Getting Started Guide for PDIs

Welcome to myPDI! This guide will help you set up your account and start tracking your journey to becoming a fully qualified driving instructor.

What is myPDI?

myPDI is a professional development platform designed specifically for Potential Driving Instructors (PDIs) working towards their DVSA qualification. The app helps you:

  • Track your progress against the 17 DVSA competencies
  • Record reflective logs after each training session
  • Receive formal observations from your trainer
  • Manage your learner drivers and lesson schedule
  • Prepare for your Standards Check with targeted feedback

Step 1: Complete Your Profile

After registering, make sure your profile is complete:

  1. Go to your Profile
    Click the menu icon and select "Profile" from the options.
  2. Add your details
    Enter your full name, contact information, and any other relevant details.
  3. Save your changes
    Click the Save button to update your profile.

Step 2: Connect with Your Trainer

To receive observations and feedback, you need to connect with your trainer:

  1. Get your trainer's PIN
    Ask your trainer for their unique Trainer PIN code.
  2. Go to Change Trainer
    Navigate to the menu and select "Change Trainer".
  3. Enter the PIN
    Type in your trainer's PIN and click Connect. Your trainer will now be able to see your progress and conduct observations.
Tip

You can only be connected to one trainer at a time. If you change trainers, your historical data will remain but your new trainer will need to conduct fresh observations.

Step 3: Add Your Learner Drivers

Keep track of the learners you're teaching:

  1. Go to Learners
    Click "Learners" in the menu to open the learner management page.
  2. Add a new learner
    Click "Add Learner" and enter their name and any notes about their current level.
  3. Use learners in logs
    When creating reflective logs, you can select which learner the session was with.

Step 4: Create Your First Reflective Log

After each training session, record what happened and what you learned:

  1. Click "New Log"
    From your dashboard, click the "New Log" button in the quick actions bar.
  2. Select the learner and date
    Choose which learner you were teaching and the date of the session.
  3. Reflect on the session
    Write about what went well and what you could improve. Be honest - this is for your development!
  4. Save your log
    Click Save to record your reflection. You can view all your logs from the Logs page.
Tip

Try to complete your reflective log as soon as possible after the session while it's fresh in your mind. Even a quick log is better than no log!

Step 5: Understand Your Dashboard

Your dashboard is your central hub showing:

  • Metric boxes - Quick stats showing learners, latest score, and log count
  • Score Trend - A graph showing how your observation scores are improving over time
  • Latest Observation Scores - Your most recent scores across all 17 competencies, grouped by category
  • Top Development Needs - Competencies where you scored lowest in your last observation
  • Top Strengths - Competencies where you scored highest
  • Recent Observations - A list of your recent trainer observations
Tip

Tap on any competency in the Latest Observation Scores section to see the feedback your trainer provided.

The 17 DVSA Competencies

Your progress is measured against the official DVSA competencies, divided into three categories:

Lesson Planning (Competencies 1-4)

These assess how well you plan and structure your lessons:

  • Identifying learning goals and needs
  • Appropriate lesson structure
  • Suitable practice areas
  • Adapting the lesson plan

Risk Management (Competencies 5-9)

These assess how you manage safety during lessons:

  • Sharing risk responsibility
  • Clear directions and instructions
  • Awareness of surroundings
  • Timely interventions
  • Feedback on safety incidents

Teaching & Learning (Competencies 10-17)

These assess your teaching methods and techniques:

  • Appropriate teaching style
  • Encouraging problem analysis
  • Using examples to clarify
  • Accurate technical information
  • Timely feedback
  • Following up queries
  • Non-discriminatory manner
  • Encouraging self-reflection

What's Next?

Now that you're set up, here are some things to explore: