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MOT to Remain at 3 Years

In 2015 the Chancellor of the Exchequer suggested that the MOT on new vehicles could be extended to 4 years.

It went out to consultation and the decision was to leave it at 3 years to protect road safety.

* Most of those responding to the consultation were against the proposals on safety grounds, arguing that the savings to motorists were outweighed by the risk to road users and the test often highlights upcoming issues affecting the vehicle. A public survey for DfT by Populus also showed fewer than half of people were in favour of the change.

Roads Minister Jesse Norman said:

We have some of the safest roads in the world, and are always looking at ways of making them safer.

Although modern cars are better built and safer than when the MOT test was last changed 50 years ago, there has been a clear public concern that any further changes don’t put people’s lives at risk.

We are looking at further research to ensure the MOT test evolves with the demands of modern motoring.

By law, all vehicles must be roadworthy, regardless of whether they have passed an MOT, and the content of the tests will not be changed.

The test was introduced in 1960, requiring vehicles to undergo a first check after 10 years. It was changed in 1967 to 3 years.

In 2016 (the most recent figures available), more than 2.4 million cars had their first MOT test, which costs owners a maximum of £54.85. The pass rate was about 85% and the most common reasons for failure include lighting, tyres and braking faults.

Changing the time period until the first test would have saved motorists more than £100 million a year. 

 

 

*information sourced from .gov website

 

 

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No More Credit Card Fees

No more credit or debit card fees in Europe from 2018

From January 13 2018 companies across the European Union will be banned from charging any fees for credit or debit card payments. This new Legislation will remain Law after we leave the EU as it is already implemented into UK Law

What does this mean?

Basically companies can no longer add a charge to your payment as a “Credit Card Fee”.

Up until 13th January companies were not allowed to make any money on the fee, but they could pass the charge onto the customer, this has all now changed.

The main culprits were the travel companies, airlines such as Ryanair used to charge a fee for paying by credit card, this is no longer allowed.

That’s good news right?

Maybe not!  Instead of implementing a credit card fee, many companies are imposing an “Admin Fee”, but instead of just charging the people that paid by credit card, this fee may be implemented across the board!  So now everyone may have to pay extra!

So whilst you can now wave the plastic without the dreaded Credit Card Processing Fee, beware of the “Admin Fee”

The good news is that Be A Driving Instructor don’t charge any fees, credit card or admin fee, there is no small print!

Get in touch with us on 01253 899909 to discuss the way forward – without the fees!

 

       

 

 

 

 

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New Part 3 Test

The new ADI Part 3 Test is underway, and looks like people who have been lurking in the shadows holding back for the new test have jumped into the sunlight and snaffled up all the Part 3 test dates. Waiting times have increased from weeks to months.

From October to December 2017 there was a period of uncertainty as the Part 3 Test was delayed and many trainees, who had been trained under the new Standard Check System were holding back for the new test, it was very frustrating for them to wait most of the year for the “Autumn” date, to find the 2nd October date was put back to 4th December and then back even more so to the end of December.  It doesn’t instil confidence into the industry they are moving into!

Some of our Trainees decided to put their training on hold until a definite date was in place and others opted for the Trainee Licence route.

I feel sorry for any PDI who takes their “live learner” to test to get a “fail”.  It doesn’t instil any confidence into the Learner that they have chosen a competent instructor, so choose your learner wisely, make sure you get excellent training, more importantly don’t rush in, get plenty of practice and make sure you are ready!

 

 

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ADIT

Be A Driving Instructor is proud to be a member of the Association of Driving Instructor Trainers (ADIT).

ADIT are a group of independent Driving Schools and Trainers throughout the country that are looking for Qualified ADI’s or people looking to join the Industry as Approved Driving Instructors.

With top class training and placements within their already established driving schools you can be assured of the best possible solution to your training requirements.

For full details on the ADIT please click here.

So if you are considering becoming and ADI and looking for a trainer you can visit ADIT for a list of providers throughout the country.

