Bus/Coach Driver

Also known as:

Coach Driver
Driver, Bus/Coach

Introduction

Bus drivers work for local bus services, picking up passengers and dropping them off at scheduled stops along a regular route. Coach drivers usually drive longer distances, including some motorway driving.

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Work Activities

The majority of bus drivers work on local routes, picking up passengers and dropping them off at scheduled stops. Most services are one person operations where the driver collects fares, issues tickets and checks passengers' bus passes or season tickets as they get on the bus.

These could be city, town or rural services. The driver must try to keep to a timetable and may be expected to give passengers information about connecting services, fares or bus times.

Drivers keep radio contact with a communication centre to keep them informed of any problems such as roadworks, accidents or weather conditions. This also improves driver and passenger security, especially on late night services.

Coach drivers make longer journeys. For example, intercity express coach services involve driving long distances between stops, often on a motorway. There are strict laws governing the hours drivers should work, so on very long distances, drivers work in pairs.

Drivers on express coaches are responsible for loading and unloading passengers' suitcases from the luggage compartment when passengers get on or leave the coach. They may also help elderly or disabled passengers to get on or off.

Some bus companies offer day excursions or holiday tours within the UK or on mainland Europe. They may also operate private services for schools, particularly in rural areas.

Most drivers have to wear a uniform.

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Personal Qualities and Skills

You must be skilful in driving and steering your bus or coach in busy traffic or along country roads and in all types of weather conditions. You must be able to concentrate at all times as well as remaining patient and calm. You should be able to deal with members of the public in a friendly and helpful manner.

You should be reliable, a good timekeeper and able to work without supervision. Some numerical ability is necessary for those drivers dealing with fares. It is important for coach drivers to have a good knowledge of routes.

Drivers need to be reasonably fit and in good health. There may be a medical examination.

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Pay and Opportunities

The pay rates given below are approximate.

Pay rates for bus/coach drivers are in the range of £250 - £300 a week, rising to £350 - £420. Top earners can make around £500 a week.

Bus/coach drivers generally work a 39-42 hour week, and are often required to work eight-hour split shifts. Drivers on some tour jobs have to be away from home for long intervals. Weekend work is part of the regular schedule. Overtime is possible.

Opportunities for drivers exist with local authorities, private bus companies, private coach hire/charter firms, express services and tour operators. Career development is usually towards inspector level, although some experienced drivers may move into scheduling/rota-making duties.

There are also opportunities for drivers who hold the Certificate of Professional Competence (CPC) to become self-employed.

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Adult Opportunities

Age limits apply to this occupation.

Entrants must be over the age of 21 to gain a Passenger Carrying Vehicle (PCV) licence in Category D, which entitles the holder to drive any size bus, including double-decker vehicles. There are some exceptions for people aged 18 - 21 applying for other categories.

From September 2008 PCV drivers will need to hold a Certificate of Professional Competence, known as a Drivers CPC as well as the PCV licence. Further details are available from the Transport Office at www.transportoffice.gov.uk.

Many employers accept applicants up to retirement age who pass a medical test.

Several years' previous experience as a van or minibus driver can be an advantage. Having worked with the public is also helpful.

A clean current driving licence is necessary. Some employers prefer those who already hold a PCV (Passenger Carrying Vehicle) licence.

2% of bus and coach drivers are self-employed. 11% work part-time. 2% have flexible hours. 2% of employees work on a temporary basis

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