Driving Instructor Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the era of mobility, the importance of driving instructors has never been more pronounced.

As we progress towards a society that is increasingly dependent on transport, the demand for skilled individuals who can teach, guide, and ensure safety on the roads amplifies.

But let’s dig deeper: What’s truly expected from a driving instructor?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the core responsibilities of this role,
• A hiring manager defining the perfect candidate,
• Or simply curious about the intricacies of being a driving instructor,

You’ve come to the right place.

Today, we present a customizable driving instructor job description template, designed for straightforward posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s get started.

Driving Instructor Duties and Responsibilities

Driving Instructors have the important role of teaching individuals the skills and knowledge needed to obtain a driver’s license, operate a vehicle safely, and follow all traffic laws.

They work closely with students of all ages, from teenagers to adults, to instill good driving habits and confidence behind the wheel.

Driving Instructors are responsible for the following duties and tasks:

• Assessing the skill level and requirements of each learner driver
• Providing theoretical instruction on traffic rules, regulations, and driving laws
• Teaching practical skills, such as parking, reversing, and handling the car in different driving conditions
• Conducting mock tests to prepare students for the actual driving test
• Ensuring students understand and can apply road safety measures
• Monitoring and evaluating learner drivers’ progress and providing constructive feedback
• Maintaining the safety of the vehicle and the student at all times
• Keeping up to date with changes in traffic regulations and best driving practices
• Maintaining records of student progress, lesson plans, and payments

 

Driving Instructor Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a patient, enthusiastic Driving Instructor to join our team and provide practical and theoretical driving instruction to students of various ages and skill levels.

The Driving Instructor’s responsibilities will include planning and preparing lessons, teaching road traffic regulations, teaching practical driving techniques, and ultimately preparing students for their driving tests.

Our ideal candidate is an excellent communicator, has a positive attitude, and is dedicated to helping individuals gain the confidence and skills to drive safely and responsibly.

 

Responsibilities

• Planning and preparing lessons that meet individual student’s needs.
• Teaching driving laws and safety regulations.
• Teaching practical driving skills such as vehicle handling, clutch control, lane changing, and parking abilities.
• Using dual controls to take over when necessary.
• Preparing students for emergency and night driving.
• Assessing student learning and tailoring further lessons accordingly.
• Providing feedback to students about their progress and abilities.
• Preparing students for the driver’s license exam.

 

Qualifications

• Valid professional driving instructor’s license.
• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Excellent knowledge of local traffic laws and regulations.
• Excellent verbal communication skills.
• Good physical health and eyesight.
• Patience and the ability to remain calm in stressful driving situations.
• Ability to work with individuals of varying personalities and learning styles.
• Flexible work schedule to accommodate student’s needs.

 

Benefits

• Health insurance
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities
• Vehicle provided
• Work-life balance

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Driving Instructor
• Work Environment: Predominantly outdoors and on the road. Some office work may be required for administrative duties.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Driving School Manager.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $30,000 minimum to $45,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Driving Instructor Do?

Driving Instructors are certified professionals who teach individuals how to operate motor vehicles safely and confidently.

They work for driving schools or can operate as independent trainers, often specializing in teaching new drivers or those aiming to drive specific types of vehicles.

They begin with instructing students about traffic rules and regulations, car mechanics, and the importance of road safety.

They then proceed to practical lessons where they teach students how to control the vehicle, steer, change lanes, park, and handle various road conditions and situations.

Driving Instructors are also responsible for teaching defensive driving techniques and emergency response procedures.

They help students to understand and interpret traffic signals, signs, and road markings.

In addition to teaching driving skills, they observe students’ abilities, provide constructive feedback, and evaluate their readiness for driving tests.

They may also provide assistance in preparing for written or practical driving tests.

Furthermore, some Driving Instructors may offer advanced courses for experienced drivers, such as highway driving, night driving, or driving in adverse weather conditions.

Their ultimate goal is to ensure their students become responsible, confident, and safe drivers.

 

Driving Instructor Qualifications and Skills

A proficient Driving Instructor should possess a range of skills and qualifications that align with the job role, such as:

• A valid driver’s license and a clean driving record to set a good example for learners and ensure safety on the road.
• Excellent knowledge of traffic laws and regulations to teach students the necessary rules and guidelines for safe driving.
• Exceptional communication skills to effectively convey instructions and feedback to students of different ages and backgrounds.
• Strong interpersonal skills to build trust and rapport with students, fostering a calm and relaxed learning environment.
• Patience and understanding to deal with beginner drivers who may be nervous or make mistakes frequently.
• Ability to provide clear and constructive criticism to help students improve their driving skills and techniques.
• Excellent eyesight and quick reflexes to react appropriately and maintain safety during practical driving lessons.
• Strong problem-solving skills to identify and correct students’ weaknesses in driving techniques and knowledge of road rules.

