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Driving Test Booking Rules Changed In 2026 What Driving Instructors Need To Know
The Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) has introduced major changes to the way practical driving tests are booked and managed in 2026.
Teaching
Common Driving Lesson Myths: What's True, What's Not
Learning to drive comes with plenty of “I heard that…” advice. Some of it is harmless. Some can waste lesson time, cause test-day surprises, or even push learners into breaking the rules.
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Below are common driving lesson myths, backed by GOV.UK
Myth 1: “Learners aren’t allowed on motorways at all”
reality
Learners can take motorway lessons in England, Scotland, and Wales. They must be with an approved driving instructor and in a dual-controlled car.
Why it matters:
Learners sometimes avoid motorway training entirely, then feel unprepared after passing.
Instructors can offer motorway lessons when they judge the learner is ready.
Myth 2: “Anyone can teach a learner driver”
reality
To teach a learner in private practice, the supervisor must meet specific rules. Including being at least 21 and having held a full driving licence for at least 3 years, among other requirements.
Also, learners must follow learner-driver legal requirements, including having proper supervision.
Myth 3: “It’s fine to ‘chip in for fuel’ if a friend or family member is teaching me”
reality
Official guidance says it’s illegal to accept any payment, including money for fuel, when teaching someone learning to drive (outside the paid-instruction rules). Only ADI and PDI instructors can accept payment for lessons.
Why it matters:
This catches people out because it feels like you’re not truly paying for lessons.
It can create risk for both parties if something goes wrong.
Myth 4: “You don’t really need L plates if you’re practising somewhere quiet”
reality
Any vehicle driven by a learner must show red L plates (or D plates in Wales). These plates must be easy to see and follow legal rules.
Myth 5: “If you’re just practising, insurance details don’t matter as much”
reality
You need to be able to show a valid insurance certificate if the police ask for it.
Any private lessons must occur with a supervisor and the learner driver carrying full insurance.
What to take from this:
Learners should not assume they’re “automatically covered”.
Instructors can reduce confusion by educating learners about their insurance coverage for lessons versus private practice. The learner must have full insurance in place.
Myth 6: “An instructor doesn’t need to display their badge”
reality
Instructors must show their ADI registration on the passenger-side edge of the front windscreen during driving lessons. The guidance warns that you can be prosecuted you for using an invalid badge or one that isn’t yours.
Why this is important for learners to know:
Some learners confuse “instructor” with “experienced driver”, especially when booking informally. Knowing that an instructor must display their ADI registration helps you verify that you’ve booked a qualified professional.
A driving instructor that is ADI will also need to be CRB and DBS checked to work. Adding that extra layer of personal security for learners.
Myth 7: “A learner can practise motorway driving with a parent, as long as they’re careful”
reality
The motorway permission for learners is tied to approved driving instructor supervision and dual controls. The government announcement explicitly frames motorway lessons as ADI-led.
Myth 8: “The rules are the same everywhere in the UK”
reality
Many rules align across the UK, but details can vary by nation or context. For example, D plates in Wales are permitted. Official sources often specify where guidance applies and what variants exist.
Remember
Government guidance on driving instruction is a fluid thing. To make sure you’re on top of legal requirements it’s best practice to stay up-to-date with The Highway Code.
BG Insurance Team
Driving Instructor Insurance Specialists
The BG Insurance Editorial Team writes practical, expert-led content for UK driving instructors, trainee instructors and driving schools. As a specialist driving instructor insurance broker, BG Insurance helps instructors understand their cover, manage risk and protect their business on the road.
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Join over 9,000 driving professionals who trust BG Insurance to protect their livelihood.
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