Driving instructor insurance ... and learners' own cars

RISK
The key issue here is risk. Firstly that of legality, secondly the lack of dual controls.

LEGALITY
Anyone can accompany a driver as long as they are over 21 and having held a licence in the category of vehicle for minimum 3 years. There is no insurance requirement.

As an ADI we have an additional responsibility because we are a business. We, therefore, have a duty of care and are required to approach safety from a professional standpoint.

The ADI badge is required if money OR equivalent is being given for tuition, and must be on display in the window.

YOUR INSURANCE
Your car insurance is irrelevant, unless you are driving their car under it. This is likely to be 3rd party only and it may be exempt as your lesson is for commercial reasons.  Check.

THEIR INSURANCE
This needs to cover ‘paid for tuition’ as we can invalidate the policy. 2 other things worth checking are: [1] The driving test - if planning to take the test in it. [2] The journey home after passing as they may no longer be covered. In some cases the car may be uninsured when they pass, leaving the car undriveable until insurance is in place (including under someone else 3rd party cover).

PI/PL COVER
Many ADIs do not have Professional Indemnity or Professional Liability cover, but in my experience it is essential. If someone makes a legal challenge against you and your business or can protect you against the costs of defending it. The cover that comes with car insurance usually only covers ‘wheels moving’ incidents. There is information on PI/PL on theditc.co.uk

ROADWORTHINESS
There are also risks from the roadworthiness of the vehicle and any liability. If you have a crash you may have to claim on their insurance. These things should be addressed before lessons start - there is a free set of private vehicle T&Cs on theditc.co.uk

Done well it can be great. Done badly, it can be a white-knuckle ride!

(Top Tip: Any time you start, set up the signal that if you raise your hand and say stop you really mean it!