Train driver

Train drivers operate passenger trains and goods trains around the country.

Work activities

Train drivers drive diesel or electric trains to transport passengers and goods. Train drivers must have a detailed knowledge of their trains. This includes knowing about:

• The routes and trains they are driving.
• The signalling systems.
• Rail safety regulations.
• Emergency procedures.

Drivers have to look out for signals, speed restrictions, warning systems and stations. Signalling rules have to be learned and observed. Drivers stop the train when required for passengers to get on or off and for goods to be loaded and unloaded.

Train drivers are expected to work without direct supervision, keep a driving record, and report any train defects. Drivers wear a uniform. They spend most of their time on trains, usually in the cab alone, but in reasonably comfortable - although sometimes noisy - conditions. Some outdoor work may be required.

Personal qualities and skills

To do this job well, you’ll need:

• A responsible attitude to your work.
• The ability to stay calm in stressful situations.
• Sound judgement, quick reactions and initiative.
• To be able to observe rules and regulations, as drivers are expected to follow set procedures.
• Stamina to keep alert and concentrate for long periods, as driving trains can be tiring and monotonous.

Upon contact with passengers, you should be pleasant, helpful and courteous. Efficiency, reliability and punctuality are important. It is important that you are reasonably fit and healthy, with normal colour vision, good eyesight, and excellent hearing.

Applicants must pass a medical examination, which includes tests for alcohol and drug abuse.

The following future skills shortages have been identified:

• Customer service skills.
• People management skills.
• Leadership/management skills.
• Foreign languages.
• Teamworking.

Pay and opportunities

Salaries vary depending on the Train Operating Company (TOC). The pay rates given are approximate. Trainee drivers start on around £24,000, with pay rising to £65,000 with experience.

Train drivers usually work a 35–40-hour week, which will include shift work, evenings, weekends, and public holidays. Overtime is common.

Demand for train drivers is steady. However, there is often very strong competition for vacancies.

Employment is with Train Operating Companies (TOCs) and also with London Underground and Eurostar. Train drivers work on board trains, driving to local/ national destinations throughout the UK.

What’s happening in this work area?

Rail usage has been steadily climbing over many years and is forecast to continue into the future. 

Where are vacancies advertised?

Vacancies are advertised on all the major job boards, and on the Government’s Find a Job and Find an Apprenticeship services. Vacancies are also advertised on TOCs’ websites.

Entry routes and training

Train Operating Companies (TOCs) recruit people for training. This is a popular career to enter and many vacancies are filled by people already working for TOCs in other roles. For this reason, it is sometimes worth gaining employment with a TOC in a different role before applying for driver vacancies. The minimum age for training is 18, although you have to be 21 to drive on Network Rail lines. An level 3 (advanced) apprenticeship is also a great way into the profession.

Training will be on-the-job. Language training may be necessary for drivers for the Channel Tunnel route. You also need to have plenty of experience in operating high-speed trains.

Train drivers undergo regular assessment because of the importance of safety regulations. Also, random alcohol and drugs tests are carried out.

With experience, train drivers will often be given more demanding routes to work. Some drivers move into training roles.

Qualifications

No academic qualifications are usually required but GCSEs in English and maths would be useful. You’ll have to take assessment tests as part of the recruitment process. If you enter the career through an apprenticeship, you will need GCSEs in maths and English.

Adult opportunities

Age limits apply to this occupation. The minimum age for a train driver on Network Rail lines is 21. Trainee drivers aged 18-21 may be able to work in yards and depots away from passenger lines. On London Underground the minimum age is 18.

It may be possible to get into this career via the Rail Services Intermediate Level Apprenticeship.

Skills gaps have been identified. The skills most valuable to the rail industry include:

• Customer service
• Communication
• Organisational and planning skills
• Team working
• Health and safety
• Foreign languages.

People who have any of these skills may be at an advantage.

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• Bus/rail customer service assistant
• Lorry driver
• Railway station assistant
• Train manager
• Tram driver
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