Choosing the right driving instructor is an important part of learning to drive. For some learners, feeling comfortable with their instructor can make a big difference to their confidence behind the wheel.
One common question we’re asked is: Can I request a female driving instructor?
In this guide, we’ll explain whether it’s possible, how to request one with Bill Plant Driving School, and why some learners prefer a female instructor.
If you’re thinking about learning to drive, you’re probably doing lots of searching online for a driving school and instructor.
Can you request a female driving instructor with Bill Plant Driving School?
Yes, you can request a female driving instructor with Bill Plant Driving School.
If you would feel more comfortable learning with a female instructor, simply let us know when booking, and we’ll always do our best to accommodate your preference (subject to availability in your area).
How to Request a Female Driving Instructor with Bill Plant
Because female driving instructors are in high demand across the UK, they cannot be selected directly through our standard online booking system. Instead, here’s what to do:
- Enter your postcode on our booking page.
- Choose your preferred lesson package (manual or automatic).
- Request a callback.
- Let our team know that you would like a female driving instructor.
Our team will check availability in your area and match you with a suitable instructor where possible.
While we always try to meet your preferences, availability depends on your location and current demand.
For full details, visit our Female Driving Instructor page and request a callback.
Why Do Some Learners Prefer a Female Driving Instructor?
Learning to drive can feel daunting, especially if you’re already nervous or anxious. Some learners feel more comfortable with a female instructor for reasons such as:
- Reduced nerves or anxiety
- Cultural or religious preferences
- Personal comfort
- Previous experiences
There’s no right or wrong choice; what matters most is that you feel confident and supported while learning.
Are Female Driving Instructors Different to Male Instructors?
In terms of training, qualifications and standards, no. All Approved Driving Instructors (ADIs) must meet the same DVSA requirements and pass the same rigorous tests, regardless of gender.
The difference comes down to personal preference, not teaching ability.
Is It Guaranteed?
Because most driving instructors in the UK are male, female instructors are not available in every area.
We’ll always try to accommodate your request, but this depends on:
- Your postcode
- Instructor availability
- Current demand
If a female instructor isn’t immediately available, our team will discuss the next best option with you.
Female driving instructors: the stats
So we know that there are more male driving instructors in the UK, but what do the stats actually say?
While there aren’t any up-to-date figures around the number of female driving instructors on the current ADI register, we do know that in April 2012, only 22.4% of registered ADIs in Great Britain were female.
As of the end of the financial year 2025, 42,401 driving instructors were on the ADI register. This means that if the proportion of female driving instructors remained the same as it was in April 2012 (22.4%), only 9,498 of these ADIs would be female.
The percentage of registered female ADIs has likely changed since then, so take this number as a guesstimate. We might not have concrete, up-to-date statistics around the number of female driving instructors in the UK, but we can safely say that the number of male driving instructors in the UK significantly outweighs the number of females.
So now you know why not every driving school can grant your preference for a female driving instructor. And if they can, you might even be put on a waiting list.
FAQs about female driving instructors
What type of driving lessons can I get with a female driving instructor?
Driving instructors provide a number of different lesson types, depending on their preference and vehicle transmission.
At Bill Plant Driving School, you can find both male and female driving instructors to provide:
- Manual driving lessons
- Automatic driving lessons
- Refresher driving lessons
- Motorway driving lessons
- Pass Plus driving lessons
How can you become one of Bill Plant Driving School’s female instructors?
As we know, there are many more male instructors in the UK than females. This puts female driving instructors in relatively short supply.
In January 2022, 72.1% of ADI driving instructors (from 6,381 ADIs who responded to the DVSA’s working as a driving instructor survey) had a waiting list for learner drivers, and we’re seeing similar trends today. We’re eager to welcome more women onto our team to make it easier for learner drivers to get out on the road with a preferred driving instructor.
If you’re considering changing career paths to become a driving instructor, take a look at Bill Plant Driving School’s driving instructor training courses and find an option to suit you. You can find intensive courses to get you out teaching in the shortest possible time or flexible options to learn at your own pace around family or work commitments.
If you need some more information about becoming a driving instructor, discover our other guides:
- How Long Does It Take To Become A Driving Instructor?
- How Much Does It Cost To Become A Driving Instructor?
- What is the Average Driving Instructor Salary in the UK?
Are female driving instructors better?
All driving instructors in the UK have undertaken advanced training to qualify to teach learners how to drive. So in terms of driving skills, knowledge and qualifications, there won’t be any difference between male and female driving instructors.
At Bill Plant Driving School, all our driving instructors are professional, reliable and waiting to share their driving knowledge to get you passing your driving test in no time.
Are female driving instructors more expensive?
Although the average cost for an hour of driving lessons in the UK is £34, this will vary significantly depending on a number of factors. Female driving instructors don’t necessarily charge more than male driving instructors for their lessons.
Instead, the prices vary according to factors like location, driving instructor experience, whether you require lessons in an automatic or manual transmission vehicle and if you choose regular or intensive driving lessons.
Start Learning in a Way That Feels Right for You
At Bill Plant Driving School, we believe learning to drive should feel supportive, professional and confidence-building from your very first lesson.
If you’d prefer a female driving instructor, let us know, and we’ll do everything we can to match you with the right instructor for your needs.
Ready to get started? Visit our Female Driving Instructor page and follow the steps to request a callback today.