Overview
How to become a driving instructor in Richmond
To become a driving instructor in Richmond, you'll need to pass three DVSA assessments — known as Part 1, Part 2, and Part 3. Most people complete the full qualification in 6 to 12 months, depending on how much time they can dedicate to training. The total cost typically sits between £2,000 and £3,000, including test fees and instructor training hours.
Get a free info pack
Not ready to sign up? We'll send you a breakdown of costs, timelines, and next steps for becoming an instructor in Richmond.
No spam, no commitment. Unsubscribe anytime.
The Qualification
4 steps to your ADI badge
Part 1
Theory Test
100 multiple-choice questions plus hazard perception. Pass mark: 85/100.
Full guidePart 2
Driving Ability
60-minute advanced driving assessment with a DVSA examiner.
Full guidePart 3
Instructional Ability
Teach a real pupil while observed against 17 competencies.
Full guideTrainee Licence
Start Teaching
Start teaching under supervision before passing Part 3.
Full guideWhy This Career
Why become a driving instructor in Richmond?
As a driving instructor in Richmond, you're self-employed from day one. That means no commute to an office, no fixed hours, and no salary cap. Experienced ADIs in the area regularly earn £38,000–£50,000 a year, with the best clearing £55,000+.
No Franchise Needed
How DrivePro helps you qualify and succeed
What sets DrivePro apart is that we're not a franchise. We don't take a cut of your lessons, we don't put our branding on your car, and we don't lock you into a multi-year contract. We're a platform that gives trainee and qualified instructors in Richmond the tools to build their own business on their own terms.
900+ Theory Questions
Full Part 1 mock exams with timed tests, band-by-band practice, and progress tracking.
ORDIT Trainer Matching
We connect you with approved trainers in your area for Part 2 and Part 3 in-car training.
Diary Management
Once qualified, manage your entire teaching schedule from one calendar.
Card Payments
Take pupil payments via Stripe — no more chasing cash or bank transfers.
Tax & Expenses
Track mileage, expenses, and income. Built for HMRC Making Tax Digital.
Pupil Bookings
Your own online booking page where pupils find and book lessons directly.
Your Training
How training works with DrivePro
DrivePro takes a different approach to training. Instead of signing you up to a franchise programme, we connect you directly with independent ORDIT trainers in Greater London who deliver high-quality, one-to-one instruction. You use DrivePro's tools to prepare for theory, track your hours, and transition to running your own business.
After Qualifying
What happens when you qualify
Most new ADIs face a choice: join a franchise for £100–£150 per week, or go independent and figure it out yourself. DrivePro removes that dilemma. You get better tools than any franchise provides, at a fraction of the cost, and you've been using the platform since your training started.
Common Questions