reputation
    • is reliable and punctual
    • has a car that suits you

    Here are questions to ask prior to choosing a school.

    Will your instructor:

    • be a DVSA registered instructor? Is the licence posted in the vehicle?

    • Is the licence GREEN?

    • be the same person all the way through your training program?

    • have significant driving experience? How much?

    • be associated with professional associations which promote driver excellence?

    • can you choose a specific instructor about whom you’ve heard good things?