Is Driving Instructor Training Right for You?
Thinking about a new career as a driving instructor?
ISM provides professional Approved Driving Instructor (ADI) training for people looking to qualify as driving instructors in Ireland. Our full programme covers all three stages of the RSA ADI qualification process, with training delivered on a one-to-one basis by experienced ADI trainers.
Course Duration: 32 Hours
Training: One-to-One
Course Fee: €2,550
Payment Plan: 3 payments of €850
Why Become a Driving Instructor?
Becoming an Approved Driving Instructor can offer a flexible and rewarding new career direction.
ISM trainees come from a wide range of backgrounds and professions. You do not need previous teaching or training experience to start the ADI qualification process.
As a qualified ADI, you can:
- Work locally
- Choose your working hours
- Work full-time or part-time
- Set up your own driving school
- Build a career working directly with learner drivers
- Explore opportunities to work with ISM, subject to availability and interview
How Do I Become an Approved Driving Instructor?
To become an Approved Driving Instructor in Ireland, you must successfully complete the RSA ADI qualification process.
There are three stages:
Stage 1 – Theory
Stage 1 covers the theoretical aspects of driving instruction, including the Rules of the Road, driving regulations, teaching methods and customer focus.
ISM Stage 1 Training
Home study followed by a 4-hour one-to-one classroom or online revision and preparation session.
Your trainer will work through the relevant ADI material with you and use mock exam questions to help prepare you for the RSA Stage 1 Theory Test.
Training: 4 hours
Stage 2 – Advanced Driving
Stage 2 focuses on developing your practical driving skills to the standard required of a professional driving instructor.
Training includes:
- Assessment of your practical driving ability
- Correct driving procedures and manoeuvres
- Identifying and correcting driving habits
- Driving in different environments, including urban and rural roads, motorways and dual carriageways
ISM Stage 2 Training
12 hours of one-to-one on-road advanced driver training, normally completed over three half-day sessions.
An ISM training vehicle can be provided where required.
Training: 12 hours
Stage 3 – Instructional Ability
Stage 3 focuses on developing your ability to teach someone else to drive safely and effectively.
Training includes:
- Using dual controls safely
- Planning and structuring driving lessons
- Identifying and correcting learner-driver errors
- Developing instructional and communication techniques
- Preparing for the RSA Stage 3 assessment
ISM Stage 3 Training
16 hours of combined one-to-one on-road and classroom training, normally completed over four half-day sessions.
An ISM ADI Teaching Manual is included.
Training: 16 hours
ADI Course Fees
The complete ISM ADI Training Programme provides 32 hours of one-to-one training across all three stages.
Stage 1 – €850
4 hours of theory revision and exam preparation
Stage 2 – €850
12 hours of advanced driver training
Stage 3 – €850
16 hours of instructional ability training
Total ISM ADI Training Programme: €2,550
You can pay for the programme in three stages, allowing you to progress and pay for your training as you move through the qualification process.
RSA examination, application and registration fees are separate from the ISM training fee.
Why Train with ISM?
ISM is Ireland’s largest driving school and one of Ireland’s leading driving instructor training providers.
With over 60 years’ experience in driver training, we provide one-to-one ADI training and support throughout all three stages of the RSA qualification process.
When you train with ISM, you receive:
- One-to-one ADI training
- Training for all three stages of the RSA qualification process
- Experienced ADI trainers
- Classroom and on-road training
- Training vehicles where required
- ADI Stage 3 Teaching Manual
- A three-stage payment option
- Guidance throughout the qualification process
Training is primarily provided in Dublin and Cork, with selected other locations available on request.
Once qualified, you can establish your own driving school or explore opportunities to join the ISM instructor network, subject to availability and interview.
Getting Started
Before beginning the ADI qualification process, you must apply to the Road Safety Authority (RSA) and meet its eligibility requirements.
The process includes completing the required ADI application and Garda vetting requirements before progressing through the three RSA qualification stages.
Once you receive confirmation that you are eligible to proceed, you can begin preparing for Stage 1.
Not sure where to start?
Contact us at 01 864 1790, or request a callback. Our team can explain the qualification process, course structute, costs and your next steps.
Your ADI Journey – Step by Step
1. Apply to the RSA
Complete the RSA ADI application process and confirm that you meet the eligibility requirements.
2. Prepare for Stage 1
Complete your home study and ISM theory preparation before sitting the RSA Stage 1 Theory Test.
3. Complete Stage 1
Successfully complete the RSA Stage 1 Theory Test before progressing to Stage 2.
4. Complete Stage 2
Complete your 12 hours of ISM Advanced Driver Training and prepare for your RSA Stage 2 assessment.
5. Complete Stage 3
Complete 16 hours of ISM Instructional Ability Training and prepare for your final RSA assessment.
6. Become an Approved Driving Instructor
Once you have successfully completed the RSA qualification and registration requirements, you can begin your career as an Approved Driving Instructor.
Why Choose ISM?
Put your trust in ISM to get you on the road as an Approved Driving Instructor (ADI). Established in 1961, ISM is Ireland’s longest-established and largest driving school, offering training nationwide.
With over 60 years in business, you will be trained by one of Ireland’s most experienced and established driving schools. As our network of ISM instructors continues to expand throughout Ireland, we continue to grow our market share.
Our partnership with AXA Insurance, Ireland’s largest motor insurer, provides two exclusive offers for learner permit and full licence holders, helping to generate additional business for ISM instructors nationwide. In addition, our integrated online booking system continues to grow, with over 45% of car driving lesson bookings now made online.
Whether you are an existing ADI looking to increase your local business or are new to the industry, contact Steve Murray or Karl Walsh at ISM Head Office 01 864 1790. Please note that ISM restricts the number of Instructors in all areas throughout Ireland’s cities, towns, and rural areas.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to train as a driving instructor with ISM?
The complete ISM ADI Training Programme costs €2,550. This can be paid in three payments of €850 as you progress through Stages 1, 2 and 3. RSA fees are separate.
How many hours of training are included?
The complete programme includes 32 hours of one-to-one training: 4 hours for Stage 1, 12 hours for Stage 2 and 16 hours for Stage 3.
Is the ADI training one-to-one?
Yes. ISM ADI training is delivered on a one-to-one basis.
What are the three stages of becoming an ADI?
The RSA qualification process consists of Stage 1 Theory, Stage 2 Advanced Driving and Stage 3 Instructional Ability.
Can I pay for each stage separately?
Yes. The €2,550 ISM course fee can be paid in three payments of €850 as you progress through the programme.
Where does ISM provide ADI training?
ISM provides most ADI training in Dublin and Cork. Training may also be available in selected other areas on request.
Is a training vehicle provided?
ISM can provide a training vehicle for the relevant on-road training where required.
Do I need teaching experience to become a driving instructor?
No previous teaching or training experience is required to begin the ADI qualification process. You must, however, meet the RSA eligibility requirements.
Can I set up my own driving school when I qualify?
Qualified ADIs can explore opportunities to join the ISM instructor network or set up your own driving school. Opportunities depend on availability in the relevant area and are subject to interview
Can I work with ISM after I qualify?
Qualified ADIs can explore opportunities to join the ISM instructor network or set up your own driving school. Opportunities depend on availability in the relevant area and are subject to interview.
Our ADI Training Team can talk you through the RSA qualification process, ISM training programme, course fees and the next steps to get started.
