Driver Instructor Job Information
Driving instructors train people on how to safely operate motorized vehicles. They may work with people who are earning a license to drive a personal vehicle or with students entering careers as commercial drivers. Instructors explore a variety of driving-related topics with students, including traffic laws, defensive driving tactics, and safety concerns. They also drive with students to provide hands-on training.
Career Requirements
| Education Level | No degree required; high school diploma or GED |
| Licensure | Valid state driver's license and instructor license |
| Experience | 2-5 years of driving experience may be necessary for instructor licensure; employers may prefer applicants with teaching experience |
| Key Skills | Communication, patience, teaching ability, listening skills, and compassion; strong knowledge of motor vehicle operation and safety |
| Median Annual Salary (2020) | $47,945 per year (for driving instructors)* |
*Sources: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, PayScale.com
How to Become a Driving Instructor
Step 1: Get the Right License
The type of driving that an instructor teaches determines the license required. There are different classes of licenses, and each class allows people to drive different vehicles.
In most states, driver's license applicants need to complete a driver education course and have behind-the-wheel experience; they also must be at least 16 years of age. In addition, individuals must pass both written and practical exams. A vision test may also be required.
Step 2: Gain Driving Experience
Although each state has different regulations, many states require driving instructors to have a driver's license for several years prior to becoming an instructor. While personal driving may be sufficient experience for some instructors, those who provide commercial driving instruction may be required to spend some time working as commercial drivers.
Step 4: Obtain Driving Instructor Certification
What qualifications do you need to be a driving instructor? In many states, prospective instructors must complete a driver instructor training program before applying for licensure. These programs often cover teaching techniques, motor vehicle operation, and traffic safety. Aspiring instructors may be required to complete teaching experiences as well. Drivers ed teacher certification requires driving instructors to be excellent drivers with a strong understanding of safety regulations.
Qualifications for driving instructors include:
- GED
- Certificate
- Licensure
- Excellent driving skills
- Clean criminal record
- Clean driving record
- Good vision
Step 3: Driving Instructor Licensure
In addition to a training program, the majority of states require applicants to take written and practical exams. The exams test applicants' knowledge of traffic laws and verify their ability to provide students with clear driving instructions. In many states, applicants must be at least 21 years of age to receive a driving instructor's license.
Step 5: Maintain Certification and Licensure
Instructor licenses are only good for a specific period of time and must be renewed. The renewal time periods, fees, and requirements vary. Driving instructor certification renewal generally involves a new criminal background check and a driving record check.
Success Tip:
- Teach students defensive driving. This is the safest and most highly recommended driving technique available.
