While young Brits all over the country eagerly await the day they can learn to drive, the Driver & Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) urges learners to check one key thing before paying for driving lessons. The agency released new guidance for the new drivers.
The advice, shared through a social media update, pleads learner drivers to check their driving instructor is officially qualified before committing to lessons. The advice reads: “Looking to start driving lessons? You can find DVSA approved driving instructors by visiting http://GOV.UK. Simply enter your postcode to find approved driving instructors near you.”
The regulator, which oversees driving tests and sets standards for instructors, offers an online postcode search tool allowing soon-to-be drivers to find approved driving instructors (ADIs) in their area.
Through the tool, learner drivers can insert their postcode to find nearby instructors who have signed up to the list.
But, equally, the DVSA warns learners that the list does not include all qualified instructors.
They state: “Approved driving instructors (ADIs) choose whether or not to be on this service, so not all ADIs will be listed.”
Therefore, learner drivers should not presume an instructor is not qualified simply due to their absence on the list.
Instead, if uncertain, new drivers should contact the agency directly to check if an instructor is qualified.
Queries should include the instructor's name and ADI number, if known.
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Customers can reach the DVSA via email at customerservices@dvsa.gov.uk or call 0300 200 1122. The agency is also available to reach through WhatsApp message on +44 (0)1908 787001 or via webchat between 8am and 5pm, Monday to Friday.
A qualified driving instructor is required to meet strict standards and is subject to routine assessments.
The DVSA also provides online guidance on its continuing professional development scheme, the ADI code of practice and instructor standards checks.
Other advice from the DVSA’s social media page include driving test myth busting, practice questions and most common reasons learners fail their driving test.
The agency also regularly reinforces the dangers of driving under the influence of alcohol and drugs.
Learner drivers can search the official DVSA service by entering their information here.
