Is Driving instructors job, Worth it whilst retraining?

Posted by Admirable_Ad_3422@reddit | AskUK | View on Reddit | 13 comments

I (40M) hate my retail management job and am seriously looking at retraining, probably part time/ evening in something like therapy/counselling etc. In order to keep bills paid etc, I’m considering training to be a driving instructor for the 4-5 years needed to get the necessary qualifications . Is there anyone with any thoughts / advice? Would love to hear from anyone doing/done the same

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13 Comments

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Minute-Employ-4964@reddit

My mums been a driving instructor for years. Good pay, she could choose her own hours, and whilst she was healthy she was doing well. She had a constant supply of 17 year olds due to our big family though. So she never had to advertise or anything like that to get students.

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Admirable_Ad_3422@reddit (OP)

Think I would go with one of the big schools, AA , BSM, at least initially. I live in a Uni town, lots of colleges etc, so not too concerned about the demand. Doing retail I’m used to late nights, etc, have a good work ethic, but need the flexibility for study/ childcare etc

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Minute-Employ-4964@reddit

Then yeh I’d say go for it. 35 hour work week with average salary of £52k according to Google. If that’s better than what you’re on now then it’s an easy choice boss

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Morazma@reddit

If you want to spend a lot of time with teenagers then it could be a good path for you

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Ok-Boat-5001@reddit

I was in training, completed the ADI theory & the practical. When it came to teaching training part I realised it wasn’t for me. Having to be constantly alert, dealing with other drivers on the road, the cost of petrol rising…etc

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CyclingBrit@reddit

Ive had 2 friends go down the drive instructor route in the last 2 or 3 years. Once they'd trained up, neither lasted more than 12 months at it. Both of them cited really long days. Lots of waiting around and sitting in the car as it wasnt cost efficient to return home between lessons etc. and in general, they didnt make anything like the £ that they needed for the time it demanded.

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Admirable_Ad_3422@reddit (OP)

Guess I could fit some studying /reading in between lessons to remain productive.

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CyclingBrit@reddit

yeah, your experience may vary of course. A lot might depend on how close your target area is to your home too. Lots of variables.

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PM_ME_BEEF_CURTAINS@reddit

It takes at least 6 months (usually closer to 2 years) to qualify https://www.gov.uk/become-car-driving-instructor

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Admirable_Ad_3422@reddit (OP)

I know, hoping to step down to a non-management role in the meantime to keep some money coming in.

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catmadwoman@reddit

In the 80s my friends had already passed her advanced driving test and quite literally got a job as a driving instructor with a local well known company. She even got a job with a national driving school. So things have changed (other than waiting to pass advanced test?

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YQB123@reddit

My old General Manager at a restaurant went that exact route. Took him maybe 1-2 years and he was working as a GM the whole time until he was qualified. He loves it now though. Is his own Boss. Chooses his own schedule/clients. Don't have to deal with the general public. And says he makes good money too.

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