DVSA has published a mandatory driving instructor code of practice that goes further than the one it replaces. It covers everything from hands-free calls to AI to how you behave off duty. Here’s what’s different, and where the arguments are likely to start.
Correct as of 28 September 2026. DVSA published the new code on 23 September 2026. It has not yet confirmed the date the code takes effect.
Since 2017, the ADI code of practice has been something instructors could choose to sign up to.
That choice is disappearing.
On 23 September 2026, DVSA published a new driving instructor code of practice. It will replace both the voluntary code and the ADI register guide. DVSA says it will be introduced sometime between late 2026 and early 2027, and it will be mandatory.
The current code runs to four short sections. The new one has sixteen. Some of what’s in them will change how instructors work day-to-day.
The new code of practice: from optional to mandatory
Under the new code, instructors will have to declare that they have read and agreed to it when they:
apply to become an instructor
renew their registration
apply for a trainee licence
The code also sets out what happens if instructors don’t follow it. The ADI Registrar may issue a formal warning, carry out a standards check or investigation, or suspend and remove the instructor from the ADI register.
That is the biggest shift. The current code was agreed between DVSA and the National Associations Strategic Partnership (NASP). It describes itself as a framework that professional bodies expect their members to follow. The new code is published by DVSA as a mandatory standard, with the register behind it.
Your life outside work now counts
The current code primarily concerns how instructors treat their clients. The new one reaches further.
It says instructors represent the profession “including when you are not working”. DVSA expects instructors to be honest, act with integrity, behave professionally and follow the law, both when teaching and in their personal life.
The code also says how instructors behave outside work may be taken into account if it affects public confidence in the register, road safety or the profession. DVSA expects a high standard of driving even when instructors aren’t working.
The hands-free phone rule that goes further
The current code states that instructors should not use mobile devices while driving or supervising a client’s driving.
The new code is more specific. Instructors must not use a mobile phone or any hand-held device while instructing, including tablets. They also must not receive calls while instructing, and the code states that this includes hands-free mode.
To use a tablet to record progress or show a diagram or video, instructors must park safely and switch the engine off first. DVSA suggests keeping the phone in the glove compartment.
The code warns that using a phone or hand-held device while instructing in a moving vehicle can lead to 6 penalty points, and possible removal from the register.
Seven days to report
The new code says instructors must tell DVSA within 7 days if they are:
the subject of any allegation
cautioned or convicted of an offense, including motoring offenses
barred from working with children by the Disclosure and Barring Service
Reports go to the DVSA criminal records team at crt@dvsa.gov.uk. Missing the 7-day deadline may itself be treated as misconduct.
Instructors must also co-operate fully with any DVSA or ADI Registrar investigation. That includes providing information, documents and explanations when asked. Failing to co-operate may also be treated as misconduct.
Who is “fit and proper”?
The code spells out the kinds of cautions and convictions that make an instructor unlikely to be considered “fit and proper”. They include offences such as sexual assault, fraud, theft, assault and drug offences.
Two items on the list come from ordinary motoring:
receiving 5 or more penalty points on your licence, whether from motoring convictions or fixed penalty notices
being disqualified from driving within the last 4 years
DVSA says each case is considered individually. The Registrar weighs up factors including:
how serious the offence was
how long ago it happened
any pattern of behaviour
evidence of rehabilitation
how relevant it is to the role
A first: rules on AI
The current code doesn’t mention artificial intelligence. The new one mentions it twice.
Any learning materials instructors develop using AI must be technically correct, accurate and in line with the national standards. The same applies to promotional materials made with AI.
For instructors using AI tools to write lesson plans, handouts, or social media posts, this puts the responsibility for accuracy firmly on the instructor.
Safeguarding moves centre stage
The current code asks instructors to avoid inappropriate contact, language and situations. The new code makes much of this a firm requirement.
Instructors must:
protect all pupils from harm, especially children under 18 and vulnerable adults
understand safeguarding principles
maintain professional boundaries at all times
They must not:
have inappropriate contact with pupils outside lessons, including through personal social media accounts
enter into a sexual or romantic relationship with someone they are instructing
DVSA suggests instructors consider completing a safeguarding course. They should also know how to recognise safeguarding concerns and who to report them to.
The code also covers messages. Instructors must not send pupils messages, images or emojis that could be seen as offensive or unprofessional.
Your business, under the microscope
The current code already asks instructors to share their terms of business. The new code adds detail and consequences.
Terms of business must now include how the instructor will handle the pupil’s personal data. DVSA says the terms should be given in writing before lessons start.
Instructors must keep accurate records of lessons and hours, and protect all money paid to them, particularly money paid in advance. They must also not accept gifts or hospitality that could compromise their judgment.
