How to become A Train Driver

As the famed writer Agatha Christie remarked, “To travel by train is to see nature and human beings, towns and churches, and rivers, in fact, to see life.” And Train Drivers are the fortunate few who get to experience such wonders regularly while driving the medium that allows the rest of us to partake of them now and then.

• Engine Driver
• Railway Train Driver
• Train Operator
• Locomotive Handler

What do Train Drivers do?

A Train Driver would typically need to:

• Transport passengers and freight via trains to pre-determined destinations as per a fixed schedule
• Cooperate with the station and headquarters personnel to receive train schedules and cargo lists
• Ensure all systems, the engine and the train, in general, are in a fit condition before beginning the journey; see to it that the correct freight is loaded, if necessary
• Confirm knowledge of the precise route agreed upon with the control centre or station headquarters; learn about any ongoing problems with the route 
• Leave platforms safely; operate the train between freight depots or stations; monitor weather and track conditions; watch out for route signals
• Communicate with passengers through announcements about schedules and stops, if required
• Adhere to track signalling, safety, and speed instructions; follow procedure and adhere to laws and regulations at all times
• Alert control centres on encountering any issues or hazards en route; use knowledge of emergency procedures, if need be
• Halt the train at scheduled locations and pull into stations safely; control automatic doors
• Position and hand over control of the engines to drivers on the next shift; keep them informed about any relevant incidents or engine issues 
• Make official note of malfunctioning equipment, onboard incidents or delays that may have affected the service

The cab where Train Drivers spend most of their time while operating the train can be pretty noisy and exposed to the elements of nature. Those who operate on long-distance routes may find themselves often spending nights in different locations.

Train Drivers generally work 35 hours a week, spread across four or five shifts scheduled at any time, including evenings, late nights, and weekends.

Candidates for this position must apply directly to their employers and undergo a rigorous selection procedure. 

Train Drivers are generally employed by: 

• Train Operating Companies
• Eurostar
• Underground Rail Companies
• Metro & Light-rail Companies
• Engineering Supply Companies
• Freight Companies

Professional associations and organisations, such as the European Railway Agency, are crucial for Train Drivers interested in pursuing professional development or connecting with like-minded professionals in their industry or occupation. Membership in one or more adds value to your resume while bolstering your credentials and qualifications.

• Stress from en-route delays and hazards
• Lack of work-life balance because of long-distance schedules that warrant frequent overnight trips away from home
• A noisy workplace which may be exposed to the elements of nature
• Solitary nature of the job

Newbies can apply to a train operating company and begin a train driver advanced apprenticeship. Individuals who have accumulated significant work experience as rail passenger assistants, train conductors, station/maintenance staff can also apply for a trainee driver post.

Read about the profession and interview/job shadow experts working in trains to prove your commitment to course providers and prospective employers.

A high school diploma or GCSEs (General Certificates of Secondary Education) / A levels (Advanced levels) in English and Mathematics are necessary for Train Drivers. In addition, adequate knowledge of mechanics or electrical engineering would also help prospective professionals in this field understand the job’s technical requirements.

Certification demonstrates a Train Driver’s competence in a skill set, typically through work experience, training, and passing an examination. Employers prefer candidates who acquire a Qualified Train Driver Certification from an objective and reputed organisation. 

Train Drivers must obtain government licenses to operate both passenger and freight trains. Candidates must have completed a formal engineer program and be prepared to take the unique test for licensure at any point during their training. Licensure requires them to respond appropriately to certain situations.

Candidates must usually be between 18-21 years old and pass tests that gauge their knowledge of the railroads and professional skills. Medical assessments and screenings for drugs and alcohol will also take note of your hearing and vision.

Employees with consistently high levels of performance may be eligible for promotion into managerial or supervisory roles. Many Train Drivers also opt to become Trainers, assisting students in classrooms, operating driver simulators, and going along with trainees on journeys. Others choose to advance into operations management, where they are tasked with planning future rail developments. 

Candidates with knowledge of mechanics or electrical engineering have the best job prospects.

Continuing professional development (CPD) will help an active Train Driver build personal skills and proficiency through work-based learning, a professional activity, formal education, or self-directed learning. It allows you to upskill continually, regardless of your age, job, or level of knowledge.

On-the-job training before you can operate a train can last anywhere between 9 months to 2 years. It usually includes theory lessons taught in formal classroom settings and driving practice with qualified instructors, using simulators and railyards. You may also obtain a Personal Track Safety certificate in the process and earn work-based qualifications. 

The Locomotive Industry Chugs Along

In 1804, the average speed of the first practical steam locomotive launched by Englishman Richard Trevithick was less than ten miles per hour (mph). These days, trains along high-speed rail lines are commonly expected to travel 30 times as fast.

In 1964, when Japan’s first bullet train or ‘Shinkansen’, was inaugurated coinciding with the Tokyo Olympics, they could match speeds greater than 130 mph. In the many years since then, the maximum speed recorded by their successors has reached an impressive 361 mph. 

The French TGV, a commercial train on steel wheels, holds the world record for the fastest train, reaching 574.8 km/h, as recorded on 3 April 2007. 

Tens of thousands of commuters take for granted the dedication and skills of Train Drivers worldwide who ensure all their precious charges, human or otherwise, reach their intended destinations intact and on time. 

As a Train Driver, you must be sensible and responsible. You also need to be aware of safety regulations and adhere to them at all times.