Becoming a driving instructor in Melbourne, Victoria, is a rewarding career move, but it’s important to understand the full range of costs involved before you start your journey. From formal training and licensing to background checks and potential business expenses, knowing what to expect will help you budget effectively and avoid surprises. Here’s a comprehensive breakdown of the costs associated with becoming a certified driving instructor in Melbourne.

1. Formal Training: TLI41222 Certificate IV in Motor Vehicle Driver Training

The most significant upfront cost is the TLI41222 Certificate IV in Motor Vehicle Driver Training, which is the nationally recognised qualification required to become a professional driving instructor in Victoria.

Course Fees: 

Most reputable training providers in Melbourne charge between $3,200 and $3,750 for the full Certificate IV program.

• Some providers allow payment in instalments (e.g., an initial deposit of $500–$1,000, with the balance due before practical training).
• If you already hold a previous version of the qualification, an upgrade to the current TLI41222 may cost between $1,150 and $2,750.

What’s Included:
The course fee typically covers:

• Classroom and online theory modules
• Practical, on-road instruction
• Training materials and resources
• Assessment fees
• Supervised work placement

What’s Not Included:
Some providers may charge separately for textbooks, additional practice sessions, or resitting assessments. Always check the inclusions with your chosen provider.

2. Licensing, Checks, and Application Fees

Once you’ve completed your training, you’ll need to apply for your Driving Instructor Authority through Safe Transport Victoria (formerly CPVV). This involves several mandatory checks and fees:

• Application Fee:
  Typically $70–$100 for the initial application.
• Working with Children Check:
  • Free for volunteers
  • $120 for paid roles (required for all instructors in Victoria)
• National Police Check:
  • $50–$60 (required for all applicants, must be current within 6 months)
• Medical Assessment:
  • $80–$120 (a GP must complete the required medical certificate, costs may vary by clinic)
• Photographs and Document Certification:
  • $20–$50 (for passport photos and certifying copies of documents, if needed)

3. Vehicle and Equipment Expenses

If you plan to teach in your own vehicle, you may face additional costs:

• Dual Controls Installation:
  • $1,000–$2,000 to have dual controls fitted by a licensed mechanic (essential for all instructor vehicles)
• Vehicle Signage:
  • $100–$300 for magnetic or permanent “Learner Driver” signs
• Vehicle Maintenance and Insurance:
  • Comprehensive insurance and regular maintenance are essential for safety and compliance
  • $400–$1,000+ per year for public liability and professional indemnity insurance

4. Business Setup and Marketing (if starting independently)

If you plan to operate as an independent instructor or start your own driving school, consider these additional costs:

• Business Registration:
  • $40–$80 per year for registering your business name with ASIC
• Website and Marketing:
  • $300–$1,000+ for a basic website, business cards, and initial online advertising
• Booking and Scheduling Software:
  • $20–$50/month for digital tools to manage appointments and payments
• GST Registration:
  • Required if your business turnover exceeds $75,000 per year (no upfront fee, but factor in accounting costs)

5. Ongoing Professional Development

While not always an upfront cost, ongoing training, workshops, and refresher courses are important for maintaining your skills and professional standing.

• $100–$500+ per year, depending on the courses and seminars you attend.

6. Summary Table: Typical Costs

Expense Category	Estimated Cost (AUD)
TLI41222 Certificate IV Course	$3,200 – $3,750
Application Fee	$70 – $100
Working with Children Check	$120
National Police Check	$50 – $60
Medical Assessment	$80 – $120
Dual Controls Installation (if needed)	$1,000 – $2,000
Vehicle Signage	$100 – $300
Insurance (annual)	$400 – $1,000+
Business Registration (annual)	$40 – $80
Website & Marketing (startup)	$300 – $1,000+
Ongoing Professional Development (annual)	$100 – $500+

Typical total initial investment:

If you join an established driving school, your upfront costs may be limited to training, checks, and licensing (approx. $3,500–$4,200).

If you start independently, including vehicle and business setup, expect to invest $5,000–$8,000 or more.

7. Tips for Managing and Minimising Costs

• Compare providers for the TLI41222 Certificate IV in Motor Vehicle Driver Training to ensure you get value for money and all necessary inclusions.
• Ask about payment plans or instalment options to spread out training costs.
• Check for government subsidies or incentives for vocational education or small business startups.
• Join an established driving school to reduce your initial outlay on vehicle modifications, insurance, and marketing.
• Plan for ongoing expenses such as insurance renewals, vehicle maintenance, and professional development.

Why Choose the Australian College of Future Education?

The Australian College of Future Education is a trusted provider of the TLI41222 Certificate IV in Motor Vehicle Driver Training in Melbourne. With competitive fees, modern facilities, and a supportive learning environment, they guide you through every step, from enrolment to graduation and job placement. Their flexible payment options, industry connections, and commitment to student success make them an excellent choice for aspiring driving instructors who want to maximise their investment and build a rewarding career.

Ready to take the next step? Start your journey with the Australian College of Future Education and become a certified driving instructor in Melbourne.