ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Professional Driving Instructor Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Coastline Academy

Driving Instructor - PA

Lansdale, PA · On-site

$10 - $24/hr

We'll assist you in obtaining the state-required driving instructor certification through our paid ... Maintaining professionalism with students and fellow team members * Attending team meetings for ...

Coastline Academy

Driving Instructor - PA

Lansdale, PA · On-site

$10 - $24/hr

We'll assist you in obtaining the state-required driving instructor certification through our paid ... Maintaining professionalism with students and fellow team members * Attending team meetings for ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsProfessional Driving Instructor Jobs

Professional Driving Instructor information

See salary details

$6

$21

$39

How much do professional driving instructor jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for professional 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.

How much do top driver instructors make?

Top professional driving instructors can earn between $50,000 and $80,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the number of students they teach. Income may also include bonuses or commissions for high performance and additional certifications. Experienced instructors with a strong reputation and advanced skills tend to earn higher salaries.

What qualifications do you need to be a driver trainer?

To become a professional driving instructor, candidates typically need a valid driver's license, relevant driving experience, and completion of a certified instructor training program. Some regions 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 the role.

What is the going rate for a driving instructor?

The average hourly rate for a professional driving instructor typically ranges from $20 to $40, depending on location, experience, and certification level. Instructors may also earn additional income through private lessons or driving school employment, often working flexible hours to accommodate students' schedules.

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 are professional driving instructors?

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.

Can you make a lot of money being a driving instructor?

Professional driving instructors can earn a competitive income, especially with experience, a good reputation, and working in high-demand areas. Earnings often depend on factors such as the number of students, hourly rates, and whether they work independently or for a driving school. Some instructors supplement income through private lessons or advanced certifications.

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.

What cities are hiring for Professional Driving Instructor jobs? Cities with the most Professional Driving Instructor job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Driving Instructor jobs? The most popular types of Driving Instructor jobs are:
What states have the most Professional Driving Instructor jobs? States with the most job openings for Professional Driving Instructor jobs include:
Professional Driving Instructor jobs near you
Defensive Driving Instructor

Defensive Driving Instructor

State of South Carolina

Beaufort, SC • On-site

$18 - $25/hr

Other

Re-posted yesterday

State Of South Carolina rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 42 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

25th of 50 rated states

Job description

Job Responsibilities Position Summary The Defensive Driving Instructor is responsible for delivering state-approved defensive driving courses, in cooperation with the South Carolina Technical College System, to diverse audiences, including court-referred participants, corporate clients, and the general public. The instructor promotes safe driving practices, reduces at-risk driving behaviors, and ensures compliance with South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles (SCDMV) and other applicable regulations. Key Responsibilities Instruction & Training Deliver engaging, interactive defensive driving courses in accordance with South Carolina state guidelines and approved curriculum.

Facilitate classroom training sessions for adult learners with varying levels of driving experience. Clearly explain traffic laws, risk prevention techniques, and safe driving strategies. Adapt teaching methods to accommodate different learning styles and participant needs.

Compliance & Documentation Ensure all course content meets SCDMV and court-mandated requirements. Maintain accurate attendance records, completion certificates, and participant documentation. Adhere to all reporting requirements for court-referred or state-mandated participants.

Protect confidentiality of participant records in compliance with applicable laws. Participant Engagement & Support Foster a respectful and inclusive learning environment. Address participant questions, concerns, and resistance professionally.

Manage classroom behavior and maintain a safe, controlled training setting. Program Administration Prepare instructional materials, visual aids, and course resources. Coordinate scheduling and logistics for training sessions.

Assist with program evaluation and continuous improvement initiatives. Maintain training equipment and ensure readiness for instruction. Minimum and Additional Requirements High school diploma or equivalent (Associate or Bachelor's degree preferred in education, safety, or related field).

Minimum 21 years of age Have at least 5 years of driving experience. Hold a valid South Carolina driver's license with no more than 6 points on the driving record. No suspensions for moving violations in the past 3 years.

Additional Comments The Technical College of the Lowcountry seeks to be the first choice for higher education in South Carolina's Low Country Region. The college is a public, open door, two-year comprehensive College of higher education. The College is dedicated to serving the diverse educational, workforce development, and personal enrichment needs of the rural counties of Beaufort, Colleton, Hampton, and Jasper.

In an atmosphere of shared values, the College encourages creativity, innovation, and resourcefulness among its students, faculty, staff, and administrators. South Carolina is making our Veterans a priority for employment in state agencies and institutions. The Technical College of the Lowcountry is committed to a policy of equal opportunity for all qualified applicants for admissions or employment without regard to sex, race/color, religion, national origin, age, disability, service in the uniformed services (as defined by state and federal law), veteran status, political affiliation or belief, marital or family status, pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions, including but not limited to, lactation, genetic information, genetic identity, gender expression, or sexual orientation.

What State Of South Carolina employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

State of South Carolina logo

About State of South Carolina

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

State of South Carolina is not a typical corporation, but the governing body of the US state of South Carolina, located in the capital city of Columbia. Its industry focuses on public administration, providing key essential services to ensure the efficient functioning of the state. These services range from public safety and environment protection to education, healthcare, and economic development. The state was founded in 1788, grounded in democratic principles meant to support the overall well-being of its citizenry. Its core values revolve around service, integrity, accountability, and transparency. The mission of the State of South Carolina is to improve the quality of life for all its people, with a focus on education advancement, economic growth, and improved healthcare.

Industry

Public administration

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Columbia, SC, US

Social media

Twitter

View All State of South Carolina Jobs

Apply