When you pay for driving lessons, you expect someone to check the teaching as well as your driving. Yet DVSA admits that most approved driving instructors did not receive a standards check in 2024/25.
Its September 2026 Despatch update acknowledges that this leaves insufficient assurance about consistent standards. For learners focused on securing a driving test booking, it raises another question: how can you judge the tuition you are paying for?
Why Have Checks Fallen Behind?
DVSA reports that applications to become an instructor have risen by 152% since 2018/19. Meanwhile, Part 3 pass rates dropped from 33.8% in 2023/24 to 27.7% in 2025/26, adding pressure through retests.
The staffing problem matters too. Examiners conducting instructor tests and standards checks come from the wider examiner workforce but need additional training. DVSA says ADI services have not always had sufficient resources.
This also raises concerns for learners considering an intensive driving course, as proper instructor training and regular standards checks remain essential to maintaining teaching quality.
Does This Mean Your Instructor Is Poor?
No. A missed check does not establish that an instructor teaches badly. It does, however, leave a gap in independent oversight.
Look at what happens during your lessons. Does your instructor explain mistakes clearly? Do you know what you need to improve? Are you becoming less dependent on prompts?
Before you book your driving test, ask for specific feedback. “You’re nearly ready” is less useful than knowing which decisions you still struggle to make independently.
What Is DVSA Doing About It?
DVSA plans to recruit more ADI examiners, expand training capacity and develop alternative routes into examiner roles. It also says standards checks are increasing, although improvements will take time.
Performance indicators are only one factor in selecting instructors for checks. DVSA says there is no fixed timing for an individual check.
Conclusion: What Should You Ask Before Choosing Lessons?
If you are considering an intensive driving course, ask how the school assesses your starting ability and adjusts lessons when something needs more practice. A packed timetable should still leave room for proper feedback.
Searching for an “intensive driving course with test included london”? Check what “included” covers: the test fee, car use or booking guidance. Get those details before paying.
LIDT offers intensive tuition and lesson-progress tracking through our learner app. Speak to our team about your experience, available time and areas needing work before choosing a course.
FAQs
1. What does ADI mean?
ADI stands for approved driving instructor.
2. What is a standards check?
It assesses an instructor’s teaching against the national standard for driver training.
3. Does the DVSA post confirm 527 checks?
No. It says most ADIs received no check in 2024/25, without giving that total.
4. Should I change instructors immediately?
A missed check alone is not a reason. Consider the teaching, feedback and progress you receive.
5. Will more checks guarantee a pass?
No. Checks assess teaching standards; your result depends on your driving during the test.