If you are already an instructor and looking to change to a local driving school, without the tie-in of a lengthy contract or lower franchise fees you can see what options are available to you.

 

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Part 2 Test

The Part 2 of the ADI Test is the Check of your Driving ability

Click here to watch  the DVSA Video about the test so you know what to expect

ADI Part 2

The Part 2 test for driving instructors is very similar to the standard learner driver test. As with the learner test, at the start you will be required to read a clean and stationary car number plate.

Each Show Me Tell Me questions you get incorrect, you will receive a minor fault. The duration of the ADI Part 2 test lasts longer than a standard learner driver test at around one hour due to more manoeuvres and varying road types. More manoeuvres than the standard L-test will be requested, if not all possible manoeuvres.

These will include the turn in the road, left reverse around a corner, right corner reverse, reverse parallel parking and possibly bay parking if bay facilities are available at the test centre or a test centre close by. You will also be required to demonstrate independent driving. Independent driving will take approximately 10 minutes and you will be required to follow either road signs or directions in the form of a basic map from the examiner. It may also be a combination of both.

Unlike the L-test with 15 minor faults, the ADI Part 2 will only be allowed a maximum of 6 minor faults. The test will be spread over varying road conditions and environments to include busy town roundabouts, one-way systems, country roads, dual carriageways and motorways. In order to successfully pass the Part 2 test, you must satisfy the examiner that you can:

  • Expertly demonstrate handling of the car controls
  • Follow road procedures safely and correctly
  • Anticipate the actions of other road users, taking the appropriate action and in
    sufficient time
  • Demonstrate a sound judgment of distance and appropriate speed
  • Give consideration to other road users and demonstrate a safe level of driving
  • Abide by the Highway Code

What to bring to ADI Part 2 test

You must take along to your ADI Part 2 test:

  • your ADI Part 1 test certificate
  • your valid Great Britain or Northern Ireland driving licence, plus a valid passport if you have the old-style paper licence
  • a suitable car for the test to be conducted in

ADI Part 2 car requirements

The ADI Part 2 car requirements are as follows:

  • Fully insured, taxed and a valid MOT if applicable
  • Road worthy (tyres, windscreen / wiper condition, seat belts etc)
  • Car must be right-hand steering
  • Must be a hard-top saloon, hatchback or estate car
  • Car must be of typical performance for its type
  • Car must have fully adjustable front passenger seat, seat belts and head restraints
  • If you have a manual licence you can take the test in either a manual or automatic car. You’ll be able to train people in both types of car when you’ve qualified.
  • Car must not be displaying L plates or D plates in Wales
  • Car must not be fitted with a space saver tyre

Take along a adjustable interior rear view mirror for use of the driving examiner. Hire cars are permitted providing it meets with the above rules and is fitted with dual controls. If the above rules are not met, the examiner will terminate the test and you will lose the test fee.

Automatic ADI Part 2 test

An automatic car can be used for the ADI Part 2 test if:

  • you have an automatic licence you must take the test in an automatic car. You’ll only be able to train people in an automatic car when you’ve qualified.
  • you’re looking for qualification in this special category of becoming an approved driving instructor – you will need to bring your emergency control certificate

Hiring a Car

You can use a hire car for your test but it must be fitted with dual controls and meets all the other rules.

Training for ADI Part 2

Unlike ADI Part 1, it is advised to obtain the services of a professional trainer for the ADI Part 2 test. The amount of hours required to gain Part 2 test standard varies considerably on each individual and therefore it is often beneficial to not pay for an entire course up-front as this may not be necessary. Instead, consult an independent trainer who can provide an assessment of your ability and base a suitable course upon the outcome of this initial lesson. You may also find that opting for a pay-per-lesson scheme may prove cheaper.

Simply reading through the tutorials on the Driving Test Tips web site will go along way to eradicating those bad habits and improving your driving, which in turn, may reduce the amount of tuition required. It is worth noting however, ADI Part 2 training is also preparation for the ADI Part 3 test as any good trainer should know and simply gaining a high proficiency in driving for the Part 2 test is the very least you should expect.