The code names four things that could lead to removal from the register:
lessons shorter than agreed
instruction below the expected standard
repeatedly arriving late
repeatedly cancelling lessons
Changes of name, home address, business address or email address must be updated on the ADI register within 7 calendar days.
Test day, rewritten
Some test-day duties are familiar, such as checking the pupil can read a number plate at the required distance. Others are new.
Before a test, instructors should consider whether the pupil is ready and advise them to book a later test if not. DVSA also suggests encouraging pupils to take a mock test with another instructor where possible.
On the day, instructors should:
make sure the pupil knows how to find the test centre
agree with the pupil beforehand whether to accompany them on the test
use the debrief to plan future lessons
Instructors must not interfere with or distract the pupil during the test. If they do, the examiner will stop the test immediately. Unprofessional behaviour at a test centre could lead to being reported to the ADI Registrar and removed from the register.
The code also sets out the new reality of booking. Instructors cannot book, change, swap or cancel car tests for pupils. Misusing the system to book or manage tests could lead to removal from the register.
Instructors should also display their badge when a pupil takes their test, whether in the instructor’s car or the pupil’s own. DVSA says this helps improve the accuracy of the instructor’s ADI driving test data report.
What the code means for PDIs and trainee instructors
The new code has a section just for trainee instructors. As a trainee, you must:
complete and document your required training hours and supervision
only work from your sponsoring school or ADI
apply for a Part 3 test
You must not work independently, or mislead pupils or suggest you are a qualified ADI. DVSA is clear that the trainee licence is not an alternative to full registration, and that trainees should aim to complete the qualification process.
Sponsoring ADIs get duties too. They must provide adequate support, training and pupils for each trainee. They must only support a trainee licence application once they are satisfied the trainee has reached a safe and suitable standard.
What hasn’t changed
Plenty will feel familiar. Instructors still need to:
teach in line with the national standard
fit an extra interior rear-view mirror
display L plates, or optionally D plates in Wales
explain how any advertised pass rate is calculated
deal with complaints promptly
What’s different is the tone, the detail, and the fact that the register now stands behind it.
The debate starts here
Some parts of the new code are likely to divide the profession. For example:
Reporting allegations. Should instructors have to report any allegation within 7 days, even one that turns out to be unfounded? Supporters will say early reporting protects pupils. Critics may worry about fairness to instructors facing false claims.
The hands-free ban. Does a ban on receiving hands-free calls while instructing go too far for sole traders who rely on their phone for bookings? Or is full attention on the pupil exactly what the job demands?
Life off duty. How far should a regulator look into an instructor’s personal life? Some will see it as the standard expected of any profession trusted with young people. Others will ask where the line is.
Mandatory at last. Is a compulsory code overdue, or does it add pressure to an already stretched profession?
We’d like to know where you stand.
Get ahead before it lands
With a date still to be confirmed, now is the time to check your terms of business, your phone habits and your marketing against the new code.
Our trainers run live and online workshops every week, including our Steering Success events, where respected names in driver training help instructors prepare for changes like this one.
See upcoming workshops at pdiadi.com
Driving instructor code of practice: FAQs
Is the new driving instructor code of practice mandatory?
Yes. Instructors will have to declare that they have read and agreed to it when they apply to become an instructor, renew their registration or apply for a trainee licence.
When does the new code of practice take effect?
DVSA has said it will come in between late 2026 and early 2027. At the time of writing, it has not confirmed the exact date.
What happens if an instructor does not follow the code?
The ADI Registrar may issue a formal warning, carry out a standards check or investigation, or suspend and remove the instructor from the ADI register.
Can driving instructors take hands-free calls during a lesson?
No. The new code says instructors must not receive calls while instructing, and that includes hands-free mode.
What do instructors have to report to DVSA within 7 days?
Any allegation made against them, any caution or conviction (including motoring offences), and being barred from working with children by the Disclosure and Barring Service. Reports go to the DVSA criminal records team at crt@dvsa.gov.uk.
Does the code apply to PDIs and trainee instructors?
Yes. The new code has a section just for trainees, and sponsoring ADIs have duties too.
Sources
DVSA, Driving instructor code of practice (effective date to be confirmed) (updated 23 September 2026)
https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/driving-instructor-code-of-practice/driving-instructor-code-of-practice-effective-date-to-be-confirmed
DVSA, Approved driving instructor (ADI) code of practice, the current voluntary code (updated 23 September 2026)
https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/driving-instructor-code-of-practice/approved-driving-instructor-adi-code-of-practice
DVSA, Driving instructor code of practice collection page (last updated 23 September 2026)
https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/driving-instructor-code-of-practice