Get a criminal record check to become a driving instructor

Get a criminal record check if you’re applying to become an approved driving instructor (ADI) for the first time.

You cannot use one you have already - you must get a new one.

Use a different service to get a criminal record check if you’re applying to:

Before you start

Check if you can become a driving instructor before you apply.

It costs £5.40 to apply. You can pay with a debit or credit card.

You’ll need to provide documents to prove your identity, for example:

  • your passport
  • your driving licence
  • a utility bill that’s less than 3 months old
  • a bank statement that’s less than 3 months old

Apply online

Start now

What you need to know

If you cannot verify your identity online, the service will tell you how to do this at a Post Office. It costs £12 to verify your identity at a Post Office.

If you need help with your application, contact Complete Background Screening (CBS).

What happens next

Your criminal record check will be sent to you by post.

If your record contains criminal information, DVSA will also contact you.

This page is Part of Become a car driving instructor: step by step

  1. Step 1 Check if you can become an instructor

    1. Check if the role is right for you on the Safe Driving for Life website
    2. Check you're eligible to become a driving instructor
    3. Find out about the skills and knowledge you need

  2. Step 2 Apply to become a driving instructor

    You must get a new Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check to start your application, even if you already have one.

    1. You are currently viewing: Get a DBS check

    You need to agree to the responsibilities set out in the 'ADI register guide' before you apply.

    1. Read about driving instructor responsibilities
    1. Start your application

  3. Step 3 Get a trainer

    Get a registered trainer to help you prepare for the 3 qualifying tests.

    1. Find driving instructor training courses

  4. Step 4 Take the theory test (ADI part 1)

    1. Revise and practise for your test
    2. What you need for your test
    3. Find a theory test centre
    4. Book your test £81

    Once you've passed the theory test, you must pass the other parts of the test within 2 years or you'll have to start the whole process again.

  5. Step 5 Take the driving ability test (ADI part 2)

    1. What happens during the test
    2. What you need for your test
    3. Find a driving test centre
    4. Book your test £111

  6. Step 6 Get practice teaching

    If you’ve passed ADI part 2 you have the option to apply for a 6 month trainee licence to get experience teaching students.

    1. Find out about trainee instructor licences
    2. Apply for a trainee instructor licence £140

  7. Step 7 Take the instructional ability test (ADI part 3)

    1. What happens during the test
    2. What you need for your test
    3. Find a driving test centre
    4. Book your test £111

  8. Step 8 Register and start working as an instructor

    Once you've passed the tests you must register within 12 months.

    1. Register for your first ADI certificate £300

    When you have your certificate you can start charging for lessons. You can either:

    You'll have at least one standards check every 4 years. You also need to renew your registration and get a new DBS check every 4 years.

    1. Find out about ADI standards checks
    2. Renew your registration £300
    3. Improve your skills as an instructor