Whether you’re 17 or 40, learning to drive is a big deal, which is why it’s so important to choose the right driving instructor. It isn’t as easy as you might think, there are lots of things to consider before you pay someone to teach you this important skill. With tons of driving instructors available, you will find the right one for you, as long as you follow these useful tips:
Start Right
The first step is research, research, research! Start with your friends and family – ask them who they used to help them learn to drive, why they would recommend them and how much their services were. And if they didn’t like a particular company, ask them why that was. Next look on social media and message forums, read what people your age are saying about driving instructors and companies. Pay particular attention to an instructor or companies response to any complaints they have received. Everyone makes mistakes, but it’s how a company responds to those mistakes that makes them reputable or worthy of avoiding.
It’s Good To Talk!
If you find a company you’re interested in, don’t be afraid to speak to the company or instructor on the phone. This is a good way to get a feel for the instructor and whether or not you’re likely to get on with them. It can also be a good idea to take advantage of a trial price lesson or free lesson if offered, as you have nothing to lose and will get a real interaction with the instructor who will be teaching you.
Check They Are Qualified
Driving instructors (unless it’s your Mum or Dad!) needs to be Approved Driving Instructors which you might see listed as ADI on their website. You should expect the car used to teach you to have a DSA (Driving Standards Agency) badge displayed. They will also have a DSA grading which is a grade 6 at the highest. If the instructor has a grade lower than a 6 it doesn’t mean they are bad, it may just mean they are still working their way up or have chosen not to invest in progress tests. The most important thing for you to ensure is that your driving instructor Oxford (or local to you) is qualified.
Look For Great Deals
The amount you’re paying to learn to drive matters, because you might be paying that hourly rate twice a week for over a year depending on your learning progress. Learning to drive should be seen as an investment, however there are still great deals to take advantage of. Most driving instructors sell hourly lessons at the highest price and then batches of lessons at a reduced price. So if you’re happy with your instructor and know you’re going to be learning with them for the foreseeable future, take advantage of special offers and save some money.
Does The Pass Rate Matter?
Lots of people look for a driving instructor with a high pass rate, however, pass rates can be highly circumstantial and aren’t black and white. Pass rates may not include drivers who passed their test second or third time, and may be calculated only including learners who passed within a certain amount of time. So don’t make a decision based solely on pass rate as it doesn’t necessarily guarantee a good or bad instructor.
The Car
Professional driving instructors will teach you in a car with dual controls – if they don’t have a car with dual controls, don’t learn with them as they won’t be able to take over if you lose control of the vehicle. The car you learn in doesn’t really matter as long as it’s in good condition, has dual controls and is adjustable to your comfort levels. However, if you already have a car you will be driving once you have passed, it may be worth opting for a driving instructor with a car that is close to the one you plan to drive after passing.
Remember, there is a lot of choice available for you out there so you’re bound to find the perfect instructor for you if you do your research and ask questions. Good luck!