The DVSA has published an updated Driving Instructor Code of Practice, marking an important change for approved driving instructors across England, Scotland and Wales.
The updated code was published on 23 September 2026 and is planned to become mandatory sometime between late 2026 and early 2027. The exact date has not yet been confirmed. Once introduced, instructors will need to declare that they have read and agreed to the code when applying to become an instructor, renewing their ADI registration or applying for a trainee licence.
So what does this mean for driving instructors and learners?
Higher Professional Standards for Driving Instructors
The new code places greater emphasis on professionalism, integrity, legal compliance and the responsibility instructors have towards their pupils and the wider public.
Instructors are expected to behave professionally, keep their knowledge and skills up to date and follow the relevant laws and national standards for driver training.
The DVSA can also consider an instructor’s conduct outside working hours where it affects public confidence, road safety or the driving instructor profession.
Safeguarding and Professional Boundaries
The code also sets clear expectations around professional relationships between instructors and pupils.
Instructors must maintain appropriate professional boundaries and take the safety and wellbeing of their pupils seriously. This is particularly important when teaching younger learners or vulnerable adults.
These standards are designed to help create a professional learning environment where pupils can feel safe and respected.
Standards for Driving Lessons
Driving instruction must follow the national standard for driver and rider training and should be appropriate to the learner’s level and development.
Instructors are also responsible for making sure that the training vehicle is insured, roadworthy and legally compliant.
The vehicle must have the required additional interior mirror and correctly positioned L plates, with D plates optionally permitted in Wales.
AI-Generated Teaching Materials
Artificial intelligence is also specifically mentioned in the new code.
If an instructor uses AI to create teaching materials, they remain responsible for checking that the information is technically correct, accurate and consistent with the national standards.
This is particularly relevant as more businesses and professionals begin using AI to create educational and promotional content.
Mobile Phones and Handheld Devices
The code places clear restrictions on the use of mobile phones and handheld devices while providing instruction.
An instructor can face serious consequences for using a mobile phone or handheld device while teaching from a moving vehicle. DVSA guidance states that using such a device while providing instruction can result in penalty points and may also lead to removal from the ADI register.
This reinforces an important principle: the instructor’s attention should remain focused on the learner, the vehicle and the road.
Instructor Badges and Vehicle Requirements
Learners should be able to identify whether the person providing paid instruction is properly registered.
The new code requires an ADI badge or trainee driving instructor certificate to be displayed in the windscreen when paid instruction is being provided. Instructors should also display their badge when accompanying a pupil on their driving test.
For learners, checking these details can provide additional reassurance that they are receiving instruction from a recognised driving professional.
Clear Terms and Lesson Records
The code also places importance on clear business practices.
Before lessons begin, pupils should receive information about matters such as:
- Lesson prices and duration
- Cancellation arrangements
- Refund policies
- Contact details
- How personal information is handled
- How complaints can be made
Instructors must also keep accurate records of lessons and hours delivered and keep pupils informed about their progress and any further training they may need.
Complaints and Professional Conduct
The new code also sets expectations around handling complaints.
Instructors should have a clear complaints process and deal with concerns promptly. The code also gives the ADI Registrar powers to take action where an instructor does not comply with the required standards.
Depending on the circumstances, this can include a formal warning, an investigation or standards check, and suspension or removal from the ADI register.
What This Means for Learners in Croydon
For people looking for driving lessons in Croydon, professional standards are an important part of choosing an instructor.
GoPro Drive provides driving lessons for learners across Croydon and surrounding areas, including Addiscombe, Addington, Selsdon, Selhurst, Woodside, South Norwood, Waddon, Ashburton, Coulsdon, Kenley and Purley.
For learners looking for driving lessons in Croydon and the surrounding areas, GoPro Drive provides lessons across a wide range of locations, including Norbury, Sanderstead, Shirley, Thornton Heath, Crystal Palace, Pollards Hill, Forestdale, South Croydon, Beddington, West Wickham, Anerley, Penge, Elmers End, Beckenham, Upper Norwood, Streatham, Monks Hill, Eden Park, Sydenham, Whyteleafe and Caterham, subject to instructor availability and lesson requirements.
Why Professional Standards Matter
Learning to drive involves much more than mastering clutch control, junctions and manoeuvres. Learners are trusting their instructor to provide safe, accurate and professional guidance throughout their training.
The updated DVSA code sets out clearer expectations around instructor conduct, lesson standards, safeguarding, business practices and road safety.
Although the new mandatory requirements are not yet in force as of 23 September 2026, instructors and learners can already familiarise themselves with what is changing and what these standards are intended to achieve.
For anyone learning to drive, choosing a professional instructor and developing safe driving habits from the beginning can make a valuable difference to their overall learning experience.