Choosing a good driving instructor is the first and most important step in becoming a driver competent enough to obtain a driving license.

Because there are numerous driving schools to choose from, a good way to start is by asking for personal recommendations from friends and family. Advice to seek includes how many lessons the driver completed prior to taking the driving test, whether defensive driving skills were required as part of the tuition, and whether the instructor was best-practice in their approach to driving and on time for their lessons.

It’s important to feel comfortable with the driving instructor. Most driving instructors are highly qualified, have high levels of patience and remain calm when in the car with a driver under instruction. It’s key not to feel intimidated by the driving instructor, and be able to understand their direction. It’s also good to use a driving instructor with a proven track record. Create a list of questions to ask the driving instructor to help you choose the right one, including: pass rate and average number of lessons recommended.

Many driving schools have a choice of male or female instructors offering various types of driving classes and vehicles including refresher lessons, overseas license conversions and instruction for disabled drivers.