Top 11 Driving Instructor Certifications

Certifications are important for driving instructors in the job market because they demonstrate a high level of knowledge and expertise in the field. Certified instructors have gone through rigorous training and testing to prove their abilities, which can give employers confidence that they are hiring qualified professionals. Additionally, certifications can be used as a marketing tool to attract potential students, as well as to demonstrate a commitment to providing high-quality instruction. Finally, certifications may also provide access to additional resources for driving instructors, such as discounts on insurance or other services.

This article reviews some of the top certifications for Driving Instructors and explains how they can contribute to a driving instructor's career in order to help them further their professional development.

What are Driving Instructor Certifications?

Driving instructor certification is a process that helps to ensure that driving instructors meet the minimum standards set by their state or local licensing authority. The certification process typically includes an assessment of the applicant's knowledge and experience, as well as background checks and other measures. By requiring driving instructors to be certified, regulatory authorities are able to better protect the public from unqualified and potentially dangerous individuals who may not have the necessary skills or qualifications to teach driving safely.

In addition to providing assurance that prospective students are receiving proper instruction from qualified individuals, certification also serves to help protect instructors themselves. It can provide peace of mind for instructors who know that they have met the required standards in order to practice their profession with confidence. Additionally, certified instructors may be eligible for additional benefits such as discounts on insurance premiums or professional development opportunities.

Overall, driver instructor certification is a valuable tool that helps ensure both public safety and professional standards among those teaching others how to drive safely.

Pro Tip: When looking for a driving instructor certification, make sure to do your research and check that the program is certified by the state or local DMV. This will ensure that the instructor has met all of the necessary qualifications and can provide quality instruction.

Related: What does a Driving Instructor do?

Top 11 Driving Instructor Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Driving Instructors today.

1. National Safety Council Certified Driving Instructor

The National Safety Council Certified Driving Instructor (NSC-CDI) is a certification program designed to recognize and promote excellence in driver education instruction. The NSC-CDI program provides a comprehensive approach to driver education, including classroom instruction, behind-the-wheel training, and other activities that help ensure safe driving habits.

To become an NSC-CDI, individuals must complete an approved course of study and pass a written examination. The course of study includes topics such as defensive driving techniques, traffic laws and regulations, vehicle dynamics and maintenance, teaching methods and techniques, and the principles of risk management.

The NSC-CDI certification process typically takes about three months to complete. To get started, individuals must first find an approved instructor training program in their area or online. Most programs require applicants to have at least two years of experience teaching driver education courses before they can be accepted into the program. Once accepted into the program, students will need to attend classes or complete online coursework covering the topics listed above.

Once the coursework has been completed, students must take a written exam administered by the National Safety Council. Upon passing this exam with a score of 80% or higher, individuals will be awarded their NSC-CDI certification.

The cost of becoming an NSC-CDI varies depending on the specific training program chosen. Most programs charge between $500-$1,000 for tuition fees and materials needed for the coursework portion of the certification process. In addition to these fees, there may also be additional costs associated with taking the written exam such as exam registration fees or travel expenses if it needs to be taken at an offsite location.

2. National Association of Safety Professionals Certified Driving Instructor

The National Association of Safety Professionals Certified Driving Instructor (NASPCDI) is a certification program designed to provide instructors with the knowledge and skills necessary to teach safe driving practices. This certification is available to those who have completed an approved driver education course, have at least two years of professional experience teaching driver education, and have passed a written exam.

It typically takes between four and six months to complete the requirements for the NASPCDI certification. The first step is to take an approved driver education course from a qualified instructor or school. After completing this course, applicants must then pass a written exam that covers topics such as traffic laws, defensive driving techniques, vehicle maintenance, and accident prevention strategies.

Once these requirements are met, applicants can apply for the NASPCDI certification through the National Association of Safety Professionals website. The cost of the certification is $199 USD. Upon successful completion of all requirements, applicants will receive their NASPCDI certificate and be eligible to teach driver education courses in their state or province.

3. American Automobile Association Certified Driving Instructor

The American Automobile Association (AAA) Certified Driving Instructor program is a comprehensive training and certification program designed to help individuals become qualified driving instructors. The program focuses on teaching safe, defensive driving techniques, as well as providing instruction on the rules of the road and other important topics related to driving.

It typically takes around six months to complete the AAA Certified Driving Instructor program. During this time, participants will attend classes and workshops, take exams, and complete field experience hours with a qualified instructor. Upon successful completion of the program, participants will receive an official certificate from AAA recognizing them as an AAA Certified Driving Instructor.

To get started in the AAA Certified Driving Instructor program, you must first contact your local AAA office for information about enrollment requirements and fees. Depending on your location, you may be required to attend an orientation session or take a written exam prior to beginning the coursework. Once accepted into the program, you will need to complete all required classes and workshops within a specified period of time in order to receive your certificate at the end of the course.

