Becoming a driving instructor involves meeting national or local requirements, taking a certification course, and passing an exam. Instructors should be patient, comfortable teaching in groups and individually, and have a calm demeanor. Opportunities are available at private schools or as a freelance instructor, with some specializing in specific types of vehicles or technical classes.
The path to becoming a driving instructor is relatively straightforward, with slight variations in requirements depending on where the instructor will be teaching. There are usually national or local regulations on what is required for certification and it is best to check with your local department of motor vehicles for details. In the United States, each state has its own set of requirements that usually involve taking a certification course and passing an exam. Often these courses must be recognized and approved by the jurisdiction granting the certification, so it is always best to confirm the applicable requirements before enrolling in any program. Many areas also require the applicant to possess a high school diploma, meet a minimum age, and have a driver’s license.
Driving instructors often provide instruction in the classroom and behind the wheel. As a result, potential instructors must be able to teach both in groups and individually. In addition, instructors should be comfortable working with a variety of personalities.
Patience is also an essential qualification for anyone wanting to become a driving instructor. As students frequently make mistakes while learning to drive, an instructor must be equipped to handle these situations and offer guidance. Given the safety concerns inherent in learning to drive, calm demeanor as students learn to drive is also very important.
Employment opportunities for someone wanting to become a driving instructor are usually found at private schools. These schools may have their own job requirements in addition to those required locally, so it’s best to check directly with the school before applying. In some cases, an individual may decide to work as a freelance driving instructor. This would additionally require the ability to run a business and, in some areas, a specialist specialist driver’s license. Opportunities are also available for high school and sometimes community college instructors; however, these positions may require a college-level degree.
Some instructors specialize in instructing students to drive specific types of vehicles, such as trucks, commercial vehicles, or buses. Other instructors choose to focus on teaching technical classes such as defensive driving, driving in extreme conditions or even racing cars. To become a driving instructor in one of these specialized areas, you will likely need a driver’s license for the appropriate class of vehicle and additional certifications. Your local motor vehicle department and driving school will be able to provide you with more information about qualifications for these types of jobs.
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