Certified driver education instructors work in secondary schools and for privately owned driving schools. Each state establishes prerequisites for certified driver's education instructors, and the department of motor vehicles is the state agency that governs certification. Before you can be hired to teach driving, you must fulfill state requirements and the steps toward certification.
Step 1
Ensure that you meet the minimum state requirements to teach driver's education. In most cases, you must be at least 21 years old, possess a valid driver's license and reside in the state you desire to teach in. Some states also impose educational requirements, such as a high school diploma or GED. State departments of motor vehicles or departments of transportation determine the exact prerequisites.
Step 2
Enroll in and successfully complete a driver's education teacher certification class. State DMV offices provide a list of schools that are approved and licensed to teach this class.
Step 3
Submit an application for driver instructor certification. Depending on the state, you may be required to submit a processing fee with your application.
Step 4
Consent to a criminal background check and driving records check. Traffic violations on your driving record or a criminal past may decrease your chances of getting certification.
Step 5
Take the state driver's education instructor certification exam. If you score a passing grade on the exam, you will receive credentials certifying you to teach driver's education. Some states also require you to submit proof from a driving school that you are being hired as an instructor.
