Your first step to becoming an instructor is to register with the Driving Standards Agency (DSA) to train as an Approved Driving Instructor (ADI).

To apply for registration, you must: have held a full UK or EU driving licence for at least four years out of the last six have not been disqualified during the last four years complete criminal record and motoring conviction checks pass a theory test and two practical exams within two years of the theory test.

The Approved Driving Instructor (ADI) exams come in three parts: a computer-based theory test a practical test of driving skills a practical test of teaching ability. You must pass each part before taking the next. You can sit the theory test as many times as you like, but you only have three attempts at each of the practical tests in any two-year period.

Courses are run by specialist training schools and by driving schools. Costs, course length, content and teaching methods all vary.

Once you have passed the first two parts of the ADI exams, you could apply to join the trainee licensing scheme (although this is not compulsory) to help you gain experience of driving instruction. The trainee licence is valid for six months and gives you the right to receive payment for driving instruction with a driving school. Experience in a driving job or teaching would give you an advantage. Many driving schools prefer applicants over the age of 21 because insurance premiums are lower.