Professional driving instructors
When you learn to drive, you have the choice who teaches you. The majority of people decide to learn through a professional driving instructor and often through a major school of motoring.
This is not strictly necessary, because as long as the person teaching you is over 21 and has held a full British licence for three years or more then it is not mandatory. However, it is recommended because the professional driving instructor does it for a living and has the expertise and know how if they are a good instructor to ensure your safety and that you learn exactly what you need to so that you are a safe driver and fully prepared when it comes to taking your test.
Although there is a significant cost for driving lessons, finding a good instructor will make your lessons more enjoyable, go at the pace that is right for you, and make you a confident and good driver as a result.
Anyone who gives driving lessons for payment has to be registered with the DSA which is the Driving Standards Agency, and they will display an ADI - approved driving instructor - identification certificate on the windscreen of the car that you learn in. There are examinations of a high standard in place in order to become an ADI, so again this should give you the security that you are learning in good hands.
In terms of choosing a professional driving instructor, there are many ways to do this. Some will go for a major school of motoring, whilst others will research driving instructors that perhaps use the same vehicle that they will be driving once they have passed their test (either a car you have bought for when you pass the test or perhaps a parents car that you will be able to use once you have passed).
For many, word of mouth recommendation from friends is what will sway you one way or the other. Ultimately it is a personal choice who you decide to have lessons with - but whoever you choose, good luck and enjoy your driving!
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