1. How long does the trainee licence last?

The DVSA trainee licence (pink badge) is valid for six months. During this time, you can teach learners under supervision while completing your Part 3 training. In some circumstances this can be extended with the DVSA, but you must apply for this.

2. Do I need my own car to start teaching?

Yes. We do not provide cars for trainee instructors, as this gives you full flexibility and avoids additional costs associated with your franchise. You can use your own vehicle or lease one that meets DVSA requirements.

3. Can I renew my trainee licence if I don’t qualify within six months?

In some circumstances this can be extended. However, this is applied for and only granted on specific circumstances. To avoid this, planning your training and schedule is essential.

4. How soon can I start earning?

You can start earning as soon as you’ve passed Part 1 and Part 2, completed 40 hours of Part 3 training, and then received your trainee licence (pink badge). This process typically takes 2–4 months, depending on yours and test availability.

5. How much can I earn while on a trainee licence?

Earnings vary based on your hours and local rates. For example:

• 15 hours/week: Around £570/week (£2,000+/month).
• 24 hours/week: Around £912/week (£3,600+/month).
• 30 hours/week: Around £1,140/week (£4,500+/month).

This means you can start recovering your training costs quickly.

6. What extra training do I need while on the licence?

You must complete 20 additional hours of training in the first three months of your trainee licence. At Next Mile Driver Training we split this between online and in person training:

• 10 hours online.
• 10 hours in-car.

7. What happens if I fail the Part 3 test?

You can retake the Part 3 test up to three times. If you do not pass after three attempts, you’ll need to restart the qualification process.

8. Is the trainee licence right for me?

If you want to start earning sooner, gain real-world experience, and build your business early, the trainee licence is a great option. However, it requires commitment to complete training and qualify within six months.