© 2008 Altash Ltd and Hall Driving School Scarborough

(Driving lessons in Scarborough)

Voluntary Code of Practice for Approved Driving Instructors

(DRAFT copy, awaiting D.S.A. confirmation by Autumn 2010)

 

A Driving Instructor who gives lessons in a motor car in return for payment must be on the ‘Register of Approved Driving Instructors‘. To gain entry to the register, prospective instructors need to pass a series of examinations administered by the Driving Standards Agency. Once fully qualified and on the register, A.D.I.'s are regularly tested by D.S.A to check their continued ability to give instruction to an acceptable standard. The D.S.A and the driving instruction industry place great emphasis on professional standards and business ethics. The Code of Practice set out below has been agreed between D.S.A and the main bodies representing A.D.I.'s; it is a framework within which all instructors should operate.

 

Personal conduct

 

• Seek at all times to comply with the law and, in particular, legislative requirements related to discrimination, data protection, trading standards, the workplace and road safety.

• At all times treat clients with respect and consideration.

• Not offer non business related promotional gifts or hospitality to prevent any undue misunderstanding or offence.

• Being in a position of trust, avoid any behaviour which encourages a physical or emotionally dependent relationship to develop with a client.

• Endeavour to maintain skills and knowledge to the required standard.

• Avoid physical contact with a client except in an emergency.

• Not make inappropriate contact with the client via phone, text, email or any other means.

• Not make comments or converse with the client about issues that could be deemed inappropriate, discriminatory, lewd or offensive.

• Ensure that the car is fit for purpose in that it is roadworthy and clean.

 

Business dealings

 

• Safeguard and be able to account for any monies paid in advance by the client in respect of lessons, test fees or for any other purpose and will make the details available to the client on request.

• Provide a copy of this Code of Practice, or highlight where it is available, to the client.

• On or before the first lesson should provide clients with a written copy of their terms of business to include:

- legal identity of the school/ instructor with full address and telephone number at which the instructor or their representative can be contacted

- the price and duration of lessons

- the price and conditions for use of a car for any practical test and any related booking fees

- the terms under which cancellation by either party may take place

- the procedure for complaints - details of the refund policy

- and, in addition, should show the client their valid certificate or licence.

• Check a client’s entitlement to drive the car and their ability to read a number plate at the statutory distance on the first lesson and before driving the vehicle, repeated at suitable intervals.

• When presenting a client for a practical test the instructor should ensure that the client has all the necessary documentation to enable them to take the test and show that the vehicle is roadworthy. Further, the car should be prepared so that DSA supervising examiners can accompany the test if necessary.

• Advise clients when to apply for their theory and practical tests, taking account of local waiting times and forecast of the clients’ potential for achieving a consistent standard of safe driving. The instructor will not cancel or re-arrange a test without the client being informed. In the event of the instructor’s decision to withhold the use of the school vehicle for the test, sufficient notice should be given to the client to avoid loss of the DSA test fee.

• Should at all times endeavour to teach the client correct knowledge and skills according to DSA’s recommended syllabus.

• Should ensure that any discussions that occur with the client are treated in the strictest confidence and not disclosed to uninterested third parties.

 

Advertising

 

• The advertising of tuition shall be factual, honest and not misleading; claims made will be verifiable and comply with codes of practice set down by the Advertising Standards Authority (ASA).

• Advertising that refers to clients’ pass rates must be factual and verifiable. Advertised pass rates should not be open to misinterpretation and the basis on which the pass rate has been calculated should be made clear.

 

Conciliation

 

• Complaints by clients should be made to the instructor/school in the first instance and follow the complaints procedure issued by the instructor/school.

• Failing agreement or settlement of a dispute reference may be made to DSA to consider the matter and advise accordingly.

 

DSA, The Axis Building, 112 Upper Parliament Street, Nottingham, NG1 6LP

Tel: 0300 200 1122      www.dsa.gov.uk