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:
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 Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) 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.
Learner drivers can check that their instructor is qualified to teach by looking for the green DVSA certificate that should be displayed in the instructor’s windscreen. A pink licence signifies a trainee instructor who is gaining on-road experience during the qualifying process.
Before qualifying all instructors have to pass a series of tests and undergo a criminal records check to make sure that they are competent and safe to teach. Standards checks provide assurance that these standards are maintained.
You can find out more about national standards here.
DVSA is the new agency formed by the merger of the Driving Standards Agency and Vehicle & Operator Services Agency