Difference between ADI and PDI Driving Instructor

If you’re looking for a driving instructor in the UK, you might come across two terms: PDI (Potential Driving Instructor) and ADI (Approved Driving Instructor).

Although both are capable of training beginner drivers but there are significant differences.. Understanding these distinctions can help you choose the right instructor.

What is a PDI (Potential Driving Instructor)?

A PDI driving instructor is a person undergoing training to become a fully licensed driving teacher is known as a Potential Driving teacher (PDI). They have completed the first two parts of the ADI qualification process but they have not yet passed the final exam.

What is a PDI qualified to do?

A PDI driving instructor can legally give driving lessons, but only under a trainee licence issued by the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA). This licence allows them to gain real-world teaching experience before attempting their final qualification test. PDIs are required to have a pink badge visible on their windscreen at the time of training beginner driver.

What is an ADI (Approved Driving Instructor)?

A driving instructor who has successfully completed all three parts of the ADI test procedure and registered with the DVSA is known as an Approved Driving Instructor (ADI).

What is an ADI qualified to do?

An ADI driving instructor is fully certified to teach learners and help them prepare for their driving test. Unlike a PDI, they have passed all qualification tests, including instructional ability assessments.

ADIs place a green badge on their windscreen at the time of training beginner driver.

What is the Instructional Ability Test?

The Instructional Ability Test (Part 3 of the ADI qualification) assesses how well a PDI can teach. It covers:

1. Lesson planning
2. Risk management
3. Teaching and communication skills

PDIs need to pass this test to become an ADI.

Finding The Right Instructor For You

Ultimately, finding the right instructor involves considering your learning style, budget, and what you hope to achieve from your driving lessons.

Whether you choose an ADI or a PDI, ensure they display the appropriate badge to guarantee a legal and quality learning experience.

Find a Driving Instructor

To find a driving instructor near you, consider searching online for local driving schools or checking with friends and family for recommendations. Make sure your instructor is either an ADI or a PDI with the related badge displayed on their vehicle.

FAQ

Q1. Which is better for learning to drive: PDI or ADI?

An ADI has more experience and has passed all qualification tests, making them a safer choice. However, PDIs can still provide good lessons, especially under supervision.

Q2. Why do some choose PDI driving instructors over ADI?

PDIs are often keen to gain experience and may offer lower lesson prices than fully qualified ADIs.

Q3. How can you tell apart a PDI from an ADI?

Check the badge displayed in their windscreen:

1. Pink badge = PDI (trainee)
2. Green badge = ADI (fully qualified)

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