DVSA has published an updated code of practice for driving instructors. When it comes in, it will be mandatory, replacing the old voluntary code and the ADI register guide. DVSA hasn't confirmed the exact date yet, but it's due between late 2026 and early 2027.
A lot of PDIs I speak to assume it's something for qualified instructors to worry about. It isn't. If you hold a trainee licence, it applies to you too, and it has a whole section written specifically about trainees.
Here's what you need to know.
You'll have to agree to it
When you apply for a trainee licence, you'll have to declare that you've read the code and agree to follow it. So "I didn't know" won't be an excuse. Read it now, while you've got time, rather than skimming it the night before you apply.
The trainee licence is for learning
This is the part that matters most for PDIs. In DVSA's own words, trainee licences "are for genuine learning, not a shortcut to get instructors working before they're fully qualified."
Under the new code, trainees must:
Complete and keep a record of their training hours and supervision
Work only from their sponsoring driving school or ADI
Apply for their Part 3 test
Never work independently or suggest they're a qualified ADI
If you don't stick to this, your trainee licence can be refused or taken away.
This ties in with something I say a lot. The pink licence is a training licence, not a way of working. The new code puts that in writing.
Everyday things that catch people out
Some of the rules are worth knowing because they're easy to slip up on:
Your phone. No using a phone or hand-held device while instructing, and no taking calls, even hands-free. If you need your tablet, park safely and turn the engine off first.
Your certificate. Display your trainee certificate in the windscreen during paid lessons.
Booking tests. You can't book, change or swap car driving tests for your pupils. They book their own.
Social media. Get written consent before you post photos, videos or details of a pupil. That includes the "just passed" photo.
AI tools. If you use AI to make learning materials, you're responsible for them being accurate.
Reporting. You must tell DVSA within 7 days about any allegation, caution or conviction, including motoring offences.
Professional, on and off duty
The code is clear that you represent the profession even when you're not working. How you behave outside lessons, including online, can be taken into account. Safeguarding gets a lot more attention too, especially around under-18s and vulnerable adults, and keeping proper professional boundaries with pupils.
What this means for you
None of this should worry a PDI who's doing things properly. If you're training, being supervised, working towards your Part 3 and treating pupils professionally, you're already most of the way there.
But it's a good moment to take stock. Are your training records up to date? Is your sponsor supporting you the way they should? Are you using the pink licence to learn, or just to work?
If the honest answer to that last one makes you uncomfortable, it might be time to get some proper training in place.
How I can help
I work with PDIs who want to do things properly and qualify, not just get by. I offer in car training in and around Yorkshire, and online training for PDIs anywhere in the country.
If you want to talk through where you are with your training, drop me an email.
Mick
You can read the full code of practice on GOV.UK.