 

Driving Instructor Experience Requirements

Driving instructors typically need to have several years of experience as a licensed driver before they can teach others.

This is to ensure they have sufficient experience on the road and are capable of handling various driving situations.

Before becoming a driving instructor, it is required to have at least 2 to 3 years of driving experience.

This experience should demonstrate a clean driving record, highlighting the individual’s responsibility and adherence to traffic rules and regulations.

Many driving instructors start their career as a part-time job or on a freelance basis, gaining experience by teaching family members, friends, or acquaintances how to drive.

Once they have a few years of instructing experience under their belt, they can progress to work for a driving school.

These schools often require their instructors to have at least 5 years of driving experience and a track record of successful student pass rates.

Further experience and specialization can lead to opportunities in teaching advanced driving skills like defensive driving, driving for the disabled, or instructing future commercial vehicle drivers.

Some driving instructors may also choose to enhance their career by taking roles in driver’s education program management or driver safety program coordination.

These roles often require significant experience, usually more than 10 years, in driving instruction or a related field.

 

Driving Instructor Education and Training Requirements

Driving Instructors typically need a high school diploma or equivalent.

They should also possess a valid driver’s license and must have a clean driving record with no traffic violations for a certain period, usually three to five years prior to application.

Potential instructors should complete a state-approved instructor training course, which often includes both classroom instruction and behind-the-wheel training.

After the completion of the training course, they need to pass a state certification exam that usually includes both a written test and a road test.

Some states may require instructors to have prior professional driving experience.

Additionally, CPR and first-aid certification are sometimes required as instructors need to ensure the safety of their students.

Continuing education or periodic recertification might be required in some states.

Although not required, many driving instructors pursue advanced certifications or training programs that focus on driver safety or teaching techniques to enhance their credentials and professional standing.

Knowledge of different types of vehicles (manual, automatic, trucks, motorcycles) can also be beneficial.

 

Driving Instructor Salary Expectations

A Driving Instructor can expect to earn an average salary of $46,876 (USD) per year.

The actual earnings can differ based on the instructor’s experience, the location of employment, and the driving school’s pay scale.

 

Driving Instructor Job Description FAQs

What skills does a driving instructor need?

Driving instructors should have excellent driving skills, including an in-depth knowledge of traffic laws and safety procedures.

They should be patient and have excellent communication skills to clearly explain driving techniques and safety precautions to students.

They must also have good observational skills to monitor students’ progress and identify areas that need improvement.

 

Do driving instructors need a degree?

Driving instructors don’t need a degree, but they must have a high school diploma or equivalent.

They must also complete a state-approved driver’s education course and obtain a driving instructor’s license.

To obtain the license, they may need to pass both written and practical driving tests.

Some states also require driving instructors to have a certain amount of driving experience.

 

What should you look for in a driving instructor resume?

A driving instructor resume should include a valid driving instructor’s license and a clean driving record.

They should have completed a recognized driver’s education course and have a certain amount of driving experience, as required by the state.

Additionally, look for experience in teaching or coaching, which indicates that they have the necessary skills to teach students effectively.

 

What qualities make a good driving instructor?

A good driving instructor is patient and calm, making students feel comfortable and confident behind the wheel.

They should be excellent communicators, capable of explaining complex driving techniques in a way that’s easy for students to understand.

Good driving instructors are also adaptable, adjusting their teaching methods to suit the learning style of each student.

 

Is it difficult to hire driving instructors?

The challenge in hiring driving instructors lies in finding candidates with the right balance of driving expertise, teaching skills, and patience to effectively coach new drivers.

It can also be difficult to find candidates with a clean driving record, which is often a requirement for this role.

However, offering competitive pay and flexible work hours can attract high-quality candidates.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we’ve revved up and taken an in-depth look at what it truly means to be a driving instructor.

Surprise, surprise?

It’s not just about teaching someone how to steer the wheel.

It’s about shaping safe and responsible drivers, one lesson at a time.

Now, with our reliable driving instructor job description template and real-world examples, you’re all geared up to make your move.

But don’t hit the brakes just yet!

Accelerate your journey with our job description generator. It’s your green light to creating precise job listings or fine-tuning your resume to perfection.

Remember:

Every driving lesson is a step towards safer roads.

Let’s create that future. Together.

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