It is so important to find a good driving instructor when you’re learning how to drive.
Not everyone is cut out for the job, and it can be dangerous if you’re not taught by someone who knows what they’re doing.
In this post, we’ll discuss the seven qualities every good driving instructor should have.
By the end, you’ll be able to select the very best instructor for you.
P.S.
If you're already working with an instructor that doesn't have (most of) these qualities, don't be afraid to end things! Click here to learn all about breaking up with your driving instructor.
Qualities of A Good Driving Instructor
1. Patience
This one is so so important.
There’s no faster way to make you anxious about driving than being taught by someone impatient.
Learning to drive is like learning to walk — a good parent isn’t going to yell, roll their eyes, or make rude comments to their baby taking its first few steps.
They expect their baby to stumble and fall because they understand that this is a precious learning process.
Driving should be treated the same.
A good driving instructor will be patient with their student, no matter how long it takes to learn even the basics.
2. Professionalism
It can be awkward enough to spend an hour in a car with a stranger, far less a stranger who makes you feel uncomfortable.
Whether it’s poor hygiene, no manners, or creepy flirty comments — it’s a no for us!
A good driving instructor will show up on time and dress professionally.
They will behave in a professional manner, making sure their student feels comfortable during the lesson.
Pro Tip
Never sacrifice your comfort and safety for a low price!
3. Good Communication Skills
When learning to drive, you need to get used to paying attention to the road, as well as to the instructions of your driving instructor.
But if your instructor mumbles, talks too fast, or uses unnecessarily big words, understanding them is going to be so much harder.
Instead, a good driving instructor will be able to clearly explain what they expect from their students.
They’ll be able to answer questions in a way that is easy to understand and provide simple instructions.
4. Knowledgeable
This one is a no-brainer.
There’s a reason why you (probably) wouldn’t ask your younger sibling who plays racing games in their free time for driving lessons.
You want to learn from someone who actually knows what they’re doing.
So, of course, a good driving instructor should have a thorough knowledge of the rules of the road and other important safety information.
They should be able to answer any question you may have without error.
If your driving instructor teaches you the wrong thing, you can just forget about passing your driving exam.
5. Encouraging
It’s easy to be hard on yourself when you’re struggling to grasp a new driving concept.
Maybe it’s a three-point turn, or maybe it’s remembering to check your mirrors.
Whatever it is, a good driving instructor will be encouraging and positive, rather than negative or judgmental.
They’ll be there to cheer you on and motivate you to keep progressing in your driving skills.
6. Compassionate
Learning to drive can be intimidating, and a good driving instructor will understand that.
They won’t try to dismiss or invalidate your feelings or make you feel like you’re being dramatic.
Rather, they’ll be compassionate and understanding of any fears or doubts you may have.
They’ll listen and offer support in a kind and non-judgmental way. They’ll kindly assure you that there’s nothing to worry about.
7. Flexibility
Finally, a good driving instructor will be able to adjust their teaching methods as needed, in order to cater to your needs.
Everyone is different, so one technique won’t work for every learner. And truth be told, it doesn’t matter if a technique worked for everyone else.
You’re paying your instructor to teach you, not everyone else.
This means that your driving instructor should be understanding and open to making changes, whether it’s a longer lesson or going over the same areas multiple times until you feel comfortable.
They’ll want you to succeed as much as you do!
Pro Tip
A longer lesson will likely come with an additional fee so be sure to ask first.
Conclusion
Finding the right instructor can make a huge difference in how smoothly you go from learner to licensed driver.
Look for qualities like professionalism, clear communication, strong knowledge, and patience.
The right instructor will make your learning experience more comfortable, less stressful, and far more effective — which puts you in a great position to pass your test.
And if your current instructor isn’t the right fit? It’s okay to switch.
Click here to learn how to break up with your driving instructor.
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