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Professional Driving Instructor Jobs in Columbia, MD

Life Time

Kids Instructor

Annapolis, MD

$16/hr

Kids Instructors may also host parties and other events. Job Duties and Responsibilities ... Greets, acknowledges, and interacts with members and guests in a friendly and professional manner

Life Time

Kids Instructor

Gaithersburg, MD

$17.25/hr

Kids Instructors may also host parties and other events. Job Duties and Responsibilities ... Greets, acknowledges, and interacts with members and guests in a friendly and professional manner

Arlington County, VA

Safety Specialist

Arlington, VA · On-site

$79K - $122K/yr

ASP (Associate Safety Professional) or CSP (Certified Safety Professional) designation; * Certification as a Defensive Driving Instructor; * OSHA Outreach Trainer certifications; * CDL License; and ...

Career Site

Group Fitness Instructor

Washington, DC

... driving ROI through thoughtful programming, operational excellence, and seamless service. The Arch ... Be professionally dressed and ready with music cued and the routine prepared prior to the start of ...

Career Site

Group Fitness Instructor

Bethesda, MD

... driving ROI through thoughtful programming, operational excellence, and seamless service. The Arch ... Be professionally dressed and ready with music cued and the routine prepared prior to the start of ...

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All JobsProfessional Driving Instructor JobsProfessional Driving Instructor Jobs in Columbia, MD

Professional Driving Instructor information

See Columbia, MD salary details

$6

$21

$39

How much do professional driving instructor jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 25, 2026, the average hourly pay for professional driving instructor in Columbia, MD is $21.21, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.16 and $21.49 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a professional driving instructor?

Professional driving instructors are certified individuals who teach people how to drive vehicles safely and responsibly. They provide both theoretical and practical lessons on road rules, traffic laws, vehicle operation, and defensive driving techniques. Driving instructors work with new drivers, those seeking to improve their driving skills, or individuals needing to retake driving tests. Instructors are required to have specialized training and licensing to ensure they are knowledgeable about current regulations and effective teaching methods.

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

To thrive as a Professional Driving Instructor, you need thorough knowledge of road safety, traffic laws, defensive driving techniques, and typically a valid instructor certification or license. Familiarity with dual-control vehicles, driving simulation tools, and record-keeping systems is often required. Patience, effective communication, and the ability to remain calm under pressure are standout soft skills in this role. These skills are crucial for ensuring student safety, clear instruction, and fostering confident, responsible drivers.

What are some common challenges professional driving instructors face when teaching new drivers?

Professional Driving Instructors often encounter challenges such as adapting their teaching style to suit learners with varying confidence levels and learning speeds. They must remain patient and attentive, especially with nervous or inexperienced students, while ensuring safety at all times. Instructors also need to stay updated on traffic laws and best practices, and they often work flexible hours, including evenings and weekends, to accommodate students’ schedules. Effective communication and the ability to calmly manage stressful situations are key to overcoming these challenges.

What is the difference between Professional Driving Instructor vs Driving School Owner?

AspectProfessional Driving InstructorDriving School Owner
CredentialsRequires driving instructor certification and licensingRequires business licensing, may also need instructor certifications
Work EnvironmentTeaches students in vehicles, driving schools, or training centersManages the overall driving school operations
Employer & Industry UsageEmployed by driving schools or self-employed as freelance instructorsOwns or manages a driving school business

While a Professional Driving Instructor focuses on teaching individuals how to drive, a Driving School Owner manages the entire driving school business, including hiring instructors and overseeing operations. Both roles require relevant certifications, but their responsibilities and work environments differ significantly.

How to be a professional driving instructor?

To become a professional driving instructor, you typically need to obtain a state-specific instructor certification or license, which involves completing a training program, passing written and practical exams, and having a valid driver's license with a clean driving record. Experience driving and strong communication skills are essential, and some regions require background checks and ongoing education to maintain certification.

Is it worth training as a professional driving instructor?

Training as a professional driving instructor can be a worthwhile career for those interested in teaching and driving, as it offers stable employment and the opportunity to earn income through student lessons and certifications. It typically requires obtaining a specialized license, passing background checks, and completing training programs, with work often involving flexible hours. The job provides a chance to develop communication skills and contribute to road safety.

Is there still a high demand for professional driving instructors?

The demand for professional driving instructors remains steady due to ongoing driver education needs, licensing requirements, and a consistent need for new drivers. Factors such as population growth and increased focus on road safety contribute to job stability, especially for those with proper certifications and teaching skills.

What are the most commonly searched types of Driving Instructor jobs in Columbia, MD?

The most popular types of Driving Instructor jobs in Columbia, MD are:

What cities near Columbia, MD are hiring for Professional Driving Instructor jobs?

Cities near Columbia, MD with the most Professional Driving Instructor job openings:

Professional Driving Instructor jobs near you

Kids Instructor

Annapolis, MD

Life Time

6.5

Company rating: 6.5 out of 10

Based on 394 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

24th of 63 rated gym and leisure clubs

People enjoy working here

Recommended by students

Recommended by parents

Learn more about Life Timeexternal

$16/hr

Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 11 days ago

Job description

Position Summary

The Kids Instructor provides best-in-class, educational/fitness-minded programming for our children. They organize, instruct and implement safe, fun and entertaining activities and games for children between the ages of three months to 11 years in the Kids Academy. Kids Instructors may also host parties and other events.

Job Duties and Responsibilities

  • Greets, acknowledges, and interacts with members and guests in a friendly and professional manner
  • Fosters children's cognitive, social, emotional, and physical development by instructing organized activities in accordance with the Kids Academy Schedule
  • Prepares and sets up for class and transfers kids to and from programming
  • Maintains records of children's attendance, development, and incidents.
  • Monitors and interacts with children to maintain a safe and healthy environment with respect to the toys, sports equipment, other children, and surroundings
  • Utilizes positive behavior management techniques and communicates clearly with parents and team members
  • Promotes all Junior programming to increase participation in all Kids & Aquatics programming
  • Maintains the Kids Academy and other program areas by following the cleaning checklist and performing assigned tasks. Restocks supplies after each class
  • Handles incidents and emergencies in a calm and professional manner

Position Requirements

  • Less than a High School Diploma or GED
  • Completion of all Kids On-Demand Required Learnings prior to first day of work
  • First Aid certification, Infant/Child and Adult CPR/AED certification required within the first 60 days of hire

Preferred Requirements

  • 6+ months of teaching children ages 3 - 11 in similar programs or activities
  • Ability to engage a group of children in an activity
  • Customer service and strong communication skills
PayThis is an hourly position with wages starting at $16.00 and pays up to $20.00, based on experience and qualifications.Benefits

All team members receive the following benefits while working for Life Time:

  • A fully subsidized membership

  • Discounts on Life Time products and services

  • 401(k) retirement savings plan with company discretionary match (21 years of age and older)

  • Training and professional development

  • Paid sick leave where required by law

Full-time Team Members are eligible for additional benefits, including:

  • Medical, dental, vision, and prescription drug coverage

  • Short term and long term disability insurance

  • Life insurance

  • Pre-tax flexible spending and dependent care plans

  • Parental leave and adoption assistance

  • Paid time off, including 5 to 20 vacation days per calendar year (based on tenure) and paid sick leave

  • Deferred compensation plan, if the team member meets the required income threshold

Life Time is a place for everyone. As an organization, we are committed to an inclusive, diverse and equitable workplace that respects and celebrates the unique contributions of each individual while ensuring we remain an equal opportunity employer that recruits, hires, trains and promotes based on merit and qualifications.

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