ADI Part 2 test preparation

  • Study the Driving Test Tips web site to ensure you use the correct methods for general driving, mirrors, driving routines, observations and the manoeuvres.
  • Put any new skills you have learnt into everyday driving to ensure it becomes second nature.
  • Study the Show Me Tell Me questions to ensure you do not waste one of your possible six minors on something simple.
  • Take an eyesight test to ensure you can read a number plate – 26.5 metres for vehicles with a new-style number plate and 27.5 metres for vehicles with an old-style number plate.
  • Visit the driving test centre where your test is being conducted from and become familiar with the roads leading in and out of the centre.
  • Familiarise yourself with any difficult traffic systems in the area such as roundabouts and junctions.
  • A local driving instructor will be familiar with the driving test routes, more importantly the difficult areas. Knowing all the test routes won’t help you, familiarity with certain challenging areas will. You can also view the ADI driving test routes which are more challenging than the learner driver routes.
  • If you intend on using an ADI trainer, ideally use an independent local ADI trainer who has been recommended. They will likely provide a suitable tailored course based on your skill level, which compared to national courses often proves better financially, plus an improved pass rate.
  • An ORDIT approved trainer means they are following correct training procedures. It does not mean they are better trainers however.

ADI Part 2 test

  • Ensure your car is legal, road worthy and clean inside and out.
  • Ensure you take along your driving licence (both parts) and your ADI Part 1 test pass certificate.
  • Arrive at the test centre in good time, around 10 minutes before your test appointment time.
  • The examiner will be friendly, try to relax and chat to the examiner, but remember to concentrate on the road ahead.
  • If you have made a mistake don’t give up – chances are you still may pass.

ADI Part 2 test results

You will fail the ADI Part 2 if you receive a:

  • dangerous fault – which may result in danger to yourself, the examiner, the public or property
  • serious fault – that has the potential to be dangerous
  • minor faults – that exceed 6

You will be informed of your result once you have returned to the test centre and have turned off the vehicle. If you have passed, you can after 40 hours of Part 3 training become a trainee driving instructor or apply to take the ADI Part 3 test immediately.

 

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Sat Nav Confirmed by DVSA

DVSA confirm the contract for the sat nav to be used by examiners on test.

The TomTom Start52 device will be used for the new practical test

From 4th December 2017 the sat nav to be used by examiners will be the TomTom Start52.

The DVSA is keen to say that this should not be seen as an official or approved choice it is simply the one they have decided to use following the usual government procurement procedure.
The emphasis of training for the new practical test starting from December 4th should not be on using any particular brand of satnav device. It is suitable to teach pupils to use any brand. Using the satnav is simply to allow a longer and more realistic period of independent driving whilst training new drivers to cope with the distraction of such a device.
1 in 5 tests will not use a sat nav but will follow signs or road markings.

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Changes to Part 3 ADI Test

The DVSA have confirmed that the ADI Part 3 test is due to change from the 2nd October 2017. The changes will mean that the examiner role playing the part of a pupil will be removed and replaced with an actual student. The examiner will sit in the rear to observe a lesson.  It will fall inline with the current Standards Check which is used to assess fully trained ADI’s.

Candidates sitting the test from the 2nd October will need to plan the route for themselves as opposed to the current test being given step by step directions to relay to a “pupil” portrayed by the examiner and arrange a normal one hour lesson with a student, the student may be either a learner driver or a full licence holder needed instruction to develop their driving skills.

The change is because the current test structure does not fully prepare PDI’s for real life as an ADI and means that they are requiring further training after qualification to prepare for the standards check test and reality of the job. This new test will better prepare PDI’s for all elements of teaching such as planning routes, dealing with driver faults, teaching new subjects and management of risks on the road.

This is a huge change to the current method of training and so it is imperative that you choose a trainer that is up to date with the changes and has received the right training to make sure you get the best out of your course.

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Changes to the Learner Test

The Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) has confirmed that the driving test in England, Scotland and Wales will change from Monday 4 December 2017.

