Want to pursue your career as a driving instructor but need to know how to become a driving instructor in Ontario? Becoming a driving instructor is a rewarding and fulfilling career for those interested in teaching others. Sometimes, becoming a licensed driving instructor in Ontario is tricky, as there are many requirements to fulfill. So, knowledge of how to become a driving instructor in Ontario is mandatory.
In this article, we will give a complete guide to how to become a driving instructor in Ontario.
What is a Driving Instructor?
A driving instructor in Ontario is a teacher who is certified to teach students about vehicle operation, particularly driving safety. These official lessons can be used to prepare learners for their first driver’s license. A driving instructor will help you specialize in various types of vehicles, such as trucks, limousines, buses, and motorcycles. Driving instructors assist students in preparing them for the practical exam required to obtain their license. These professionals design lesson plans for classroom instruction, devise hands-on practice techniques, and provide feedback to their pupils.
Requirements to Apply for a Driving instructor
To become a driving instructor in Ontario, you should meet all these requirements for obtaining a driving instructor license.
- A valid Ontario driver’s license (other than a G1, G2, M1, M2, or M (L)) is required.
- You must be at least 18 years old.
- You must have no demerit points on your driving record.
- To guarantee that you meet the standards, you must pass a terminal check at an Ontario DriveTest center.
- Vision standards set by the Ontario Ministry of Transportation (MTO) must be met.
- Must pass a G1 knowledge test.
- Must pass a G highway test
- Must pass a vulnerable sector check (a police screening)
- Must complete a driving instructor’s course certified by the MTO.
Steps to Obtain a Driving Instructor License
To get familiar with the application for Ontario driving instructor license, there are some essential steps. These steps will lead you to a career as a driving instructor in Ontario.
To Apply, visit the Drive-test Center
To apply for a driving instructor license in Ontario, you must pass a DriveTest Center exam. When you access DriveTest, you must show a valid Ontario driver’s license and fill out the Application for Ontario Driving Instructor Licence form. DriveTest staff will review your driving record to guarantee you are qualified to become an Ontario driving instructor.
Enroll in a Driver Education Training Program
Full-time and part-time driving instructor training courses are available. It usually takes four weeks full-time and twelve weeks part-time (evenings and weekends). During the in-class portion, you will study driving theory and Ontario traffic laws. You’ll become familiar with the Highway Traffic Act and the methods to accomplish both simple and advanced driving operations.
Pay the Application Fee
When you pay your first fee, remember that it is non-refundable. The initial cost is subject to change because the MTO determines it. Your first fee can be paid in
- Cash
- By Visa
- Mastercard
- Interac
- Canadian travelers check.
Study
When teaching to drive, you must be proficient in both the Official MTO Driver’s Handbook and the Highway Traffic Act. Before you proceed, you should know both of these like the back of your hand.
Complete a vision test
This vision test is performed at an Ontario DriveTest center and usually takes only a few minutes. After successfully passing the vision test, your next step will be to pass the G1 Knowledge test.
Pass the G1 Knowledge Test
It just takes approximately 30 minutes, and there is no need to make an appointment. Taking this test ensures that you retain basic driving knowledge.
NOTE: If you fail your exam, you can pay the price and retake it. If you fail twice in consecutive months, you must wait a year before trying again.
Complete the G (highway) Road Test
A driver is going to evaluate your advanced driving abilities. This, like the G1 test, will be the same test you took when you received your G. It will also be the same one you will use to educate your future students. These appointments are often offered on a first-come, first-served basis.
Obtain a Criminal Record and Judicial Matters Check
Pass a criminal record and judicial matters check CRJMC must be obtained and filed with the Ministry of Ontario. This will determine whether it is appropriate for you to work with and teach vulnerable people.
You can complete this process online or at a nearby police station.
Start this process before exams because, depending on your jurisdiction, these checks can take a few days or even weeks.
MTO Approved Driving Instructor Test
Complete an mto approved driving instructor training course that will teach you how to build this competence. These courses may take several weeks or months to complete. The courses include in-class and in-vehicle topics, such as avoiding accidents, First Aid, and the Highway Traffic Act.
The finishing touches
You can get a temporary driving instructor license after finishing the driving instructor training course. Written test, the G-Class road test, and have the CRJMC cleared by the MTO. You will require the opposite side of the instructor application form completed by the driving instructor course instructor, including signature.
Meeting all criteria before attending the driving instructor course will allow you to complete each step before the one-year deadline. After completing these steps, driving instructor applicants should return to a DriveTest Center for processing. A modest cost will be asked once they confirm you have completed all steps. Once you’ve paid, they’ll give you a temporary driving teacher’s license. After a few weeks, you will receive your permanent license in the mail.
Things to keep in Mind Before Instructing Novice Drivers in Driving
There are some crucial points to keep in mind when you start instructing your novice drivers to drive:
- To teach driving lessons to G1 students, you must partner with a ministry-approved driving school.
- To protect yourself and your students when delivering lessons, you must obtain a 6D certification on your motor insurance.
- To work as a driving instructor in your city, you may need to apply for a municipal license.
- Your car must be equipped with dual brakes.
- The driving school will provide you with a rooftop sign.
Conclusion
To become a driving instructor in Ontario, you must first meet specific qualifications, complete training, and pass tests. It’s a satisfying job that involves offering students safe driving techniques. However, it is critical to follow all rules and regulations to ensure your learner’s safety and success on the road.
