When you are searching for a driving instructor there are a few key things you need to know. You are going to be spending a lot of time with this person over the next few months or even a year so it’s important you pick the right one.
You want someone you get on with who will give you the confidence you need behind the wheel, so don’t take this decision lightly and don’t just make your choice based on price.
Also don’t just go with someone your parents or friends recommend and don’t feel pressured to go with an instructor just because it’s your mum’s mate’s best friend. These are your lessons and this is your choice.
A great tip is to make sure you have 3 or 4 lessons before committing to a block booking so you know you have a good relationship with each other first.
These are six of the most important things you should be asking before you book your first lesson.
1. How long have you been teaching people to drive?
Some people like instructors with experience, others like new instructors who may be fresher in their approach to teaching. Either way, it’s good to know your instructors background and experience to help you make an informed decision.
2. What’s your favourite part of being a driving instructor?
It may seem an odd question but this is a great way to get talking to your instructor and find out what makes them tick and see if you get on. You want an instructor who loves to teach and knows what they love about doing it. You want someone with passion for what they do.
3. What’s your pass rate?
You are never going to find an instructor with 100% pass rate – that would be impossible or very lucky! A decent pass rate would be preferable but look more for an instructor who knows what their pass rate is. That shows they care.
4. Why should I choose you over the other cheaper instructors?
A driving instructor who knows their worth will be in high demand and won’t need to offer you cheaper lessons. Let them tell you why they are in high demand and give you any extra information about their service.
5. How do you teach?
Try and find an instructor whose teaching method fits the way you like to learn. That way you will get the best value out of the relationship and actually enjoy your lessons rather than dreading them.
6. Are you an engage-trained instructor?
We think this is the most important question of all. Because if you ask this you will know you have an instructor with experience, passion and a great teaching style that covers topics not usually covered in the normal test. We provide passionate instructors who volunteer for our council-backed scheme with extra training and learning resources on all kinds of topics like driving with passengers, speed awareness, driving under the influence, distractions and car maintenance so that you can be road ready from the day you pass your test.
You can find out more about the Engage driving scheme, which operates across Cheshire and Merseyside, by clicking here.
