- 25+ years old with relevant diploma and 5+ years driving.
- Valid license, clean record, medical and criminal clearance.
- Key traits: patience, pedagogy, and knowledge of road laws.
- If license canceled, wait a year; submit identity, license copies, diploma, form.
Across Romania, the number of cars on the streets has grown exponentially in the last 10-15 years, and more young people are enrolling in driving schools as soon as they reach the legal age to drive. This shift has made the profession of driving instructor highly sought after and profitable, especially in major cities where demand for driving instruction is continually increasing. If you have ever considered becoming a driving instructor, this guide explains the step-by-step process to obtain the certificate.
In addition, you will find details about eligibility, required documents, professional training, and the final exam to help you pursue this career path.
Eligibility requirements for driving instructors
To apply for the driving instructor certificate, you must meet several mandatory conditions set by the Ministry of Transport:
- Education: Holding a high school diploma or a diploma certifying completion of a master’s program in the specialty of auto transport
- Driving license: Holding a valid driving license for the category for which you are applying, with a minimum of 5 years of driving experience
- Age: Minimum 25 years old at the time of enrollment in the courses
- Driving record: Must not have had a driving license suspended more than twice and must never have been caught driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs
- Criminal record: Must present a criminal record with no final convictions
- Medical fitness: Must provide medical certificates proving you are medically and psychologically fit to perform this activity
- Important: You must never have had your driving license canceled
If you previously held a driving instructor certificate that was canceled, you may apply for a new one only after at least one year from the cancellation and if you meet all the conditions listed above.
Qualities needed for a successful driving instructor
Patience and empathy
Not all students will be equally skilled or learn at the same pace. A successful instructor must be able to adapt to each learner and remain patient even in challenging situations.
Pedagogical skills
Beyond driving proficiency, a driving instructor must be a good educator. You will teach both traffic laws and the correct driving techniques, as well as foster responsible attitudes in traffic.
Mastery of road traffic legislation
A deep understanding of traffic regulations is essential, not only to teach students correctly but also to prepare them thoroughly for the theoretical exam.
Documents required for enrollment in courses
To enroll in the preparation courses, you must submit a complete dossier to the Ministry of Transport, at the department responsible for training and professional development of personnel in the field of road transport.
The dossier must contain the following documents:
- Copy of the identity card
- Copy of the driving license
- Legalized copy of the last diploma obtained
- Official enrollment form (depending on the certificate you wish to obtain)
- Original driving record meeting the conditions stated above
- Proof of attendance and successful completion of courses at a driving instructor school authorized by the Ministry of Transport
- Medical certificates showing you are psychologically and medically fit
Professional training courses
The duration of the professional training courses to obtain the driving instructor certificate is 120 hours, structured as follows:
Theoretical training - 90 hours
This component covers essential aspects such as:
- Detailed road regulations
- Teaching techniques and pedagogical methodology
- Psychology of learners and management of various situations
- Technical aspects of motor vehicles
- Road safety rules
- Examination and assessment procedures
Practical training - 30 hours
The practical training focuses on:
- Driving instruction techniques
- Managing difficult traffic situations
- Correcting students’ mistakes
- Use of dual controls
- Examination routes and test tracks
It is considered that the applicant already holds a substantial portion of the necessary practical knowledge due to the minimum 5-year driving license experience.
Final exam for driving instructor
After completing the courses, the final examination consists of two components:
Theoretical exam
- Format: 60-question multiple-choice test
- Duration: 60 minutes
- Minimum passing score: 48 correct answers (80%)
To proceed to the practical exam, you must first pass the theoretical exam.
Practical exam
- Format: Route examination
- Duration: 30 minutes
- Evaluation: Penalization points system for each mistake
During the practical exam, examiners will assess:
- Driving technique
- Compliance with traffic regulations
- Reactions in various traffic situations
- Ability to explain and correct potential mistakes
Road Traffic Legislation Instructor Certification
In addition to the driving instructor certificate, you can obtain the Road Traffic Legislation Instructor Certification, which gives you the right to teach road traffic legislation to students within a driving school.
The examination for this certification consists of:
- Written exam: 60 questions, similar to the theoretical tests for driving instructors
- Oral exam: 15 minutes of examination before a committee, where you will be evaluated on your ability to explain and teach road traffic legislation concepts
This additional certification can significantly increase your value on the job market and provides more options within a driving school.
Steps after obtaining the certificate
Once you have the driving instructor certificate, you should take the following steps:
- Obtain authorization as a driving instructor from the competent authorities
- Choose the form of operation:
- Employed at an existing driving school
- Opening your own driving school (if you have the funds and meet the legal requirements)
Advantages of a career as a driving instructor
- Attractive earnings, especially in urban environments
- Flexible working hours
- Steady demand in the market
- Possibility to work independently
- Satisfaction of contributing to road safety education
Conclusion
Becoming a driving instructor is a well-structured process that requires seriousness, thorough preparation, and dedication. Although the path may seem complex, meeting all requirements and carefully preparing for the final exam will lead to obtaining the certificate. Given the growing demand for qualified driving instructors, this profession offers an excellent career opportunity for those who have a passion for driving and the pleasure of teaching others.
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