How do I qualify as a train driver UK?


How do I qualify as a train driver UK? You can apply directly to a train operating company to become a trainee driver. Employers usually expect you to have GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C) in English and maths, or equivalent qualifications. Training can last between 12 and 24 months.


Is it hard to become a train driver in the UK?

The training usually takes around 12-18 months to complete, and you'll need some GCSEs in English and maths to apply. start work as a rail passenger assistant or train conductor. You can then apply for a trainee driver position. apply directly to a rail company to become a trainee driver.


Do train drivers work Christmas Day?

This is supplemented by a variable number (typically eight to ten) of odd days – floaters – to be taken off, by application, when you want. Bank Holidays are nowadays treated as ordinary working days, apart from Christmas Day & Boxing Day when the railway virtually shuts down and almost everyone is booked off anyway.


How much do tube drivers earn?

In a statement, TfL said: “The average base pay of a Tube driver is £55,011. The overwhelming majority earned total remuneration – including base pay, overtime, employer pension contributions and certain allowances - of £70,000 or considerably less.


How long does it take to become a qualified train driver UK?

You can apply directly to a train operating company to become a trainee driver. Employers usually expect you to have GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C) in English and maths, or equivalent qualifications. Training can last between 12 and 24 months.


Do you need a degree to be a train driver UK?

You do not always need specific qualifications to be a Train Driver, although most employers will expect you to have a good general standard of education, including GCSEs in Maths and English. Some mechanical or electrical knowledge may also be useful.


How many hours do train drivers work UK?

Train drivers work 35 hours per week, spread over 4 to 5 shifts (also known as turns). These may include weekends, evenings, nights and Bank Holidays. Freight engine drivers tend to work more night shifts and do long-distance routes, which often entails overnight stays away from home.


Is there a age limit to become a train driver UK?

The minimum age for a train driver on Network Rail lines is 21; 18 on the London Underground or for employment wholly within depot confines. Remember that these are only legal minimums; the way the industry works these days means you will probably be well above these ages before you get a driving job.


What are the benefits of being a train driver in the UK?

As a part of the rail industry, you will reap all benefits provided from the industry, such as free or discounted travel on the rail company route you work for, reduced rate on UK rail routes, discounts on international rail travel (rail companies across Europe and Australia), and excellent pension benefits.


How much do train drivers make per hour UK?

How much does a Train driver make in United Kingdom? The average train driver salary in the United Kingdom is £51,000 per year or £26.15 per hour. Entry level positions start at £33,508 per year while most experienced workers make up to £61,970 per year.


What is the average age of a train driver?

Age and gender The median age of Train Drivers is 48 years. This is higher than the all jobs average of 40 years.


How much do train drivers get paid UK?

Generally, train driver salaries can range from around £35,000 to £65,000 per year before tax. However, it's important to note that these figures can change over time due to various factors such as negotiations, changes in industry regulations, cost of living adjustments, and economic conditions. For the most up-...


What do train drivers do all day?

Complying with professional and federal rules and regulations relating to train operation and safety. Monitoring the speed, air pressure and other operational measurements of the train. Using mechanical controls such as throttles and air brakes to control the speed and motion of the train.


What do you call a train driver?

A train driver, engine driver, engineman or locomotive driver, commonly known as an engineer or railroad engineer in the United States and Canada, and also as a locomotive handler, locomotive engineer, locomotive operator, train operator, or motorman, is a person who operates a train, railcar, or other rail transport ...


How do train drivers go to the toilet?

Some train drivers are changing sanitary towels in bushes by the side of the track – that's outrageous in a first world country in 2021. Others urinate or defecate into carrier bags and bottles.


Is it hard to be a train driver?

Being a train driver is not for the faint-hearted, as there is a lot of responsibility associated with the role. Controlling a fast-moving train and getting hundreds of passengers or cargo safely to their destinations may be daunting for some.


Are train drivers in demand UK?

A train driver is a sought-after role across every train operating company for which the number and calibre of applicants is very high.


Where do train drivers get paid the most?

The average Train Driver in the US makes $47,287. Train Drivers make the most in San Francisco, CA at $70,953, averaging total compensation 50% greater than the US average.


Where do train drivers sleep?

Neither the conductor nor the engineer is allowed to sleep on the train. They must be awake and alert throughout their entire shift. So, where do they sleep? After their shift, conductors and engineers sleep either at home or in a motel at an away terminal.


What are the top 3 priorities of a train driver?

Train Driver Careers: The Top 3 Commandments
  • What do we mean by train driver careers core qualities? ...
  • Thou Shalt Pay Attention To Detail. ...
  • Thou Shalt Care About The Customer. ...
  • Thou Shalt Concentrate.


Do train drivers earn more than doctors UK?

Research from Glassdoor discovered that train drivers on average are paid £3,190 more than doctors. Glassdoor found key workers get paid: Train Driver, average median annual base pay: £54,959 in London £54,974 outside London.