What qualifications do you need to be a train driver UK?


What qualifications do you need to be 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.


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.


Which country pays train drivers the most?

Estimated average gross monthly earnings of train drivers in purchasing power standard still show UK drivers the highest earners by far: 4392 (UK), 3310 (Denmark), 2792 (Germany and France). These figures are gross, so do not take into account different taxation levels.


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.


Can a foreigner be a train driver in UK?

You must have the right to live and work in Britain and have a good standard of written and spoken English. Foreign train driving qualifications are not recognised on Network Rail or vice-versa.


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.


Which is the highest paid jobs in railway in UK?

Inevitably, perhaps, it is senior management roles are the highest earners and attract the biggest salaries on the railway. The CEO of Network Rail, Andrew Haines, makes close to £600,000 a year, while the chief financial officer, Jeremy Westlake, pulls in £415,000 a year.


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.


Is a Train Driver a good job UK?

A job in the UK rail industry can be rewarding, lucrative, and a promising career pathway. Every day, millions of people across the UK take a train, and for many, it's essential to the way they live their lives. Train drivers play a critical role in getting passengers to their destination safely and promptly.


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.


How do I become a bus driver UK?

How to become a bus driver in the UK
  1. Gain a category B driving licence. ...
  2. Pass a medical test. ...
  3. Apply for a provisional category D licence. ...
  4. Complete the CPC part 1 theory test. ...
  5. Finish the CPC part 2 case studies test. ...
  6. Pass CPC parts 3a and 3b practical tests. ...
  7. Complete the CPC part 4 practical demonstration.


Do train drivers get free travel 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.


What are the challenges of being a train driver?

Train drivers often complain that shift times change frequently, and they have to adjust their work schedules frequently. The shift system is against the biological clock, with train drivers often having to drive at midnight, and the overly intensive shifts do not allow drivers to get enough rest.


What is a train driver called?

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 ...


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.