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What does a Driving Instructor do?

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Brenna Goyette
Certified Professional Resume Writer, Career Expert

Published 3 min read

A driving instructor is a person who helps people learn how to drive.

Driving Instructor job duties include:

  • Evaluating students' skills and progress
  • Developing lesson plans
  • Instructing students on proper driving techniques
  • Demonstrating driving maneuvers
  • Providing feedback to students
  • Maintaining records of student progress
  • Scheduling driving lessons
  • Resolving student concerns or issues
  • Maintaining a safe and positive learning environment

Driving Instructor Job Requirements

Most driving instructors have a high school diploma, although some have a college degree. All driving instructors must complete a state-approved training program and pass a written exam and a road test. Some states require driving instructors to have several years of experience as a licensed driver before they can become certified driving instructors.

Driving Instructor Skills

  • Patience
  • Good people skills
  • Excellent driving skills
  • The ability to stay calm under pressure
  • Good organizational and time management skills
  • The ability to give clear instructions
  • The ability to assess someone's driving ability
  • Good observational skills
  • The ability to give constructive feedback
  • A knowledge of the local area
  • Flexibility

Related: Top Driving Instructor Skills: Definition and Examples

How to become a Driving Instructor

A driving instructor is someone who provides instruction and training in the operation of a motor vehicle. There are many different types of driving instructors, from those who teach new drivers how to operate a vehicle, to those who provide advanced training for experienced drivers.

The first step to becoming a driving instructor is to obtain the necessary education and training. Many driving instructors are certified through professional organizations such as the National Safety Council or the American Automobile Association. These organizations offer both classroom and behind-the-wheel instruction. In order to become certified, driving instructors must pass both a written exam and a skills test.

Once you have obtained the necessary education and training, the next step is to obtain a license from your state's department of motor vehicles. Each state has different requirements for licensure, but most require that you pass a written exam and a road test. Once you have obtained your license, you will need to maintain it by completing continuing education courses on a regular basis.

After you have met all of the requirements for becoming a driving instructor, you can begin looking for employment. Many driving schools are always in need of qualified instructors. You can also work as an independent contractor, providing instruction to individual students.

No matter what type of career you choose as a driving instructor, you will be playing an important role in helping people learn how to safely operate a motor vehicle.

Related: Driving Instructor Resume Example

Related: Driving Instructor Interview Questions (With Example Answers)

Editorial staff

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Editor

Brenna Goyette

Expert Verified

Brenna is a certified professional resume writer, career expert, and the content manager of the ResumeCat team. She has a background in corporate recruiting and human resources and has been writing resumes for over 10 years. Brenna has experience in recruiting for tech, finance, and marketing roles and has a passion for helping people find their dream jobs. She creates expert resources to help job seekers write the best resumes and cover letters, land the job, and succeed in the workplace.

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