Tax Return for Driving Instructors
Complete your Self Assessment in 8 minutes. Claim all your allowable expenses and submit directly to HMRC.
- Track lesson income
- Vehicle expense support
- ADI registration costs
- MTD-ready for 2026
Example Tax Calculation
Based on typical driving instructors earnings £32,000/year
*Illustrative example based on 2024/25 tax rates. Your actual tax depends on your specific circumstances.
Allowable Expenses for Driving Instructors
Claim these tax-deductible expenses to reduce your tax bill
Vehicle Costs
Fuel, insurance, servicing, and dual controls for your teaching vehicle.
Tip: Track business vs personal mileage carefully.
ADI Registration
Approved Driving Instructor badge fees and renewal costs.
Tip: ADI fees are fully deductible.
Training and CPD
Standards check preparation and continuing development courses.
Tip: Keep certificates and receipts.
Insurance
Driving instructor insurance and public liability cover.
Tip: Insurance premiums are fully deductible.
More expenses you can claim
How to File Your Tax Return
Follow these simple steps to complete your Self Assessment
Gather Your Documents
Collect income records, receipts, and expense statements
Enter Income & Expenses
Add your earnings and claim allowable expenses with our guided flow
Review Your Calculation
See exactly how much tax you owe with real-time calculations
Submit to HMRC
File your tax return directly to HMRC in minutes
Key Deadlines for 2024/25 Tax Year
Don't miss these important dates
5 April 2025
Tax Year Ends
Calculate your final income and expenses
5 October 2025
Register for Self Assessment
If this is your first year self-employed
31 January 2026
Online Filing Deadline
Submit your tax return and pay any tax owed
6 April 2026
MTD Starts (£50k+)
If your income exceeds £50,000, you must use MTD software
Late Filing Penalties
1 day late: £100 fixed penalty
3 months late: £10/day up to £900
6 months late: 5% of tax owed or £300 (whichever is higher)
12 months late: Additional 5% or £300
Plus interest on any tax paid late. Avoid these costs by filing early with QTax.
Frequently Asked Questions
Answers to common questions about tax returns for driving instructors
Do driving instructors need to register as self-employed?
Yes. Most driving instructors are self-employed and must register for Self Assessment.
Can I claim my car costs?
Yes. You can claim vehicle running costs proportionate to business use, or use mileage allowance.
What about dual control costs?
Dual control installation and servicing costs are allowable business expenses.
Ready to File Your Tax Return?
Join thousands of UK driving instructors who trust QTax for their Self Assessment