The changes are designed to make sure new drivers have the skills they’ll need to help them through a lifetime of safe driving.

The changes will only apply to car driving tests to begin with.

The 4 driving test changes

1. Independent driving part of the test will increase to 20 minutes

The independent driving part of the test currently lasts around 10 minutes. During this part of the test, you have to drive without turn-by-turn directions from the driving examiner.

This part of the test will be made longer, so it’ll last around 20 minutes – roughly half of the test.

2. Following directions from a sat nav

During the independent driving part of the test, most candidates will be asked to follow directions from a sat nav.

The examiner will provide the sat nav and set it up. You won’t need to set the route – the examiner will do this for you. So, it doesn’t matter what make or model of sat nav you practise with.

You can’t follow directions from your own sat nav during the test – you have to use the one supplied by the examiner.

You’ll be able to ask the examiner for confirmation of where you’re going if you’re not sure. It won’t matter if you go the wrong way unless you make a fault while doing it.

One in 5 driving tests won’t use a sat nav. You’ll need to follow traffic signs instead.

3. Reversing manoeuvres will be changed

The ‘reverse around a corner’ and ‘turn-in-the-road’ manoeuvres will no longer be tested, but you should still be taught them by your instructor.

You’ll be asked to do one of 3 possible reversing manoeuvres:

  • parallel park at the side of the road
  • park in a bay – either driving in and reversing out, or reversing in and driving out (the examiner will tell you which you have to do)
  • pull up on the right-hand side of the road, reverse for 2 car lengths and rejoin the traffic

4. Answering a vehicle safety question while you’re driving

The examiner will ask you 2 vehicle safety questions during your driving test – these are known as the ‘show me, tell me’ questions.

You’ll be asked the:

  • ‘tell me’ question (where you explain how you’d carry out a safety task) at the start of your test, before you start driving
  • ‘show me’ question (where you show how you’d carry out a safety task) while you’re driving – for example, showing how to wash the windscreen using the car controls and wipers

Watch how the new test will work

This video shows how the test will work from 4 December 2017.

Pass mark, length of test and cost not changing

The pass mark is staying the same. So, you’ll pass your test if you make no more than 15 driving faults and no serious or dangerous faults.

The examiner will still mark the test in the same way, and the same things will still count as faults.

The overall time of the driving test won’t change. You’ll still drive for around 40 minutes.

The cost of the Driving Tests will also stay the same.

Why the changes are being made

Road collisions are the biggest killer of young people. They account for over a quarter of all deaths of those aged between 15 and 19.

DVSA wants to make sure that training and the driving test reduce the number of young people being killed in collisions.

These changes are being made because:

  • most fatal collisions happen on high-speed roads (not including motorways) – changing the format of the test will allow more of these types of roads to be included in driving test routes
  • 52% of car drivers now have a sat nav – DVSA wants new drivers to be trained to use them safely
  • research has shown that new drivers find independent driving training valuable – they can relate it to driving once they’ve passed their test
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Money Back Guarantee

What Training Provider will refund you any unused training?

If you start your training and for any reason you decide not to continue, we will REFUND any unused hours directly back to you.  Does any other provider do that?

We are so confident that our training is the best in the area that we offer this no quibble refund guarantee.

Testimonials

Gillian Sherry ADI

“I have been with BDS for 13 years, when I first qualified I was given every support and encouragement from Tony and Donna, that has never changed.

The company has gone from strength to strength and now has 15 instructors on the team.

Donna is continually striving to improve and grow the business, she keeps the team well informed, and is open to suggestions and ideas, bringing the team together, for discussion and meetings.

Although I work independently, I always feel part of a team, and there is always back up from the school. Work comes through on a regular basis and I always have the amount of work that suits me. 

The franchise rates are realistic, competitive and affordable.
To support your in car training, teaching aids are provided, cancellation policy in place to protect your earnings, advertising taken care of and work wear is also available.

Donna has put together good package deals for pupils, including revision notes, help with theory, car maintenance and good deals for either hourly rates or intensive courses, hence the growth of the school.

