How To Become A Driving Instructor: The Requirements

Driving instructors are responsible for training people to safely operate a motor vehicle. If you are thinking about becoming a professional driving instructor and work for a driving school, then we have everything you need to know to begin your journey.

What Is A Driving Instructor?

When it comes to driving instructors, they are professionals who teach people how to operate motor vehicles. Depending on the state you live, many first-time drivers have to meet a requirement of hours behind the wheel with a professional driving instructor. In California, that time is six hours. During that time, these driving instructors will be teaching a variety of techniques to make you a better driver.

Requirement To Become A Driving Instructor

To become a professional driving instructor, you must first become licensed in the state you intend to work in. Of course, those licensing requirements vary from state to state. Here is what you need to submit when applying for a driving instructor license in California (where Coastline Academy's headquarters is located):

• Application for Driver Instructor and All-Terrain Vehicle Safety Instructor License (OL 161)
• Driving School Instructor Occupational Licensing Application (OL 203)
• Doctor's Health Report (DL 546)
• Live scan fingerprint
• Valid California driver license in the license class you want to instruct
• Driving school instructor examination
• Certificate of Course Completion (60 hours)
• Proof of high school graduation or equivalent

Once all these forms are completed, then you can schedule an appointment at your local DMV office to submit your paperwork and fees and take a written examination, which will cover traffic laws, safe driving practices, operation of motor vehicles, knowledge of teaching methods and techniques, first aid and regulations for teaching students under 18.

Coastline Academy Instructors

If applying for one of the job openings here at Coastline Academy, know that we have our own requirements for driving instructors:

• must be at least 21 years of age
• a genuine passion for helping people learn
• a calm and patient approach
• an interest in teaching students of all ages
• motivated and excited by the idea of connecting with new people
• a clean, valid driver's license
• ability to pass a background check and drug screen

If hired at Coastline, we offer comprehensive training to each of our instructors. We will help you become a DMV-licensed instructor and cover the cost of doing so. Also, we may all be working remotely, but we are also building a community of instructors who can help and guide each other.

If you have any questions or concerns, please reach out to our friendly support staff. If you are interested in applying for a driving instructor position, check out our job openings here!