The Cost of Becoming a Driving Instructor: A Breakdown for PDIs

10/04/2025

With the ongoing demand for skilled driving instructors, becoming an Approved Driving Instructor (ADI) can be a rewarding career path. But many aspiring instructors, or PDIs (Potential Driving Instructors), often ask one burning question — what is the actual cost of becoming a driving instructor? From training courses to setting up your business, we’ve put together this detailed breakdown to give you a clear picture of the investment required to start this exciting career.

Training Course Costs

The first major expense on your path to becoming a driving instructor is, naturally, your training. To qualify as an ADI, you’ll need to pass three stages of exams. Comprehensive training courses are essential to help you prepare for these.

• Initial Course Fees: Training course costs typically range from £1,000 to £4,000, depending on the provider and the level of support offered. Thorough training will cover everything from driving techniques to effective teaching methods.

• Resources and Materials: Additional resources like textbooks, DVDs, and mock tests may cost an extra £100–£200.

• Retake Fees for Training: If you don’t succeed on your first attempt at any exam and need further coaching, plan for extra costs based on hourly rates for refresher lessons.

Investing in high-quality training not only helps you pass your ADI tests but also ensures you’re confident and skilled in your new career.

Exam Fees

The pathway to becoming an ADI includes passing three formal tests set by the DVSA:

• Part 1 – Theory Test:

Passing the theory test costs £81. This is a multiple-choice test alongside a hazard perception section. Thankfully, training courses provide plenty of prep for this section.

• Part 2 – Driving Ability Test:

This practical driving test costs £111 per attempt. It evaluates your advanced driving skills and ability to handle different road situations.

• Part 3 – Instructional Ability Test:

This final test, costing £111, simulates real-life teaching scenarios to ensure you can effectively train learner drivers.

If you need to retake any of these tests, the fees will apply for every attempt. Passing all three stages is essential to progressing from being a PDI to a fully qualified ADI.

Dual Control Car and Insurance

Once you’ve passed your Part 2 exam, you’ll need to start learning how to teach students from the passenger seat. For this, securing a dual control car is a must.

• Dual Control Fitting Price: You’ll need additional pedals (dual controls) installed in your vehicle to ensure you can intervene during lessons. These typically cost between £250 and £500. At Grade Six Supplies, we offer high-quality, transferable dual controls designed for safety and durability.

• Insurance Costs: Driving instructor insurance is essential. These policies account for the increased risk of learner drivers. Expect to pay annual premiums starting at £700, which will vary depending on your car and teaching location.

• Car Lease or Purchase:

Leased cars suitable for learner drivers often cost around £100 to £200 per week, while purchasing a suitable vehicle will set you back anywhere from £8,000 to £15,000.

Don’t forget to factor in general vehicle expenses like MOTs, servicing, and fuel costs as well!

Business Setup Costs

Starting as an independent instructor or branding yourself as part of a driving school will come with its own set of costs. Here’s what you might need to budget for:

• Website and Marketing Materials:

A professional website to attract new students may cost £300 to £1,500 to create if outsourced, or much less with DIY options. You’ll also need marketing materials like business cards and flyers. Explore our range of affordable promotional items to get started.

• Signage:

Magnetic or vinyl car signs with your contact details are an essential marketing tool, with high-quality options starting from £50.

Legal & Administrative Fees:

You might need to set up a sole proprietorship or limited company. Registration and legal expenses for setting up your business can start at around £12, and professional advice may add £100 or more.

Ongoing Costs

Even after qualifying, there are several ongoing costs you should plan for to maintain and grow your driving instructor business.

• Continuous Professional Development (CPD):

Enhancing your teaching skills or keeping up with DVSA requirements may cost £100–£300 per session, depending on the training programmes you choose.

• Membership Fees:

Joining professional organisations like the ADINJC or DIA may cost £100–£200 annually, giving you access to support services, discounts, and valuable industry insights.

• Marketing & Lead Generation:

If you opt to work under a driving school franchise, they’ll typically help with lead generation but will charge fees starting at £100 per week. Independent instructors will need to allocate funds for ads and promotions.

Funding Options for PDIs

It’s no secret that the costs to qualify as an ADI can add up. But don’t worry – there are funding options available to help ease the financial burden:

• Personal Loans:

Many aspiring instructors use personal loans to cover initial training and car expenses.

• Grants:

Depending on your location, there may be government grants or subsidies available for skill development.

• Franchise Options:

If you join a franchise, they may offer discounted training or car lease packages, covering upfront costs in exchange for ongoing fees.

Explore your options to find a solution that works for your financial situation while keeping your goals in mind.

Take the Wheel of Your Career

Becoming a driving instructor is an investment in your future. While the initial costs may seem high, the ability to earn £30,000 to £40,000 annually and enjoy the flexibility of being your own boss makes it all worthwhile. Planning your expenses carefully and exploring cost-effective solutions—like purchasing your dual controls, promotional materials, and signage from trusted suppliers like Grade Six Supplies—can help you on your way to a successful career.

If you’re ready to hit the road as an instructor, take the first step today. Maximise your profitability by planning wisely and don’t forget to periodically revisit your business strategy to ensure long-term success!