Bus drivers are responsible for safely transporting passengers along set routes within towns, cities, or to other destinations. They help people get to work, school, and other important places, often working with the public and providing good customer service. Duties include checking tickets, helping passengers with mobility needs, following schedules, and ensuring the safety of all on board. You will need a Passenger Carrying Vehicle (PCV) licence and Driver Certificate of Professional Competence (CPC) to work as a bus driver in the UK. The role can be rewarding for those who enjoy driving and interacting with people, but it may also involve dealing with busy traffic and challenging situations.
The average salary for a bus driver in the UK is between £21,000 and £32,000 per year, depending on experience and location.
There are approximately 100,000 bus and coach drivers employed across the UK.
Bus drivers typically work 37 to 45 hours per week, which may include early mornings, late evenings, weekends, and bank holidays.
Drives school buses to transport children safely to and from school, ensuring their welfare on the journey.
Operates coaches for sightseeing tours, providing commentary and ensuring tourists have a safe and enjoyable experience.
Drives buses that connect parking facilities with city centres or event venues, helping passengers complete their journeys conveniently.
You must be aged 18 or over to train and work as a bus driver in the UK.
Most bus companies require drivers to be at least 18 years old, although some may prefer candidates who are 21 or older, especially for certain routes. Check the specific age requirements of the bus operator you are interested in.
You must already have a full UK driving licence to start training as a bus driver.
A clean driving record can improve your chances of being accepted onto a bus driver training programme. If you have any points or convictions, check with employers, as some may have restrictions.
Train for and pass the tests needed for a PCV licence, allowing you to legally drive buses.
PCV licence training includes both theory and practical elements. Training is often provided by bus companies, and covers large vehicle handling, passenger safety, and route planning. Once you pass, you will be able to drive buses professionally.
You need to pass the Driver CPC theory and practical tests to work as a professional bus driver.
The Driver CPC consists of four parts: theory test, case studies, practical driving test, and practical demonstration. You must also complete 35 hours of periodic training every 5 years to keep your CPC valid.
Search for bus driver vacancies with local or national bus companies and submit your application.
Check company websites, job boards, and local newspapers for vacancies. Prepare a CV highlighting your driving experience and customer service skills. Some companies may also have their own recruitment processes and assessments.
Participate in interviews and possibly complete additional driving or customer service assessments.
Employers may ask you about your understanding of safety, your approach to customer service, and your ability to deal with stressful situations. Practical assessments could include driving tests in a bus or simulated environments.
Once hired, start your role and gain experience driving buses and serving passengers.
New drivers often receive additional training or mentoring on specific routes and company procedures. You will build your confidence and learn to handle various situations, such as busy routes or dealing with difficult passengers.
Take opportunities for advanced training or to move into supervisory or training roles if desired.
With experience, you could become a lead driver, supervisor, or move into training new drivers. Some companies also offer management training programmes for experienced staff.
Explore relevant apprenticeships that can help you kickstart your career in Bus Driver. Apprenticeships offer hands-on experience and training while earning a wage.
A Bus Driver and a Bus or coach driver both operate passenger vehicles to transport people over various distances. They require similar driving qualifications, licences, and safety standards, making them closely matched in terms of qualifications and job responsibilities.
You can get into this job through:
You can apply to do a Passenger Transport Driver Level 2 Intermediate Apprenticeship, with a bus or coach company.
You will need to hold at least a Category B (car driving licence) to start training.
The apprenticeship typically takes 12 months to complete and combines workplace training with off-the-job study.
You'll usually need:
You can apply to bus or coach companies and train on the job.
Most companies will expect you to have a at least 6 months' car driving experience.
You would be put through Passenger Carrying Vehicle (PCV) driver training that normally lasts between 1 and 6 weeks.
Your employer will also give you training for the Certificate of Professional Competence or Driver CPC.
Some travel companies offer contracts where you receive a daily rate until the job is complete. For example, it might be driving passengers on a coaching holiday. In cases like these, the rates can be from £120 a day upwards.
You can find out how to become a qualified bus driver on GOV.UK.
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