Find a DVSA Approved Driving Instructor (ADI)
Before
Lessons
Tests
Passed
Looking for a qualified driving instructor? You need an ADI — a DVSA-approved driving instructor who’s passed all the tests to teach learners safely and legally. Here’s how to check their credentials, understand their status, and find one near you.
DVLA or DVSA — Who's Who?
It’s easy to get mixed up, but here’s the key difference:
DVSA (Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency) handles driving instructors, driving tests, and learner rules.
DVLA (Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency) deals with driving licences, number plates, and vehicle records.
So if you’re searching for a driving instructor, you need the DVSA — not the DVLA.
What’s an ADI?
ADI stands for Approved Driving Instructor. These are fully qualified professionals who have:
- Passed all DVSA exams.
- Completed enhanced criminal background checks.
- Met high DVSA teaching standards.
They display a green badge on their windscreen so you know they’re legit.
What is a PDI?
PDI means Potential Driving Instructor. They’re partway through their training and have permission to teach learners.
They display a pink badge and are legally allowed to give lessons, often while preparing for their final ADI tests.
PDI means Potential Driving Instructor. They’re still training, but they are legally allowed to teach learners and charge for lessons.
They display a pink badge, and are usually preparing for their final tests to become an ADI.
ADI vs PDI — What's the Difference?
| Feature | ADI (Approved) | PDI (In training) |
|---|---|---|
Badge colour | Green | Pink |
Fully qualified | Yes | Not yet |
Can teach learners alone | Yes | Yes |
Completed DVSA exams | All | Still in training |
Added to ADI register | Yes | No |
How to find an ADI near you
Use the official DVSA Find a Driving Instructor tool. It shows:
- Only DVSA-approved ADIs (PDIs aren’t listed).
- Distance from your postcode.
- Contact details (email, phone).
- Whether they’ve signed up for CPD and the ADI Code of Practice.
Note: Being listed is voluntary. Not all ADIs are shown — but the ones who appear have chosen to be open and easy to contact.
Check the official ADI Register
Only DVSA-approved ADIs appear on this list — with their contact details, grade, and whether they’ve signed up to CPD or the ADI Code of Practice. Not all instructors are listed (it’s optional), but it’s a good place to start.
Search the DVSA Instructors RegisterWhat if an ADI doesn’t show CPD or ADI Code of Practice?
No problem — not all great instructors sign up.
- CPD (Continuing Professional Development) = They’re doing extra training.
- ADI Code of Practice = They’ve signed up to a voluntary code of behaviour.
If they’re missing, it doesn’t mean they’re bad — but if they’re present, it’s a bonus.
Understanding Grades: ADI standards check
All ADIs are assessed regularly by DVSA examiners.
What the grades mean:
- Grade A — High standard of instruction.
- Grade B — Meets national standard.
- Fail — Needs improvement or risks removal from the register.
Tip: You can ask your instructor what grade they are — it’s public info.
Booking driving lessons: What to ask
Before you commit, get clear on the basics:
- What car do you teach in?
- Manual or automatic?
- When are you available?
- What’s your cancellation policy?
- How far ahead do I need to book?
Tip: If you’re also practising with family, ask whether the instructor is happy to guide your private practice too — for example, by suggesting what to focus on between lessons.
Want to check your instructor is registered?
Use the DVSA Instructor Register tool to:
- Confirm your instructor is on the ADI register.
- Check if they’ve committed to CPD or the ADI Code of Practice.
- See how close they are to you.
Reminder: Only ADIs show up here — PDIs aren’t listed.
Thinking about private practice too?
If you’re also planning to learn with family or friends, make sure your instructor is on board.
They can advise what to practise and make your lessons go further.
Read more in our Supervised Driving Guide.
Summary
Choosing the right instructor is a big step — and the DVSA register is where you start.
Whether you go with an ADI or PDI, make sure they’re legal, supportive, and a good fit for how you want to learn.
Your lessons should be safe, focused — and with someone who helps you improve every time you drive.