The cost of becoming an AAA Certified Driving Instructor varies by location but is typically between $400-$600 USD for tuition and materials. Additional fees may also apply for background checks or other requirements depending on your state’s regulations.

4. Professional Driver Institute Certified Driving Instructor

Professional Driver Institute Certified Driving Instructor (PDI-CDI) is a professional certification program for driving instructors. It is designed to provide the highest level of training and education for those who wish to become certified driving instructors. The program requires applicants to have at least two years of teaching experience and must pass a rigorous written exam.

The PDI-CDI program takes approximately six months to complete, depending on the individual’s schedule and availability. Applicants must first complete an online application form, which includes submitting proof of their teaching experience and passing a background check. Once accepted into the program, applicants must attend a three-day training seminar in person. During this seminar, they will learn about classroom management, instructional techniques, defensive driving strategies, and more.

After completing the seminar, applicants must take a written exam that tests their knowledge of the course material. If they pass the exam with a score of 80% or higher, they will be granted certification as Professional Driver Institute Certified Driving Instructors (PDI-CDI).

The cost of becoming a PDI-CDI varies depending on the location and type of training offered. Generally speaking, it can range from $1,000-$2,500 USD for the entire program including all materials and fees associated with attending seminars and taking exams.

5. National Driver Training Institute Certified Driving Instructor

The National Driver Training Institute (NDTI) Certified Driving Instructor program is a comprehensive course designed to equip individuals with the skills and knowledge necessary to become a certified driving instructor. The program consists of both classroom instruction and practical experience, which can be completed in as little as two weeks.

The program covers topics such as driver safety, defensive driving techniques, vehicle maintenance, traffic laws, and more. It also includes hands-on training in the operation of various types of vehicles. Upon completion of the program, participants will receive certification from NDTI and will be qualified to teach driving courses at accredited schools or organizations.

To become an NDTI Certified Driving Instructor, applicants must meet certain requirements including having a valid driver’s license and at least two years of professional driving experience. Applicants must also pass a written exam administered by NDTI that covers topics such as driver safety, defensive driving techniques, vehicle maintenance, traffic laws, and more.

The cost for the NDTI Certified Driving Instructor program varies depending on the length of the course and other factors such as location. Generally speaking, it costs between $500-$1,000 USD to complete the entire program.

6. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Certified Driving Instructor

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) Certified Driving Instructor program is a certification program that provides professional driving instructors with the knowledge, skills, and abilities to teach safe driving practices. This certification is recognized by state licensing boards, driver education providers, and other organizations.

It typically takes about 2-4 weeks to complete the certification process. To get certified as an NHTSA Certified Driving Instructor, you must first complete a 40-hour instructor training course approved by the NHTSA. You must also pass a written exam and demonstrate your proficiency in teaching safe driving practices.

The cost of the NHTSA Certified Driving Instructor program varies depending on the provider. Generally speaking, it can range from $500-$1,000 for the training course and exam fees.

7. International Association of Defensive Driving Instructors Certified Driving Instructor

The International Association of Defensive Driving Instructors (IADDI) Certified Driving Instructor program is a comprehensive certification program for driving instructors. The program is designed to provide driving instructors with the knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary to teach safe and effective defensive driving techniques.

The IADDI Certified Driving Instructor program consists of two components: an online course and a practical assessment. The online course covers topics such as driver safety, vehicle dynamics, risk management, teaching methods, and other related topics. Upon successful completion of the online course, participants must pass a practical assessment which includes a written exam and a road test.

It typically takes 4-6 weeks to complete the IADDI Certified Driving Instructor program. To get started, individuals must register for the program through the IADDI website. Once registered, they will be sent an email with instructions on how to access the online course materials and schedule their practical assessment.

The cost of the IADDI Certified Driving Instructor program varies depending on the country in which it is being taken. Generally speaking, it costs around $200 USD to participate in the program.

8. State Licensed and Insured Driving School Certified Driving Instructor

State Licensed and Insured Driving School Certified Driving Instructor is a certification that allows an individual to teach driver's education courses in the state they are certified. This certification requires individuals to have a valid driver’s license, complete a state approved training program, and pass a written exam.

The length of time it takes to become certified varies by state, but typically ranges from 6-12 months. In order to become certified, individuals must first complete an approved driver’s education course. The course usually consists of classroom instruction, practical driving experience, and a final exam. After completing the course, individuals must then take and pass the written exam administered by their state's Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV).

The cost of becoming certified depends on the state in which the individual is located. Generally speaking, the cost of taking the driver’s education course can range from $200-$500 depending on where you live. Additionally, there may be additional fees for taking the written exam or for any other materials required for certification.

Overall, becoming State Licensed and Insured Driving School Certified Driving Instructor is an important step in becoming an effective teacher of driver’s education courses. It requires dedication and hard work but can be very rewarding for those who are passionate about teaching others how to drive safely and responsibly.

