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Defensive Driving Instructor Jobs in Texas (NOW HIRING)

... • Driving instructor experience • Motorsports or performance driving experience • Knowledge of vehicle technology and control systems • Defensive driving or safe driving certifications ...

Serve as a certified defensive driving instructor, providing training as needed. * Maintain OSHA 501 and/or 502 certifications and deliver compliance training based on company guidelines. This ...

Serve as a certified defensive driving instructor, providing training as needed. * Maintain OSHA 501 and/or 502 certifications and deliver compliance training based on company guidelines. This ...

Safety Specialist

Dallas, TX · On-site

$66K - $96K/yr

Serve as a certified defensive driving instructor, providing training as needed. * Maintain OSHA 501 and/or 502 certifications and deliver compliance training based on company guidelines. This ...

Serve as a certified defensive driving instructor, providing training as needed. * Maintain OSHA 501 and/or 502 certifications and deliver compliance training based on company guidelines. This ...

Safety Driver

Austin, TX · On-site

$25/hr

Experience as an autonomous vehicle operator, driving instructor, motorsports racer, or in another ... Additional courses in Safety Driving or Defensive Driving Benefits * Pre-tax commuter benefits

Safety Driver

Austin, TX · On-site

$25/hr

Experience as an autonomous vehicle operator, driving instructor, motorsports racer, or in another ... Additional courses in Safety Driving or Defensive Driving Benefits * Pre-tax commuter benefits

Safety Driver

Austin, TX · On-site

$25/hr

Experience as an autonomous vehicle operator, driving instructor, motorsports racer, or in another ... Additional courses in Safety Driving or Defensive Driving Benefits * Pre-tax commuter benefits

Safety Driver

Austin, TX · On-site

$25/hr

Experience as an autonomous vehicle operator, driving instructor, motorsports racer, or in another ... Additional courses in Safety Driving or Defensive Driving Benefits * Pre-tax commuter benefits

Class A CDL Instructor

Odessa, TX · On-site

$18.25 - $23.50/hr

Position Details Position Information Working Title Class A CDL Instructor Position Status ... backing maneuvers, defensive driving techniques, and driving safety techniques. * Maintain ...

CDL Instructor

Austin, TX · On-site

$21.25 - $27.50/hr

CDL Instructor The CDL Instructor delivers classroom, range, and behind-the-wheel instruction for ... Demonstrated knowledge of safe driving practices, defensive driving techniques, and tractor-trailer ...

Showing results 21-40

Defensive Driving Instructor information

See Texas salary details

$5

$19

$36

How much do defensive driving instructor jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for defensive driving instructor in Texas is $19.91, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.11 and $20.14 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a defensive driving instructor?

Defensive Driving Instructors are professionals who teach individuals how to drive safely by anticipating and responding to potential hazards on the road. They provide classroom instruction and practical driving exercises that emphasize accident prevention, safe driving techniques, and adherence to traffic laws. Their goal is to help drivers reduce the risk of collisions by fostering good driving habits, awareness, and responsibility. Defensive Driving Instructors may work with new drivers, experienced drivers seeking to improve their skills, or individuals required to attend courses due to traffic violations. They are typically certified and must stay updated on laws and best practices in road safety.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a defensive driving instructor, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Defensive Driving Instructor, you generally need a valid driver’s license, a clean driving record, and experience in safe driving practices, often supported by instructor certification. Familiarity with state-approved defensive driving curricula, classroom presentation tools, and sometimes online learning platforms is essential. Excellent communication, patience, and the ability to motivate and engage diverse learners are standout soft skills in this role. These abilities ensure students understand and retain critical safety information, leading to safer roads and successful course outcomes.

What are some common challenges faced by defensive driving instructors, and how can they be managed?

Defensive Driving Instructors often encounter students with varying levels of driving experience and confidence, which can make it challenging to maintain class engagement and ensure that everyone understands the material. Additionally, instructors may need to address misconceptions or resistance to safer driving habits. Successfully managing these challenges involves using a variety of teaching methods, fostering open communication, and creating a supportive learning environment. Regularly updating your instructional techniques and staying informed on traffic laws can also help you adapt to diverse student needs.

What is the difference between Defensive Driving Instructor vs Traffic Safety Educator?

