It is against the law for a driving instructor to use a hand-held mobile phone or another digital device (tablet) while supervising a learner driver in a moving vehicle. This includes texting or other use.
Seat belt rules apply to driving instructors and their pupils in the normal way, except when supervising a pupil who is carrying out a manoeuvre that involves reversing, as an instructor is permitted to remove their seat belt. This does NOT apply to PDIs.
The teaching vehicle must display regulation ‘L’ plates (or optionally ‘D’ plates in Wales) that are clearly visible to other road users when necessary and these can remain on between lessons.
Motorway lessons can only be delivered to a learner driver by an ADI in a dual controlled vehicle.
Instructors must display their badge on the nearside edge of the front windscreen of the car while giving paid for driving lessons.
If vehicles are being used for tuition or test, check that they provide adequate cover. Does it cover ‘Paid for tuition’? Does it cover the driving test? Does it cover the drive home after passing?
Online counterparts should be being checked by ADI/PDIs as part of their due diligence.
If you get any penalty or conviction – not exclusively driving related – you must report it to the DVSA. They are far favourable with those that are proactive if something has occurred, and frown upon anyone deemed to be avoiding the issue.
You are legally obliged to update the DVSA of any change of address. Changing your driving licence address is not enough, you need to update the registrar directly.
Posted by Chris Bensted
April 10, 2021
