Can a Driving Instructor Countersign a Passport? What You Need to Know
If you need someone to countersign a passport application, you might wonder whether your driving instructor qualifies. This is a surprisingly common question, and the answer depends on a few factors relating to the rules set by His Majesty’s Passport Office.
What Does Countersigning a Passport Mean?
When applying for a first adult passport — or if your appearance has significantly changed — you may need a countersignatory. This is someone who can confirm your identity by signing the back of your passport photo and completing a declaration that they know you as a genuine person.
Can a Driving Instructor Countersign a Passport?
Yes — a driving instructor can countersign a passport application, provided they meet the following criteria set out by His Majesty’s Passport Office:
- British citizen or have appropriate residency status in the UK
- Known you for at least two years in a professional capacity
- Not related to you by blood, marriage, or civil partnership
- Holds a recognised professional position — which driving instructors (ADIs) do qualify as
Because Approved Driving Instructors are registered with the DVSA and hold a professional licence, they are generally accepted as countersignatories. The key requirement is that they have known you for at least two years.
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Who Else Can Countersign a Passport?
If your driving instructor hasn’t known you for two years, you’ll need to find another suitable person. Accepted countersignatories include teachers, doctors, solicitors, police officers, bank managers, and other regulated professionals who have known you for the required period.
What Information Does a Countersignatory Need to Provide?
Your countersignatory will need to:
- Sign the back of one of your photos with a pen
- Write “I certify that this is a true likeness of [your full name]” on the photo
- Complete the relevant section of the passport application form, including their occupation, telephone number, and passport number (if applicable)
How Exam Routes Can Help While You Wait for Your Passport
While your passport application is being processed, it’s a great time to focus on your driving. Use the Exam Routes App to practise real test routes near your local test centre — so when your test date arrives, you’ll be fully prepared.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does a driving instructor count as a professional for passport purposes?
Yes, an Approved Driving Instructor (ADI) holds a government-recognised qualification and is accepted as a professional countersignatory by His Majesty’s Passport Office.
Does my instructor need to have a passport themselves?
Your countersignatory does not need to hold a passport themselves, but they do need to be a British citizen or appropriately resident in the UK.
What if my instructor has only known me for a few months?
They would not qualify if they have known you for less than two years. You would need to find another professional who has known you for the required period.
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