Bus Driver Trainee: Key Skills, Qualifications and Career Path
Learn about the key skills, qualifications, and career path for a Bus Driver Trainee
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Practice Now »What is a Bus Driver Trainee?
As a Bus Driver Trainee in the UK, you will learn how to operate passenger-carrying vehicles like buses, coaches, and minibuses safely and efficiently. This role will teach you the skills needed to provide transportation services and ensure a comfortable journey for passengers.
Skills
- Excellent driving skills and knowledge of traffic laws and regulations
- Good communication and interpersonal skills to interact with passengers and colleagues
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team
- Strong problem-solving and decision-making skills
- Physical fitness and ability to sit for long periods of time
- Attention to detail and ability to follow schedules and routes
- Flexibility and adaptability to changing situations and schedules
- Customer service skills to provide a positive experience for passengers
- Basic computer skills to operate ticketing and GPS systems
- Safety awareness and ability to respond to emergencies
Qualifications & Education
- Possession of a full car driving licence
- Successful completion of the Passenger Carrying Vehicle (PCV) test, which includes a theoretical examination and assessed driving
- Minimum age requirement of 18 years old for entry to the PCV test
- Optional NVQs/SVQs in Transporting Passengers by Road available at Levels 2 and 3
Career Path
Frequently Asked Questions
To become a trainee bus driver in the UK, you need to apply for a provisional HGV or bus licence, pass the 5 tests that make up the Driver CPC, and take 35 hours of periodic training every 5 years to stay qualified.
To become a bus driver in the UK, you typically need at least 1 year of car driving experience. You will then undergo Passenger Carrying Vehicle (PCV) driver training, which can last between 1 and 6 weeks. Your employer will also provide training for the Certificate of Professional Competence or Driver CPC.
Yes, being a bus driver can be a good career choice, especially if you enjoy interacting with different people and want to avoid the solitary hours of being an HGV driver.
To be a bus driver in the UK, you need to hold a full driver's licence with at least one year of UK driving experience and a current PCV licence and Drivers Qualification Card or be prepared to train for one. Applicants with 6 penalty points may be considered on an individual basis.
Identify your strengths and weakness in a realistic Bus Driver Trainee mock interview, under 10 minutes
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