1. All DSA approved Driving Instructor Lesson Plans are graded via a check test process. Confirm what grade your instructor is at (grade 6 is the highest) and when their next check test is due.
Grade 6: Only 6% of Driving Instructors are grade 6. Top grade available.
Grade 5: Good instruction given. Around 20% of Driving Instructors are grade 5.
Grade 4: Competent instruction given. A grade 4 Driving Instructor with a good attitude can still get you through your driving test first time.
Ungraded: This would a newly qualified instructor who will be ungraded until their first check test.
A green octagonal badge shows the instructor is a fully qualified ADI and completed all necessary DSA tests in order to teach pupils without any form of supervision.
A pink triangular badge shows the instructor is part qualified and is currently undertaking practical training with an approved college or ADI. Instructors with a pink badge qualification have undertaken most of the DSA tests required and are allowed to teach members of the public as this is part of their training until they complete the course, passing all required DSA tests.
2. Aside from the DSA, does your instructor have any other qualifications above the minimum DSA tests? The higher the qualifications your instructor has, the higher the chances in you obtaining that all important FIRST TIME PASS!
3. How will you taught – will your instructor design lesson plans and structure a programme for your learning or will you just drive around and hope for the best?
4. Can you try before you buy – ie is your first lesson free? If your first lesson is free of charge this will allow you to see how comfortable you are with the driving instructor and give you a good gauge of how you will be taught should you take up further lessons with that school.
5. Is there any other assistance your instructor will provide to get you through the Theory and Hazard Perception tests or will you left to figure this out yourself?
6. Does the driving school offer a discount for block bookings? Many schools will offer incentives for you to block book which will not only help keep your costs down in the long run, but also enable you to pre-book the particular date and time slot that would best suit you in advance.
7. What is the driving schools policy for cancelling a driving lesson? Confirm with your instructor or school if there is a cancellation policy in order to avoid cancellation charges.
8. Is your instructor available when you will want lessons? Many learners have work/family or education commitments; confirm that your instructor can take your lessons when it will suit you.
There are several factors you should consider before signing up with a driving school. But the most important is that you are comfortable with what you and your instructor have agreed upon. Remember if there is something you are not happy with. You need to discuss this with your instructor and work out what can done. Learning to drive is not cheap, QUALITY IS ALWAYS BETTER THAN QUANTITY, so ask the right questions and ensure you are getting value for your money!
