If you are in a pro/am competition that is 10 mins away from your house and its just a friday that you would compete do you need to buy a hotel room? I feel it would be a waste of money when it is clearly something me and my instructor can drive to cause its local. This was always a thought in my mind so any answers would be greatly appreciated. If I didn't have to get one it would be a big money saver! lol

I have done both.
The decision, for me, was and is based on the competition schedule.
There are a number of organizations who have packages that do not include hotel rooms.
My pro and some of my other friends with their instructors have also done both. However, make sure you bring everything you need including a spare pair of shoes in case something happens.

"If you are in a pro/am competition that is 10 mins away from your house and its just a friday that you would compete do you need to buy a hotel room? I feel it would be a waste of money when it is clearly something me and my instructor can drive to cause its local. This was always a thought in my mind so any answers would be greatly appreciated. If I didn't have to get one it would be a big money saver! lol"

Of you don't have to get one. It would be nice as a place to change into your costume, but seems like an expensive way to solve a fairly minor problem.

No, you do not have to pay for a hotel room and I would not do it. Pro-am is expensive enough without 'it would be nice have' extras. My pro partner would never even suggest it, he is very good about keeping expenses down to a reasonable level.

thank you all for the help! i never been to one and would like to try it .. i found some local competitions that aren't too expensive and i really would only do one or two dances to save money. i don't think my pro partner is the type to rip me off. it would seem very unlikely. but i want to research and now what is a good amount for a teacher to charge and all. some were within reason cause they have to make money which i understand but some were absolutely insane!!!!! thank you all once again!