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Defensive Driving Jobs in New York (NOW HIRING)

Driving Instructor

Matawan, NJ · On-site

$19 - $22/hr

Teaches defensive driving and safe driving habits. * Monitors students' automobile operation skills on the road and identifies areas for improvement. * Teaches students how to handle vehicle ...

Driving Instructor

Matawan, NJ · On-site

$19 - $22/hr

Teaches defensive driving and safe driving habits. * Monitors students' automobile operation skills on the road and identifies areas for improvement. * Teaches students how to handle vehicle ...

Must obtain defensive driving certificate within 6 months of employment. * Bilingual preferred. * Able to travel to multiple locations within the five boroughs as needed. * Frequently lifts and/or ...

Must obtain defensive driving certificate within 6 months of employment. * Bilingual preferred. * Able to travel to multiple locations within the five boroughs as needed. * Frequently lifts and/or ...

Must obtain defensive driving certificate within 6 months of employment. * Bilingual preferred. * Able to travel to multiple locations within the five boroughs as needed. * Frequently lifts and/or ...

Once fully cleared by Phaxis, the candidates will come to our Orientation and would be trained by Life's WORC (at a training rate of $15 per hour) in SCIP, CPR & Defensive Driving. Once fully trained ...

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Defensive Driving information

See New York salary details

$6

$23

$43

How much do defensive driving jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average hourly pay for defensive driving in New York is $23.38, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.94 and $23.65 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is defensive driving?

Defensive driving is a set of skills and techniques that help drivers anticipate and respond to potential hazards on the road. It goes beyond basic traffic laws by teaching drivers how to identify risks, avoid accidents, and make safe decisions in challenging situations. Defensive drivers stay alert, maintain safe following distances, and are prepared for the unexpected actions of other motorists. This approach reduces the likelihood of collisions and promotes overall 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 need in-depth knowledge of traffic laws, safe driving techniques, and typically a valid driver’s license with a clean record, often supported by instructor certification. Familiarity with training materials, driving simulators, and online course platforms is commonly required. Exceptional communication, patience, and motivational skills help engage students and reinforce safe driving behaviors. These competencies are crucial for effectively teaching safe driving habits and reducing accident risks on the road.

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

Defensive driving instructors often face challenges such as engaging students with varying skill levels, addressing misconceptions about safe driving, and keeping classes interactive. To address these, instructors use real-world scenarios, hands-on activities, and up-to-date educational materials to relate key concepts effectively. Creating a supportive learning environment and encouraging open discussion can also help students feel comfortable sharing their experiences and learning from mistakes, which enhances overall course effectiveness.

What is the difference between Defensive Driving vs Commercial Driver?

AspectDefensive DrivingCommercial Driver
Required CertificationsNone or Defensive Driving CourseCommercial Driver's License (CDL)
Work EnvironmentPersonal vehicles, driving schools, corporate fleetsTrucks, buses, commercial vehicles
Industry UsageTransportation safety, personal driving improvementFreight, passenger transport, logistics

Defensive Driving focuses on safe driving techniques to prevent accidents, often requiring no special license. Commercial Driver involves operating large vehicles and requires a CDL license. While both roles emphasize safety, Commercial Drivers work in a more regulated environment with specific certifications, whereas Defensive Driving is more about personal skill enhancement.

How do you become a defensive driver?

To become a defensive driver, you should complete a defensive driving course to learn techniques for anticipating and responding to hazards, maintain a safe following distance, stay alert, and obey traffic laws. Developing good observation skills and staying focused on the road are essential for preventing accidents and ensuring safety while driving professionally.

What job categories do people searching Defensive Driving jobs in New York look for?

The top searched job categories for Defensive Driving jobs in New York are:

Infographic showing various Defensive Driving job openings in New York as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 68% Full Time, 30% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $48,640 per year, or $23.4 per hour.

Part-Time Instructor - Defensive Driving

National Safety Council

Hauppauge, NY • On-site

$35/hr

Part-time

Re-posted 4 days ago


Job description

Save lives, from the workplace to anyplace.
The National Safety Council is America's leading safety advocate. We enable people to put everyday strategies in place to solve problems - at work. As a non-profit, our focus is on eliminating the leading causes of preventable death and injury. More specifically, NSC is focused on:
  • Workplace Safety
  • Roadway Security
  • Impairment

Every one of our employees is committed to helping people live their fullest lives, and right now we're seeking someone to fill the role of Part-Time Instructors -Defensive Driving Course (DDC).
Position Highlights:
Our part-time instructors support our mission by teaching adult and teen-focused classroom courses about the importance of safe driving. Classes are conducted weekends, weekdays, and in the evening. Depending on the curriculum being taught, classes can range from four to eight hours of instruction time. Part-time instructors are able to choose their own schedule and teach as much or as little as they want.
As a Part-Time Instructor you'll teach life-saving Driver Safety Course curriculum to a variety of motorists including those that may be state or court required to attend a mandatory driver retraining program. Full instructor certification training and materials are provided to qualified candidates.
We're Looking for Someone with:
  • Experience in public speaking with the ability to lead effective classroom discussions, and to be able to handle a diverse group of students.
  • A background in sociology, psychology, counseling, or education
  • Personal email address required for e-communication with our Instructor Portal & DDC Information Highway.
  • The ability to deal with unexpected difficulties such as equipment failures, facility issues, individuals with learning or behavioral difficulties, and/or disruptions to class.
  • Bilingual in English, Spanish, or Portuguese a plus!
  • Weekend availability preferred
  • Pay rate starts at $35/hr
  • Preferred locations - Hauppauge, NY

Continuous Recruitment Notice
The National Safety Council continuously accepts applications for part-time instructors to establish a broad and diverse pool of available candidates. By submitting an application for this posting you are applying to be a part of NSC's pool for potential employment as an instructor.
NSC is an equal opportunity employer.