AspectDefensive Driving InstructorTraffic Safety Educator
CredentialsDriver's license, teaching certification, defensive driving course certificationTraffic safety certification, educational background in traffic safety or public safety
Work EnvironmentDriving schools, community colleges, corporate trainingGovernment agencies, schools, community programs
Industry UsageFocuses on driver skill improvement and safetyFocuses on broader traffic safety awareness and education

While both roles aim to improve road safety, Defensive Driving Instructors primarily teach defensive driving techniques to drivers, often through practical courses. Traffic Safety Educators focus on broader traffic safety awareness campaigns and educational programs. The roles overlap in certification requirements and industry settings but differ in scope and focus.

How do I become a defensive driving instructor?

To become a defensive driving instructor, you typically need to have a valid driver's license, several years of driving experience, and complete a state-approved instructor training program. Some states also require passing written and practical exams, background checks, and obtaining an instructor certification or license before teaching defensive driving courses.

How to become a defensive driving instructor?

To become a defensive driving instructor, you typically need to hold a valid driver's license, have a clean driving record, and complete a state-approved instructor training program. Certification requirements may include passing written and practical exams, and some states require background checks and ongoing education to maintain certification.

Is there still a high demand for defensive driving instructors?

Demand for defensive driving instructors remains steady as driver safety education continues to be important for licensing and insurance requirements. Employment opportunities are often influenced by state regulations, driving school growth, and the need for certified instructors with proper licensing and training. Overall, the role maintains consistent demand in regions with active driver education programs.
Infographic showing various Defensive Driving Instructor job openings in Texas as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 62% Full Time, and 38% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $41,421 per year, or $19.9 per hour.

Driver - Non CDL

Dallas, TX • On-site

$25/hr

Other

Medical, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 3 days ago


Job description

We are hiring Autonomous Vehicle Safety Drivers to support the testing and development of advanced autonomous vehicle technology. This is an excellent opportunity for safety-focused drivers who want to work with cutting-edge transportation systems while contributing directly to the future of mobility.
In this role, you will operate autonomous test vehicles, monitor vehicle performance, collect operational data, and provide feedback to engineering and operations teams. Ideal candidates have exceptional driving skills, strong situational awareness, and a commitment to maintaining the highest safety standards.
Compensation & Benefits
$25.00 per hour
• Full-time opportunity
• Consistent full-time schedules
• Work with advanced autonomous vehicle technology
• Opportunity to contribute to next-generation transportation systems
Job Details
• Safely operate autonomous vehicles on public roads
• Collect critical data on vehicle and system performance
• Monitor vehicle behavior during testing
• Conduct daily vehicle inspections and readiness checks
• Document observations, issues, and route information
• Provide feedback to engineering and operations teams
• Interact professionally with riders, engineers, and company leadership
• Remain alert and prepared for unexpected driving situations
• Maintain strict safety standards at all times
Available Shifts
AM Shift
• 6:00 AM - 2:30 PM
PM Shift
• 4:30 PM - 1:00 AM
Available Schedules
• Monday - Friday
• Tuesday - Saturday
• Wednesday - Sunday
• Thursday - Monday
• Friday - Tuesday
• Saturday - Wednesday
• Sunday - Thursday
Requirements
• Valid U.S. Driver's License with at least 3 years of driving history
• Clean driving record
• No DUI, drug-related, or alcohol-related offenses within the last 5 years
• Strong knowledge of traffic laws and safe driving practices
• Ability to anticipate hazards and react safely
• Excellent attention to detail
• Strong communication skills
• Ability to remain focused for extended periods
• Comfortable driving in varying weather and road conditions
• High level of responsibility and professionalism
Preferred Qualifications
• Autonomous vehicle operator experience
• Electric vehicle experience
• Driving instructor experience
• Motorsports or performance driving experience
• Knowledge of vehicle technology and control systems
• Defensive driving or safe driving certifications
Benefits
• Pre-tax commuter benefits
• Employer-subsidized healthcare benefits
• Flexible Spending Account (FSA)
• Company-paid short-term disability coverage
• Company-paid long-term disability coverage
• Company-paid life insurance
• 401(k) program
Why Join?
• Work on the forefront of autonomous vehicle innovation
• Gain valuable experience with advanced vehicle technology
• Stable full-time contract opportunity
• Professional and safety-focused work environment
• Opportunity to help shape the future of transportation
If you're an experienced, safety-minded driver looking to work with cutting-edge autonomous vehicle technology, apply today.