Choosing the correct driving instructor for you is very similar to trying on clothes – you may hope that everything will fit correctly, but sometimes that just isn’t the case.
Maybe it’s too tight, too baggy, or it simply just doesn’t feel right.
Whichever the reason is, whether it’s a driving instructor or piece of clothing, you want the perfect fit.
So, let’s take a look at some of the key considerations involved when making your decision.
Where should we start?
1. Who do you know?
Firstly, you should probably ask your friends and family if they have any recommendations – first-hand knowledge and experience is probably the best tool in making a decision.
But, we realise that some of you may be the first of your friends to start driving, or that your friends had a bad experience with their instructor – if this is the case, then don’t worry. You can use reviews, just like you would with recommendations, and look for somebody with an established reputation in your local area.
Whichever route you choose, word-of-mouth and genuine reviews are the best way you can get a handle on your choice.
Our tip: Ask personal questions, especially if you are nervous about learning to drive. Try to get a better grasp of who the person is, and whether you have a connection.
2. Do your research
You may be wondering ‘what research can I do?’, and we wouldn’t blame you.
But just like you would with your College or University work, you should search around to find a good match, even if you have been given a recommendation.
There is no harm in checking for yourself, and who knows, it may even give you some clarity on who to choose.
Our tip: If you receive a recommendation, or find an instructor using reviews, please make sure they are properly qualified. Look to see whether they are a Driving Standards Agency Approved Driving Instructor (ADI).
3. Pre-paying for driving lessons
When you first go for a driving lesson, the instructor will often give you a competitively priced bundle deal, where they offer you a set number of hours, in return for a small discount.
This may seem like a great option for most of you, and in reality, it can save you a decent chunk of money – but, how do you know whether you gel with an instructor?
Maybe it’s worth taking a few introductory lessons, and getting a better feel for the driving instructor (their personality, skill level, etc) before committing to lots of hours, to make sure you are both on the same page.
Make the best decision for you – learning to drive is a big step in your life, so it’s important you do it correctly.
4. What vehicle do they have available?
Perhaps you want to be driving around in the coolest car possible whilst taking your lessons, or maybe you want a small’ish vehicle to help ease your nerves.
Whatever your reason may be, it would definitely worth checking out what you’ll be driving ahead of time.
Of course, looks are definitely not everything in this case – so if you have an offer to learn with a highly-rated, nice driving instructor, do not blow it off because it’s not the nicest colour or make.
Choosing the right driving instructor is the most important thing in the whole experience.
Substance over style on this one.
5. What should I look for?
When you are looking for a good driving instructor, there are some very simple signs you should look out for along the way.
You will have noticed that at school, some teachers were better than others – perhaps they were more helpful, a little more patient with you, or were just slightly more organised than others.
So, when it comes to finding the perfect driving instructor, you’ll want to find one who meets your needs, so here are a few of the key things to look for:
- Punctuality
- Organisation
- Patience
- Friendliness
- Knowledge
Ideally, your perfect driving instructor would have all of these qualities, and be able to answer all of your questions and queries about driving, as well as ease your nerves, and be realistic with your time frame for passing your test.