London’s public transport system heavily relies on skilled bus drivers to keep the city moving. Becoming a bus driver in London requires specialized training, licensing, and a commitment to passenger safety. This guide explores the process, costs, training options, salaries, and job prospects for aspiring bus drivers london.
Bus Driver Training in London: Where to Start?
Requirements to Become a Bus Driver in London
To become a licensed bus driver in London, you must:
- Be at least 18 years old.
- Hold a full UK car driving licence (Category B).
- Obtain a Passenger Carrying Vehicle (PCV) licence.
- Complete the Driver Certificate of Professional Competence (CPC).
- Pass a medical examination.
Private Bus Driver Training in London
Benefits of Private Training
- Flexible training schedules.
- Faster completion times.
- No job commitment to a particular employer.
Top Private Training Providers
Some of the best private training providers in London include:
- HGV Training Centre
- Wallace School of Transport
- London Transport Training
Bus Driver Training London Cost
Training costs vary based on the provider, but on average:
- Full PCV training (including all tests and medical exams): £2,500 – £5,000
- Employer-sponsored training: Often free, with a work contract requirement.
How Long Does It Take to Train as a London Bus Driver?
- Average Training Duration: 6-8 weeks
- Steps to Becoming a Bus Driver:
- Apply for a provisional bus licence.
- Pass a medical exam.
- Take and pass the PCV theory test.
- Complete CPC training.
- Pass the practical driving test.
- Receive a full PCV licence and start working.
How Much Is a London Bus Driver Paid?
Average Salary for London Bus Drivers
- Newly qualified drivers: £26,000 – £30,000 per year
- Experienced drivers: £32,000 – £40,000 per year
- Overtime opportunities can increase earnings significantly.
How Much Do Trainee Bus Drivers Get Paid in London?
- During training: £20,000 – £22,000 per year
- Some companies offer a training allowance.
Are Bus Drivers in Demand in the UK?
- High Demand: The UK faces a shortage of bus drivers, making it a promising career choice.
- Job Security: London bus companies continuously hire drivers.
- Career Growth: Opportunities to advance to supervisory or managerial roles.
Why EP Training?
EP Training is a leading provider of HIAB training in London, offering a range of courses for individuals and businesses. Their training programs are designed to ensure compliance with UK safety regulations and provide candidates with the necessary skills to operate forklifts safely and efficiently.
Bus driver training Options at EP Training
- Option 1: D1 with Driver CPC Training Course £1,649.00
- Option 2: D1 without Driver CPC £1,449.00
Training Location:
EP Training’s Bus Driver training london courses are held in Leatherhead, Surrey, easily accessible by South Western Railway from Waterloo. The journey takes 42 minutes, with the 9:54 AM train arriving at Leatherhead by 10:36 AM. The training centre is well-equipped with expert instructors and industry-standard forklifts, providing hands-on experience in a professional setting.
Conclusion
Becoming a bus driver in London requires commitment, training, and certification, but it offers stable employment and good earnings. Whether you choose private training or an employer-sponsored program, the career prospects remain strong with rising demand for bus drivers across the UK.
People Also read:
