Qualifying as a Driving Instructor

Pro-Scot's success-based training formula develops all the key skills required to not only pass all three parts of the qualifying process but to also become a successful instructor.

ProScot’s Driving Instructor Training builds on what you’re doing correctly - not what you’re doing wrong, building confidence while developing your skills.

To qualify as a driving instructor, there are three tests which you must pass but, first, you must be able to satisfy the eligibility and legal requirements.

Part 1 - Theory Test

Part 1 covers areas such as driving principles, legal issues, instructional techniques and vehicle maintenance. The Theory Test consists of 100 multiple-choice questions and a hazard perception test. There’s no limit to the number of attempts you can have to pass the Part 1 Theory Test.

We’ll provide you with training materials to assist you with the Hazard Perception Test and also advise you on the books you may consider purchasing. If you don’t have access to computer equipment, this is available in our computer suite or you can attend one of our Theory Classes.

Part 2 - Driving Ability

In the Part 2 test, the examiner assesses your ability to drive to a consistently high standard, showing a high degree of car control and roadcraft. The test lasts approximately 1 hour and covers a wide variety of road and traffic conditions. You must score no more than 6 minor faults - over 6 minor faults or a serious or dangerous fault will result in a fail. A maximum of three attempts is allowed for Part 2.

For your Part 2 training and test, you have the option of using your own vehicle or one of the ProScot vehicles. All training can be conducted on either a 1:1 bespoke ratio or on our 2:1 co-trainer option, with each training session followed by a debrief.. The amount of hours required for Part 2 training varies from individual to individual, approximately 16 hours is average.

Part 3 - Instructional ability

Part 3 is a test of your instructional ability and has been developed to ensure you can train a student from novice standard right through to test standard.

This test lasts approximately 1 hour and is split into two 30-minute phases. In the first phase, the examiner role-plays a pupil in the early stages of learning to drive. In the second phase, the examiner role-plays a pupil in the later stages of learning to drive or a full licence holder who needs further training. Your overall aim is to improve the ‘pupil’ by correctly identifying, analysing and remedying their driving faults.

ProScot training for Part 3 consists of a mix of practical exercises and theory study. During this part of the course, your trainer continually assesses your ability to teach and communicate and plans your training accordingly.

All training can be conducted on either a 1:1 bespoke ratio or on our 2:1 co-trainer option. The number of hours required for Part III varies from individual to individual, approximately 40 hours of training is average.

Trainee Licence - Earn while you learn

Once you’ve passed the Part 2 test, and completed 40 hours of Part III training, to help you prepare for the Part 3 test of instructional ability, it’s possible to take out a Trainee Licence to instruct for a 6-month period.

At ProScot, we don’t feel that this is the best option, although we’re always happy to discuss the merits of holding a Trainee Licence on an individual basis.