A growing company, that still maintains a team feel”

Gillian Sherry ADI

Steph Afifi ADI

“I was a Midwife before become a Driving Instructor, I liked driving and teaching skills to people and so I decided to combine the two.

I like the freedom that being a Driving Instructor gives you, I have the flexibility of time management, I like working for myself but being part of a team as well.

I have worked with BDS for 8 years, since I qualified, and found them to be fair with their work distribution, flexible and you are never obliged to take students on.

They encourage teamwork and are always friendly and professional.   With BDS it is relaxed and friendly, no pressure to take students and their fees are reasonable too!

I would not hesitate to recommend a franchise with them”

Steph Afifi ADI

Stephen Wild ADI

“Before becoming a Driving Instructor I drove a Black Cab for 22 years.  I got into being a Driving Instructor by accident, I started with a non-driver and got them through to a pass, it was a great buzz.

You will often build a bond with people and to see them pass their test makes it very worthwhile.

I worked as in independent instructor for many years, but I found it difficult finding work during the recession and so I joined BDS Driving School. I have never looked back.  My diary is bursting and there is always a waiting list of customers.  We work on postcodes close to our homes and so it’s always very local customers we get.

With BDS I like being part of a team, a driving instructor can sometimes be a lonely profession, whilst you meet plenty of people during your job you don’t always mix or talk with other ADI’s.  Being part of BDS changed that.

In todays world you need marketing, this is something I am not very good at, so I let BDS do all that, its something I don’t even need to think about anymore.

Stephen Wild ADI

Paul Tilling ADI

“I have been with BDS since I qualified in 1997, I can honestly say I have never had an empty diary, the way they book the lessons in works well.  Card payments are an option for pupils that forget their money on the day. I know it sounds cheesy but Donna and Tony feel part of my extended family.  All is great with BDS.

I am proud to be part of the Training Team within BDS, I believe in the company and am keen to help it develop and grow even further”

Paul Tilling ADI
ADI Trainer

Dave Grundy ADI

“Before I became a Driving Instructor I was a coach driver, I had taught my sons and daughters, ex-girlfriend, neighbours and found I quite enjoyed it and got a real buzz when they passed their tests. So after leaving Duple Coaches I trained to become an instructor.  I am passionate about my job, the work you put in to make good drivers out of people is great.  I am a people person and I get great job satisfaction.  I like being part of BDS, its brilliant, I sleep at night, the work is there, no dashing about when the phone rings in case you miss a new student. Also if you fall ill when a student should be on test another BDS instructor will come to the rescue! “

Dave Grundy ADI
ADI

Norrie Umpleby ADI

My name is Norrie and I am a driving instructor with BDS Driving School. 

In 2003 I lived in Yorkshire and I felt I was at a standstill in my job, I wanted to do something I really enjoyed so started to think of other options to fulfill my life. I come across an advert for driving instructing and decided to investigate. I liked the idea of being my own boss. I also liked the idea of making a difference, be able to teach people a life time skill, to learn to drive safely. 

I started on a trainee licence which I feel helped me as I was learning whilst instructing.   I originally passed my part 3 test and received my ADI badge in 2004. I was teaching in a manual car at that time and really enjoyed the job. However, in 2007, due to unforeseen circumstances I didn’t renew my badge.   After a couple of years, I regretted not renewing my badge and wasn’t in a position to retrain. 

After I moved to Fleetwood, I decided to look into being self-employed again and I decided I wanted to get back into driving instructing.  As I didn’t know the area very well I looked around to find a school that would give me the training locally so that I could get my ADI badge back again. 

I found BDS on the internet and I liked what I saw. I looked at others and no one else compared to BDS so I made an appointment to see them. From the first time we met I knew this was the school for me. Donna and Tony made me very welcome and answered every question I had. They helped me tailor the training to suit my needs. 

I passed my tests and got my ADI badge back again in March 2018. I left my admin job and started teaching straight away. I now instruct in automatic and really enjoy it. 

