Scottish Government enforcing its Protecting Vulnerable Groups scheme

Driving and rider trainers across Scotland are being urged to register for the Protecting Vulnerable Groups (PVG) scheme by the fast-approaching deadline of 30 June 2025. This legal requirement, which became mandatory on 1 April 2025, is essential for any instructor providing lessons to individuals under the age of 18 or to protected adults.

Failure to register with the PVG scheme by the end of June will result in trainers being prohibited from providing tuition to these groups in Scotland.

The scheme, introduced by the Scottish Government, aims to ensure that those working in regulated roles with children and protected adults are suitable for such positions. For driving instructors, this new measure adds a layer of safeguarding to the profession.

What You Need to Do

The registration process differs for training schools and self-employed instructors.

• Training Schools: Proprietors of training schools are responsible for ensuring all their instructors who work with children or protected adults are registered with the PVG scheme.
• Self-Employed Trainers: Individual drivers and rider trainers who are self-employed must manage their own registration for the scheme.

Instructors are advised that they will be required to update their own records with their PVG registration details in due course and should not send these details to any governing body at this stage. Further instructions on how to do this will be communicated separately.

ADIs Awaiting PVG Registration

For Approved Driving Instructors (ADIs) whose re-registration is currently due but are still waiting to receive their PVG scheme reference number, it is crucial to take immediate action. These individuals should contact the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) by emailing PADI@DVSA.gov.uk or by calling the customer service centre on 0300 200 1122.

When making contact, ADIs should ensure they include their ADI number in the email or have it readily available when calling. This will allow for their re-registration process to be handled appropriately while their PVG application is being processed.