Overview
- New regulations implemented this summer allow 18‑year‑olds to begin train driver training rather than having to wait until age 20.
- The Department for Transport has run a recruitment push for school leavers to channel applicants into paid trainee and apprenticeship roles.
- Government figures cite shortages and an ageing workforce, noting fewer than 4% of drivers are under 30, under 12% are women, and roughly one quarter of drivers will reach retirement age by 2030.
- Training is promoted as an earn‑while‑you‑learn entry route with no university degree required and national trainee pay reported between £27,000 and £33,000.
- The change is framed as part of wider rail reforms and follows industry backing and union support, with new applicant resources from the Train Drivers Academy and officials warning that further hiring will still be needed to meet long‑term demand.