BDS transformed my life and I have a full diary and ALL the help and support I could ever want. 

I have never looked back.

Norrie Umpleby ADI

Mark H

The training I am currently receiving from BDS is brilliant, Paul who is training me helps me a lot and is very thorough in teaching me on how to do the job to a top standard. I also receive great help from Donna. She is always messaging to see how I am getting on with the training and always offers help if I need it.

Mark H
PDI

Marc Tilbury

Train to be a driving instructor

I was trained by Tony Sumner, I found him very flexible – very easy going and clearly extremely experienced. I would highly recommend BDS to anyone. I am now very pleased to be able to say that I have completed my training. Tony and Donna have both been incredibly supportive throughout and I am enjoying working with BDS.

Marc Tilbury PDI

Shane McKenna

Train to be a Driving Instructor

My Driving Instructor Trainer was Paul Tilling at BDS. From the 1st minute to the last minute….I knew I had the made the correct decision to train with BDS. Paul is extremely easy to chat to and will make you feel at ease at every given opportunity. The amount of up to date knowledge Paul has about becoming a Driving Instructor is testament to his dedication to constantly update his own continued professional development and pass this onto his pupils. If he cant find the answer straight away to a problem, he will endeavour and leave no stone unturned until he finds the answer. This quality makes you feel that everything is covered in your learning journey as a Driving Instructor. Although slightly more expensive than the nationwide companies you get without doubt and more personalised and 1 to 1 tuition which is so valuable and not to be overlooked.

Mandy Kerr

Instructor Training in Blackpool

I chose BDS because it is a local company, and I read their reviews. I spoke to Donna and instantly felt comfortable and knew I had picked the right team for me. She was very professional, explained everything in great detail and helped me to work out a plan that worked for me. There was no expectation that it was this way and the only way. We are all individuals and learn different ways and sometimes need different approaches to achieve our goals. The team at BDS are great and very helpful with anything I asked or needed. Emma was my trainer and I was in great hands, we all have those driver faults she soon found mine, but gave me great advice on what I need and great praise when I achieved.
If you want to become a driving instructor you can’t go wrong with this team, you will feel a belonging that is personal to you and not just another number in a larger organisation. You will feel and see the support you get from the whole team. Join us at BDS. Mandy

David Thorpe ADI

Train to be a Driving Instructor

“Can’t fault the training and support I received from Donna, Emma & the whole BDS team. Spoke to several driving schools whilst deciding whether to take the plunge. Donna was the only one that genuinely seemed interested in my development more than how much money I’d be giving them. Completed my training with Emma. She is very knowledgeable and extremely helpful. Got rid of my bad habits to pass the Part 2 and was invaluable in getting me through my Part 3.  From the 1st baby steps of starting out on how to teach others how to drive, to the panicked calls and texts the night before / morning of my actual part 3. The whole BDS team are only a group-chat away to offer any support and advice if needed. No regrets in my decision to change careers and definitely no regrets in my choice of trainer”

Dan Jenkins PDI

“I have been training with Emma Bird, I couldn’t ask for a better trainer, she is helpful knowledgeable and simply amazing!  I have opted for the Pink Licence to get on the job training before taking the part 3 test.  I have the use of a car supplied by BDS whilst under the trainee licence so I don’t have the outlay for a car until fully qualified.  Donna and the full network of BDS Instructors have welcomed me and been there to answer any questions I have had – from the start it has been 5 Star!

100% recommend training with BDS Driving School!”

Dave Topley PDI

Dave Topley PDI

Emma was my instructor for my ADI/PDI Part 2 and Part 3 training.

Even though I’d been driving for over 35 years, Emma raised my driving standard  to enable me to pass my Part 2 test with ease.

Her patient and calming manner, along with her technical knowledge about driving standards is what made my Part 3 training enjoyable and fun.

I would highly recommend Emma if you want to train as an Driving Instructor.

Read more testimonials

Contact Us

Tel 01253 899909
E-Mail : info@beadrivinginstuctor.co.uk