How much does a Driving Instructor make?
A Driving Instructor teaches people how to drive. They work with students to help them learn and pass driving tests. The salary for a Driving Instructor can vary. Most Driving Instructors make between $31,000 and $90,000 per year. The average yearly salary is around $45,713. Many factors can affect how much a Driving Instructor makes. These include experience, location, and the number of hours they work.
Driving Instructors who have been in the job for many years tend to earn more. Those in larger cities or areas with higher living costs also often make more. Some Driving Instructors choose to work part-time, while others may have a full-time schedule. Working more hours can increase their salary. Also, some Driving Instructors may earn extra money by teaching in multiple states or regions.
What are the highest paying cities for a Driving Instructor?

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Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $57,756
Seattle's urban landscape offers many opportunities to teach safe driving. With companies like Seattle Driving School, new instructors find a supportive environment. The city's emphasis on public transport also means many learners are seeking to become confident drivers.
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Jacksonville, FL
Average Salary: $54,500
Jacksonville's growing population presents a steady demand for driving education. Local institutions such as Coastal Driving School provide training and resources. The warm weather makes for pleasant teaching conditions.
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Chicago, IL
Average Salary: $53,531
In Chicago, a vibrant city means diverse driving conditions. Driving schools like Chicagoland Driving School prepare instructors for all types of roads. Windy City learners need skilled instructors to navigate urban and suburban areas.
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San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $51,952
San Francisco's hilly terrain and busy streets challenge both students and instructors. Companies such as SF Driving Institute offer specialized training. The city's tech-savvy learners appreciate modern teaching methods.
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Tampa, FL
Average Salary: $49,550
Tampa's sunny climate makes for ideal driving conditions. Local driving schools, such as Tampa Bay Driving School, provide ample opportunity for growth. The city's growing population increases the demand for driving education.
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Sacramento, CA
Average Salary: $48,278
Sacramento offers a mix of rural and urban driving experiences. Driving schools like Sacramento Driving Academy help instructors develop a broad skill set. The city's diverse roads keep teaching fresh and engaging.
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San Jose, CA
Average Salary: $46,710
San Jose's tech industry means many learners with varied backgrounds. Schools like Silicon Valley Driving School offer unique teaching challenges. The city's innovative spirit drives a demand for skilled instructors.
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Lansing, MI
Average Salary: $45,837
Lansing's more laid-back driving conditions provide a good learning environment. Local schools such as Lansing Driving School offer supportive training. The city's moderate traffic means instructors can focus on skill development.
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Santa Rosa, CA
Average Salary: $44,977
Santa Rosa's scenic routes and moderate traffic make for pleasant teaching experiences. Schools like North Bay Driving School provide a peaceful setting. The city's growing population ensures steady demand for driving instruction.
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Milwaukee, WI
Average Salary: $44,514
Milwaukee's diverse road conditions challenge instructors. Local driving schools, such as Milwaukee Driving Academy, offer excellent training. The city's strong community spirit fosters a supportive work environment.
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What are the best companies a Driving Instructor can work for?

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Holliday Rock Co., Inc
Average Salary: $100,000
Holliday Rock Co., Inc offers top-tier salaries for Driving Instructors. They provide comprehensive training programs and operate across multiple locations in various states. Their commitment to high standards makes them a leader in the industry.
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Wayne Finger Lakes BOCES
Average Salary: $86,040
Wayne Finger Lakes BOCES provides a competitive salary for Driving Instructors. They focus on professional development and operate in several counties in New York. Their dedication to quality education is evident in their salary offerings.
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Roy's Driver & Rider Education
Average Salary: $71,160
Roy's Driver & Rider Education offers a solid salary for Driving Instructors. They provide personalized training and operate in multiple locations in the Midwest. Their emphasis on student success reflects in their compensation packages.
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Transdev
Average Salary: $58,941
Transdev provides a good salary for Driving Instructors. They operate across the United States, offering various training programs. Their nationwide presence provides many opportunities for instructors.
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CDI
Average Salary: $46,000
CDI offers a fair salary for Driving Instructors. They operate in several locations and provide a supportive environment for professional growth. Their commitment to instructor development is evident in their compensation.
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The Next Street
Average Salary: $42,754
The Next Street offers a respectable salary for Driving Instructors. They provide training in multiple locations and focus on student success. Their dedication to quality education reflects in their salary offerings.
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Official Driving School
Average Salary: $42,377
Official Driving School provides a good salary for Driving Instructors. They offer comprehensive training programs and operate in various states. Their focus on quality education supports their compensation packages.
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All Star Driver Education
Average Salary: $41,361
All Star Driver Education offers a competitive salary for Driving Instructors. They provide quality training and operate in several locations. Their commitment to instructor development is reflected in their salary offerings.
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Coastline Academy
Average Salary: $40,171
Coastline Academy offers a fair salary for Driving Instructors. They provide comprehensive training and operate in multiple locations. Their dedication to student success supports their compensation packages.
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AAA Auto Club Enterprises
Average Salary: $39,786
AAA Auto Club Enterprises offers a good salary for Driving Instructors. They provide quality training and operate in various states. Their commitment to quality education is evident in their salary offerings.
How to earn more as a Driving Instructor?
Driving instructors can increase their earnings by focusing on several key factors. Firstly, gaining experience and building a reputation for being an excellent instructor will naturally draw more students. This leads to more income. Secondly, specializing in advanced driving skills or offering courses for specific licenses can command higher rates. Additionally, expanding the range of services, such as offering evening and weekend classes, can help fill more slots and increase earnings. Networking with other professionals, such as car dealerships and auto repair shops, can also lead to referrals and additional income streams.
Marketing oneself effectively is another crucial factor. Using social media and online advertising to reach a broader audience can attract new students. Offering promotions or discounts for referrals can also increase the number of clients. Investing in high-quality teaching materials and ensuring a clean, safe vehicle will provide a better learning experience, leading to higher student retention and satisfaction. Finally, continuing education and obtaining additional certifications can enhance credibility and open up opportunities for higher-paying positions.
By focusing on these factors, driving instructors can significantly increase their earnings:
- Gain experience and build a reputation
- Specialize in advanced skills or specific licenses
- Offer flexible scheduling options
- Network with other professionals
- Invest in marketing and promotions



