DVSA Press Release
How good is your driving instructor?
Learner drivers and their parents will be able to make a more informed decision when choosing a driving instructor thanks to changes being introduced by the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA). A simpler and clearer grading structure for instructors will help learners and their parents to identify the best instructors and allow them to understand what level of tuition they will get.
All qualified driving instructors are checked at least once every four years to ensure that they continue to meet the required standards. From 7 April 2014, when instructors are assessed they will be given one of the following grades:
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This replaces the current structure that is made up of six grades ranging from grade 1 to grade 6, with grade 6 being the highest, which is not well understood by customers. The move is part of a series of changes aimed at modernising the driver training industry.
The agency is also updating the way it conducts checks on instructors. A new ‘standards check’ will better asses instructors on how well they meet the National Standard for driver and rider training, and how their instruction helps people learn effectively.
DVSA Chief Executive, Alastair Peoples, said:
“The new standards check will enable qualified driving instructors to better demonstrate their competence to deliver effective training. A high level of tuition can make a real difference in helping new drivers to become safe and responsible and the grading structure will make it easier for learners and parents to identify the best instructors”.
“Most driving instructors are grade 4 on the current structure, which means that they have demonstrated sufficient competence to remain on the register. I want all instructors to strive to achieve the new A grade.