Is there a shortage of driving instructors?

[clawmachine]

I had lessons a few years ago (before covid) and i remember it beng quite easy to find instructors and switch between different ones. Now I'm ready to restart lessons again and not a single one is replying to my texts/emails. The previous one i was with has retired so he's not an option. I just don't understand what's going on, I'm not even getting any replies saying they're too busy to take on new students. Any advice?

Does seem to be a common issue, lots only do week days around here and finish by 5.

As a driving instructor I can say the answer is yes, certainly in my area and in many others from what I hear. And that is certainly what I would read into unanswered messages etc.

It is an industry that has quite a high turnover because it doesn't pay as well as people expect and is harder work than people think. Lots come into the industry and are gone again within 1-2 years.

I tried to find a driving instructor for my son via googling and it was impossible the were all booked up. I got one eventually through word of mouth who was independent and didn't advertise anywhere.

Thanks for the replies, at least it's not just me struggling to find one

A lot in my area left during Covid to find jobs with employers. I know one who now drives for a supermarket. Tests are also a nightmare to book.
Dd's instructor has a five month waiting list (he never advertises) and we ended up paying for an app to help book her test, which is coming up shortly.
Everything about learning to drive seems to have gone insane since DS learned. I was expecting it to cost £2,000 to insure her car for the first year. That's gone up massively too.