How To Start A Driving School

Do you have the patience of a saint? And nerves of steel? Have you got what it takes to become one of the country’s most required roles and start your own driving school? 

1: Pros and Cons
2: Qualifications
4. Choose your business structure and registering your business
5: How much can I earn? And startup costs
6: Create your business plan
7: Research
8. Marketing and Branding
9. Red tape
10. Conclusion

Teaching someone to drive is not just guiding them through another of life’s tests, you will be changing their lives.  A driving licence opens up new prospects and greater independence. Not only for them but their families, friends and employers. 

Join over 38,000 driving instructors teaching the nation how to drive and yourself on the road to success!

Becoming a driving instructor isn´t plain sailing but it is hugely rewarding and in great demand. Many of the country’s 400 driving test centres have very long waiting times, with around 4,000 new 17 year olds, potentially wanting to start their driving lessons every single day! If you can communicate well with your pupils and put them at ease you are never going to be out of a job. 

• Potential Annual Revenue: £25-45,000
• Startup Cost: £1,500-£3,000 for training.
• Time To Revenue: 4-6+ months 
• Annual Market Growth Rate:  %
• Best for: Patient, hard working, calm entrepreneurs with great communication skills!
  

Before you fasten your seatbelt, here are some pros and cons to keep in mind:

5 Great Reasons to Start a Driving School

• Job Satisfaction: Helping individuals learn a valuable life skill can be very rewarding. Seeing your students progress and eventually become competent drivers can be highly rewarding. 
• Flexible Hours: Many driving instructors have the flexibility to set their own schedules. The majority of instructors work between 25 hours and 34 hours 
• Job Stability: As long as people continue to drive, there will be a demand for driving instructors. As previously mentioned 4,000 teenagers turn 17 everyday. 
• Variety in Work: Each student is unique, and the job offers diversity in terms of personalities, skill levels, and backgrounds. This variety can make the job interesting and engaging.
• Meeting People: Running a driving school allows you to become an active part of your community. You can establish connections with local residents, schools, and businesses, contributing positively to the community.

6 Common Challenges when Starting a Driving School

• Certification Requirements: Becoming a certified driving instructor often requires meeting specific educational and licensing requirements, which can involve time and money.
• High Responsibility: Teaching someone to drive involves a significant amount of responsibility. Instructors must ensure that their students are safe, knowledgeable and well-prepared for the road.
• Stressful at Times: Dealing with nervous or difficult students, especially during driving lessons, can be stressful. Instructors need to stay calm and patient in various situations.
• Sitting: You are always in the car and can be for many hours without a break. Many driving instructors experience ongoing back and leg issues. 
• Variable Income: Income can be inconsistent. The summer and winter months are quieter. Bad weather also plays a part. 
• Risk of Accidents: There is an inherent risk of accidents during driving lessons, even if instructors are vigilant. Accidents can have legal and emotional consequences.

From registering your company, establishing your brand to marketing your services, we’ll cover everything you need to know to help you turn your entrepreneurial skills into a successful and busy business.