To become a train driver in the UK, and the length of time this will take, can depend on a number of factors. For start, you will have to apply for roles when they become available with train operating companies. The selection process for this can be lengthy and requires you pass a number of stages before you are selected as a trainee train driver. To apply and be successful you must be over 21 and pass an initial application, online tests, psychometric assessments which test your concentration and reaction abilities. You will also need to attend a number of interviews. From start to finish the selection process can last for 6 months or more. If successful you will be offered employment as a trainee train driver. From this point onwards you will undertake training with the TOC until you become a fully qualified train driver. This can take from twelve to fifteen months to achieve this stage. 

One of the reasons why the train driver occupation is so popular, is the excellent salary and benefits which are on offer. When you start as a trainee train driver you will earn on the lower scale and average salary of £25,200. However, once qualified your earning potential would increase dramatically with an average basic salary of around £48,500 pa. Some train operating companies offer well in excess of £55,000 for qualified train drivers. Earning potential could be further increased with promotion or with a specialist service such as a Eurostar driver for example.

Becoming a train driver is an extremely popular profession. Because of this there on average over 1,000 applicants for each vacancy. Naturally purely based on the competition for vacancies, the chance of success is slim. Having said that, people are successful, so it is not impossible. To be one of the very few who are successful will require huge commitment and effort. The selection process is extremely difficult, but with the right mindset and guidance, you can be successful in becoming a trainee train driver. During the selection process, you will need to be able to demonstrate high levels of concentration and exceptional reaction skills. You will also need to follow strict safety procedures and policies and act in the best interest of the customer at all times. The selection process and assessments are designed to test your abilities and skills in these areas plus more. Due to the nature and earning potential and popularity of the role, train driver jobs are not advertised all of the time, so when vacancies become available, you must seize your opportunity.

To train to become a UK train driver you will need to apply for and pass a stringent selection process with a train operating company or TOC for short. Successful applicants will be offered a position as a trainee train driver, where they will commence a train driver training course. Depending on the TOC this course can last between a year and fifteen months, sometimes longer. The course will consist of both practical and classroom-based exercises. Some of the areas you will be training on will be:

• Train driver rules and regulations;
• Train handling;
• Knowledge of traction
• Route knowledge
• Safety procedures.

To finish the training course and become a qualified train driver, you will also be required to have completed a number of hours of train driving accompanied and unaccompanied. The set hours for this can vary between TOCs but can vary between 200 – 255 hours.

The standard working hours for train drivers is 35 hours per week. This will be split over different shifts usually covering 4 to 5 days, which will cover evening and weekends. However, the shift pattern will depend on the company you work for and its cargo, as working hours will differ between passenger and freight trains.

You do not require any formal qualifications to become a train driver in the UK, but this may vary with the train operating company, so double check when applying for any roles.

What you will be required to do is pass a stringent selection process and be able to demonstrate a number of core skills which will be required. These consist of the following:

• Exceptional concentration skills;
• Observational skills;
• Remain calm under pressure;
• Good customer service qualities;
• Pay attention to detail;
• Follow strict rules and safety procedures;
• Be able to work as part of a team and on your own;
• Comfortable operating equipment, computers and other devices.

The training can take between 12 to 18 months, but this does depend on the TOC you have applied to. During your training, you can expect to undergo a number of modular tests and complete a TOC-specified number of hours train driving accompanied by an experienced train driver. A number of these hours will be undertaken during darkness. Once you have completed your training, you will have gained a nationally recognised qualification and hold the status of Qualified Train Driver.

As well as driving the train, you’ll have a number of customer service responsibilities – addressing passengers using the on-board PA system, keeping them informed, and helping to develop good passenger relations.

You’ll also make sure their safety is paramount at all times, reacting quickly and calmly in an emergency situation and reporting incidents wherever necessary.

Train drivers need to be able to maintain exceptional levels of concentration – after all, this is a high-pressure role, calling for you to be cool, calm and responsible. You’ll also be a strong communicator, and capable of working on your own initiative.

Flexibility is also essential, since trains operate 24 hours a day, all year round. That means your shift lengths and patterns will vary, including early starts, late finishes, weekends and bank holidays.