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Defensive Driving Instructor Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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Driving Instructor

Champlain, NY · On-site

$29 - $38/hr

... defensive driving techniques. * Conduct behind-the-wheel training in accordance with FMCSA and ... Participate in instructor meetings, continuing education, and curriculum improvements as requested.

Bee Line Logistics

Driving Instructor

Champlain, NY · On-site

$29 - $38/hr

... defensive driving techniques. * Conduct behind-the-wheel training in accordance with FMCSA and ... Participate in instructor meetings, continuing education, and curriculum improvements as requested.

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How much do defensive driving instructor jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for defensive driving instructor in the United States is $21.37, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.31 and $21.63 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 much does a defensive driving instructor make?

A defensive driving instructor typically earns between $25,000 and $50,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and whether they work for a driving school or independently. Many instructors also earn additional income through certifications or specialized training programs.

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 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.

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. Strong communication skills and knowledge of traffic laws are essential for this role.

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. Opportunities are often available through driving schools, community programs, and online platforms, especially in regions with high vehicle usage. Certification in defensive driving techniques and good communication skills are typically required for employment.

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.

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 teaching experience. It is important to stay updated on state-specific regulations and obtain any necessary instructor certifications.

What cities are hiring for Defensive Driving Instructor jobs?

Cities with the most Defensive Driving Instructor job openings:

What states have the most Defensive Driving Instructor jobs?

States with the most job openings for Defensive Driving Instructor jobs include:

Defensive Driving Instructor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Defensive Driving Instructor job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 70% Full Time, 28% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $44,459 per year, or $21.4 per hour.

Driving School Instructor

American Automobile Association (AAA)

Portland, ME

$20 - $22/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 9 days ago

AAA The Auto Club Group rating

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 283 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

229th of 308 rated insurance

Job description

Driving School Instructor

AAA has immediate openings for full-time Driving Instructors!

As a Driving Instructor on the AAA Driving School team, you will have an opportunity to make a difference in traffic safety in your local community by educating teens and adults on the fundamentals of safe driving. You will be trained to instruct new drivers both in the classroom and behind the wheel. You will be responsible for teaching safe driving techniques to students of all ages and experience levels, provide a positive learning environment, be patient and have excellent knowledge of state driving laws and regulations. Everyone remembers their first driving instructor and you can be that person to make a difference and instill a sense of safety and responsibility in your students as they begin their journey as a new driver. In this role, you will be provided with:

  • Paid licensing and training

  • Tuition assistance

  • Competitive salary with eligibility to participate in our incentive program.

  • Schedule your own work week!

What you'll do:

  • Every day, you will conduct classroom and behind-the-wheel training to drivers of all ages and experience levels as prescribed by the AAA Driving School curriculum and training program.

  • You will utilize our driving school software to record and maintain student progress.

  • You will have responsibility for evaluating student's performance and provide additional support as needed.

  • You will schedule driving appointments, maintain up to date knowledge of state DMV laws and regulations, maintain knowledge of safe driving and defensive driving practices and maintain all records required by the state of Portland, ME.

What You'll Need:

  • You have comprehensive knowledge of state and local traffic laws, ordinances, safety policies and procedures.

  • You will have basic skills in Word and Excel to schedule students and complete reports.

  • You are confident in your ability to interact well with the public and teens specifically.

  • You have a strong motivation to improve safe driving practices of all drivers.

  • You are flexible enough to accommodate the availability of our students, which means working weekday schedules starting as late as 12 pm during the school year and teaching on at least one weekend day per week.

Must Haves:

  • You must be 21 years of age with 4 years of driving experience.

  • High School Diploma or equivalent

  • Valid driver's license and an acceptable driving record

  • Pass a background check and drug test.

The starting pay range for this position is $20.00 - $22.00 per hour. Additionally, after completion of your first year in the role, you will be eligible to participate in our incentive program based upon your team and individual performance.

Remarkable benefits:

Health coverage for medical, dental, vision

401(K) saving plans with company match AND Pension

Tuition assistance

Floating holidays and PTO for community volunteer programs

Paid parental leave

Wellness programs

Employee discounts (membership, insurance,

travel, entertainment, services and more!)

Auto Club Enterprises is the largest club within the national AAA federation. We have nearly 17,000 employees in 24 states helping more than 18 million members. The strength of our organization is our employees. Bringing together and supporting different cultures, backgrounds, personalities, and strengths creates a team capable of delivering legendary, lifetime service to our members. When we embrace our diversity - we win. All of Us! With our national brand recognition, long-standing reputation since 1900, and constantly growing membership, we are seeking career-minded, service-driven professionals to join our team.

"Through dedicated employees we proudly deliver legendary service and beneficial products that provide members peace of mind and value."

AAA is an Equal Opportunity Employer

Our organization participates in E-Verify

What AAA The Auto Club Group employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

American Automobile Association logo

About American Automobile Association

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

The American Automobile Association (AAA), headquartered in Heathrow, Florida, USA, is a reputable force in the automotive and insurance industry. Originating in 1902, it began as a coalition of motor clubs with the common goal of providing better roads and travel conditions for motorists. Today, AAA is a comprehensive, multifaceted organization that offers a range of services, including roadside assistance, auto repair services, travel agency services, and diverse insurance products - Auto, Home, Life and more. A significant principle for AAA is to continuously deliver value to their 61 million members through safety, security and peace of mind. The company's mission and core values focus on championing its members' rights and interests, advocating innovation, integrity, teamwork and respect.

Industry

Non-profits

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Heathrow, FL, US

Year founded

1902

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