Become a Self-Employed Driving Instructor

Are Driving Instructors Self-Employed?

The short answer is: Yes, many driving instructors are self-employed, but it’s not a universal situation.

Not all driving instructors are necessarily self-employed. While the majority of driving instructors are self-employed, there are other employment models too.

Some driving instructors work for driving schools or larger organizations as employees.

These instructors typically have a regular salary and may get benefits like paid holiday leave and health insurance, etc.

Do You Have to Be Self-Employed as a Driving Instructor?

The great news is that you don’t have to be self-employed to work as a driving instructor.

Most driving schools hire instructors on a self-employed basis because it allows the schools to offer a wider range of flexible working hours and gives instructors more autonomy.

So, you’re not locked into self-employment, but it’s certainly a path worth considering if you like the idea of managing your own business and setting your own schedule.

Things to Be Aware of as a Self-Employed Driving Instructor

It’s not all about teaching people how to parallel park; you’ll also be in charge of managing the business side of things.

Here are some things to consider before you make the leap:

1. Self-Assessment Tax Return

Yes, they do. As a self-employed driving instructor, you’ll need to complete a self-assessment tax return every year.

This is something to plan for because it can feel like a bit of a task if you’re not used to dealing with taxes

2. Set Lesson Prices

If you’re independent, you can fix what works best for you and your market. You don’t want to price yourself out of business, but you also don’t want to undervalue your expertise.

3. Pension

Unfortunately, self-employed driving instructors don’t typically get a company pension. That said, you can set up your own pension scheme as part of your business planning.

Advantages of Being a Self-Employed Driving Instructor

Okay, so you’re starting to understand the realities of self-employment as a driving instructor. Let’s take a look at some of the major perks of going solo in this field.

1. Flexibility: As a self-employed instructor, you can choose your hours and workload. Want to work mornings only? Perfect. Need a long weekend off? No problem. Your schedule is entirely up to you.
2. Independence: Being your own boss means making the big decisions—about your rates, the hours you work, and the clients you take on. It’s a real sense of freedom.
3. Earning Potential: Without a salary cap, your earning potential is as high as you want to make it. You’ll need to work hard, but the more clients you can take on, the more you’ll earn.
4. Job Satisfaction: Helping someone pass their driving test is incredibly rewarding. There’s a sense of accomplishment in knowing that you played a role in someone’s life milestone.
5. Autonomy: You’re in charge of your business. No office politics, no boss breathing down your neck. It’s all up to you.

How to Become a Self-Employed Driving Instructor?

It’s not as complicated as it sounds, but there are a few steps you’ll need to take to get on the road as a self-employed driving instructor.

Becoming a Goodluck Driving School Instructor

One way to go is by joining a driving school, such as Goodluck Driving School. Joining a driving school can give you a head start by providing the resources and branding of an established company while still allowing you to be self-employed.

How Much Does It Cost to Become a Driving Instructor?

The cost of becoming a driving instructor varies. You’ll need to pay for a few things, including:

1. The required training and tests (the DVSA will need to assess your driving skills).
2. Insurance (you’ll need instructor insurance to teach students).
3. Vehicle costs (whether you buy your own or lease one, the car is a big part of the investment).

Claim Business Expenses as a Driving Instructor?

Yes, absolutely. As a self-employed driving instructor, you can claim business expenses such as your car costs (fuel, maintenance), insurance, course materials, advertising, and even some home office expenses.

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