Choosing The Right School

[MarkB]

Professional driving instructors in the UK have to be registered with the Driving Standards Agency. To register, a three part examination has to be passed as well as periodic `Check Tests' of instructional ability where a Grade is awarded.

The original Register of Approved Driving Instructors was established in October 1964. Registration became compulsory for professional driving instructors in 1970.
Since April 1990, the ADI Register has been maintained by the Driving Standards Agency. Be wary of unlicensed, untrained people who are not subject to the checks and controls passed by licensed instructors.

Instructors grades, as awarded by the DSA:

* Grade Six. The highest standard with no significant weaknesses
* Grade Five. Good. Minor deficiencies
* Grade Four. Competent. Some shortcomings that need attention
* Grade Three. Inadequate. Unacceptable shortcomings in technique and, or behaviour
* Grade Two. Poor. Numerous deficiencies such as inaccuracies, errors, serious omissions and, or faults in manner
* Grade One. Bad. Instruction is grossly wrong, potentially or actually dangerous and, or serious shortcomings in attitude and approach


Here are questions to ask prior to choosing a school.

Will your instructor:

* be a DSA registered instructor? Is the licence posted in the vehicle?
* Is the licence RED or GREEN?, therefore is your instructor still learning?
* be the same person all the way through your training program?
* have significant driving experience? How much?
* have qualifications beyond the ADI?
* be associated with professional associations which promote driver excellence?
* can you choose a specific instructor about whom you've heard good things?

Some additional items that can be offered that show their commitment in helping you to pass are:

* home study packs
* mock theory test papers
* all the relevant books required to help you pass the theory test and practical test (The Highway Code, Driving Manual, Know Your Road Signs and Theory Test books), for hire or for sale
* PassPlus scheme
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Regards

MarkB
www.UKDrivingSchools.co.uk
www.WorldDrivingSchools.com/uk