9. National Driver Trainers Association Certified Driving Instructor

The National Driver Trainers Association (NDTA) Certified Driving Instructor (CDI) is a professional designation that recognizes those who have achieved the highest level of excellence in the field of driver training. The CDI program is designed to provide quality instruction to new and experienced drivers, while also promoting safety on the road.

To become an NDTA Certified Driving Instructor, applicants must first meet certain eligibility criteria. This includes having at least three years of experience as a driving instructor or similar role, passing a written exam and completing a minimum of 30 hours of approved continuing education courses. Once these requirements are met, applicants must submit an application and fee to the NDTA for review and approval.

The process typically takes two to three months from start to finish. The cost for the certification program varies depending on the state in which you reside; however, most states charge between $200 and $500 for the application fee alone. Additional costs may include fees for background checks, testing materials and continuing education courses.

10. National Safety Commission Certified Driving Instructor

The National Safety Commission Certified Driving Instructor (NSC CDI) is a certification program designed to recognize driving instructors who have demonstrated excellence in the field of driver education. The program is administered by the National Safety Commission and is recognized by many states as a valid certification for driving instructors.

To become certified, applicants must meet certain requirements, including having at least two years of experience teaching driver education and passing an extensive written exam. The exam covers topics such as state driving laws, road safety, vehicle operation, and teaching methods. After passing the exam, applicants are awarded the NSC CDI designation.

It typically takes two to four weeks to complete the application process and receive your certification. To get started, you will need to fill out an online application form and pay a registration fee of $50. You will then be sent an email with instructions on how to access the online testing system. Once you have completed the exam, you will receive your certificate within two weeks via mail or email.

The cost of becoming an NSC CDI varies depending on your state’s requirements but typically ranges from $50-$200. This cost includes the registration fee as well as any additional fees required by your state for licensing or certification purposes.

11. American Driver and Traffic Safety Education Association Certified Driving Instructor

The American Driver and Traffic Safety Education Association (ADTSEA) Certified Driving Instructor (CDI) program is a professional-level certification that recognizes individuals who have demonstrated a high level of knowledge, skills, and abilities in the field of driver education. The CDI program is designed to ensure that driving instructors are properly trained and qualified to teach students the necessary skills and knowledge required to become safe drivers.

To obtain the CDI certification, applicants must meet certain educational requirements, including having completed an approved driver education course or equivalent training. In addition, applicants must pass an examination administered by ADTSEA. The exam covers topics such as traffic laws, vehicle operation and safety, teaching methods, and instructional strategies.

The cost of obtaining the CDI certification varies depending on the state in which you live. Generally speaking, it costs between $100-$200 for the application fee and exam fee combined. Depending on your state’s regulations, you may also be required to pay additional fees for background checks or other administrative costs.

The amount of time it takes to get certified depends on how quickly you can complete the requirements for certification. Generally speaking, it can take anywhere from several weeks to several months to complete all of the necessary steps in order to become certified.

Do You Really Need a Driving Instructor Certificate?

The answer to whether or not you need a driving instructor certificate depends on where you live and what your goals are. In some countries, such as the United States, you may be required by law to have a driving instructor certificate in order to teach people how to drive. If this is the case in your area, then yes, it is necessary for you to obtain one.

However, if you are simply looking to teach someone how to drive without any legal requirements or restrictions, then a driving instructor certificate may not be necessary. It is important to note that even if there are no legal requirements for having a certificate, it can still be beneficial in helping you develop your teaching skills and build credibility as an instructor. Having a certificate also shows potential students that you have taken the time and effort to become certified and that they can trust that you will provide quality instruction.

In conclusion, whether or not you need a driving instructor certificate depends largely on where you live and what your goals are. In some places it may be legally required while in others it may not be necessary but still beneficial for building credibility. Ultimately, it is up to you decide if obtaining a driving instructor certificate is worth your time and money.

Related: Driving Instructor Resume Examples

FAQs About Driving Instructor Certifications

1. What qualifications do I need to become a driving instructor?

Answer: To become a driving instructor, you must first pass the approved driving instructor (ADI) test, which consists of three parts: theory, practical and instructional ability. You must also have held a full UK driving licence for at least 4 years and be over 21 years of age.

2. How long does it take to get certified as a driving instructor?

Answer: It typically takes around 12-18 months to complete the ADI certification process, depending on how quickly you progress through each stage.

3. Are there any additional requirements for becoming a driving instructor?

Answer: Yes, you will also need to get an enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check and pass the 'fit and proper person' test set by the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA).

4. Can I start teaching before I am fully certified as a driving instructor?

Answer: No, you must be fully qualified before you can begin teaching learner drivers on public roads.

5. How much does it cost to become a certified driving instructor?

Answer: The total cost of becoming an ADI varies depending on your circumstances; however, in general, you should expect to pay around £1000-£1500 for training materials and exams fees.