February 14 2022

There are a whole range of opportunities in the sector and so those interested have many choices to suit their lifestyle.

 

Regular work or variety

Bus drivers often drive the same route or a group of routes every day.  They will generally be provided with a roster many weeks in advance showing their start/finish times and days off and changes to these will generally only be made with the agreement of the driver.  Drivers have easy access to back-up, usually with a radio/mobile communications link to a control room.

Coach drivers will often go somewhere different every day.  Some do the home to school routes. Others will drive groups on days out or longer trips both in the UK and Europe. Some coach drivers focus on corporate work.  Football teams including Premier League and national teams generally use coaches.

You can find out more about the differences between driving a bus and driving a coach here.

 

Potential to earn

Most drivers are guaranteed a fixed weekly or monthly wage but there will often be opportunities to work extra hours to earn more money.  Some coach drivers have the opportunity to earn tips, especially when working with groups of overseas visitors who are touring the UK by coach.

 

Training opportunities

You can drive a bus or coach on a ‘regular service’ up to 50 kilometres in length from age 18.

You can drive other coach or bus services in the UK from age 20.

Most operators offer extensive training. For new bus and coach drivers, this will initially be focussed on passing the bus/coach driving test, comprised of a series of modules including a theory and a practical test.  The training will also include the different types of bus/coach that the operator uses, including their different features and controls. It will also cover company procedures, how to deal with a range of situations and training in the use of equipment such as ticket machines and radios/mobile communications. Drivers will receive ongoing training as part of the ‘Driver Certificate of Professional Competence’. Some companies also offer apprenticeships.

 

Other benefits

Get behind the wheel of a very expensive vehicle!  A new double-deck bus costs around £200,000 and the average mid-range coach costs around £250,000.  Modern vehicles are very technologically advanced in terms of safety features, engines and interior equipment. 

 

Make a difference

Buses and coaches are some of the most environmentally friendly vehicles around.  With poor air quality and congestion affecting many areas, helping move large numbers of people around efficiently can reduce the number of cars on the road and can really improve the local environment.

Bus and coach services can make a real difference to the community. Many people don’t have access to a car or don’t like driving, especially in very busy traffic environments or over longer distances.  Buses and coaches help these people to get out and about – to get to work or education, to go shopping, access other essential services or to enjoy some leisure time and meet other people.