There’s a lot of noise around associations. Some work closely with NASP, some don’t. Some are grassroots, some are commercial. This page gives a clear, fair snapshot of who does what, so ADIs and PDIs can make an informed choice.
NASP Associations (Official Representation)
1. DIA – Driving Instructors Association
Website: driving.org
What they offer:
- Representation at NASP
- P.I.P.L. cover
- Legal advice
- Training & CPD
- Advanced Driving through DIAmond
- Resources and publications
- Commercial shop (training, products, services)
- Includes motorcycle trainers as part of membership
Industry note:
The DIA is the most commercially structured of the NASP associations.
They employ ADIs within the organisation, though these are not typically working instructors. Their approach focuses on scale, services, and product delivery across a broad membership base.
Strengths: Wide reach, structured services, national profile.
Considerations: Strong commercial focus; less grassroots than some alternatives.
2. MSA GB – Motor Schools Association of Great Britain
Website: msagb.co.uk
What they offer:
- Representation at NASP
- P.I.P.L. cover
- Regional meetings
- Industry updates
- Support from local representatives
Industry note:
The MSA is widely seen as the least commercial of the NASP associations.
Its representatives are predominantly working ADIs, bringing day-to-day, frontline experience into discussions and representation.
Strengths: Grassroots insight, practical perspective, regional support.
Considerations: More traditional structure and presentation.
3. ADINJC – National Joint Council
Website: adinjc.org.uk
What they offer:
- Representation at NASP
- P.I.P.L. cover (available as an add-on)
- Weekly newsletters
- Training and CPD
- Conferences and events
- Co-hosts the Intelligent Instructor Expo annually
Industry note:
The ADINJC is run by a collective of driving instructors and industry-connected professionals. Its training and events programme largely reflects what members ask for, rather than a fixed commercial model. It has a strong presence in national events and industry discussion.
Strengths: Strong communication, community focus, active engagement.
Considerations: Training-heavy offer may not suit everyone.
Other Associations (Not NASP)
AADI – Association of Approved Driving Instructors
Website: theaadi.co.uk
What they offer:
- Industry group outside NASP
- Active social media group
- Peer discussion and collective voice
Industry note:
The AADI operates with a more union-style feel, focusing on collective discussion and representation rather than services or products. It does not provide P.I.P.L. cover and does not offer formal CPD, webinars, discounts, magazines, or training resources.
Strengths: Strong peer voice and discussion platform.
Considerations: Limited practical benefits beyond representation and community.
Quick Comparison Table
| Association | NASP Member | P.I.P.L. Cover | Working ADIs in Leadership | Commercial Focus | Community Strength |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| DIA | Yes | Yes | Limited | High | Strong |
| MSA GB | Yes | Yes | Yes | Low | Moderate |
| ADINJC | Yes | Add-on | Yes | Medium | Very strong |
| AADI | No | No | Yes | Low | Discussion-led |
Which should you join?
- Commercial services and structured training: DIA
- Grassroots, working-ADI representation: MSA GB
- Community, training, and national events: ADINJC
- Collective voice without services: AADI
Check Out Your Local Associations
What they offer:
- Community
- Local advice and support
- Mentoring
- National news at a Local level
What about The DITC?
The DITC?
Website: theDITC.co.uk
The Driving Instructor and Trainers Collective are not trying to be an Association. We declined the DVSA suggestion that we join NASP, we are a sign posting platform, community hub and industry commentators.
What we offer:
- Community
- Advice and support
- Signposting platform
- Commentary and change
Posted by Chris Bensted
December 12, 2025
