Train Driver Tells how to become a train driver. Pathways to train driving Jobs. Career Advice

[@semajttam]

Thanks Richard :) 21 years ago I applied to be a train driver with Chiltern, I was 19. I passed the interview, the isometric & Scaat tests and the final interview. Got to the medical annnnnnnd.....partially colourblind 🤦‍♂️

[@DadRail]

Sorry to hear that, such a shame having got so far.

[@Samsungphone2]

Kinda sad and I must say very bright to apply at such a young age. Hope you are doing something you enjoy for work.

[@jameswingrove7421]

My Dad drives for TPE and has been on since the back end of 2004 - early 2005 ish. I’ve just joined the railway this year having spent 7 years trying and landed a shunting role for DB Cargo with the aim of working up to being a driver. Got to be very patient! But it’s so worth it in the end.

[@Steven-qi4gm]

Does your dad enjoy driving for TPE? Ive applied to them

[@jameswingrove7421]

@@Steven-qi4gm Yeah, he’s happy with it. There’s good bits and not so good bits just like with every job. He keeps telling me to apply. But truthfully I’d rather stay on freight, more laid back.

[@Samsungphone2]

@@jameswingrove7421 Is there pros and cons to freight drivers? Are the salaries much different.

[@LMAO2510]

@@Steven-qi4gm who wouldn’t be happy on £80,000 per year lol

[@r3playretro]

It was a lot easier to get a job as a train driver in the 1970-80's than it is today. The pay was so bad then. When the average wage in Britain was £100 a week, train drivers were on £60 a week. My dad used to have to work overtime to get his salary up to a decent level. The train companies were forced to increase train drivers basic pay or they would eventually have no drivers to drive their trains.

[@DadRail]

This is very true from what some of the old boys tell me. Although the job isn’t what it was back then.

[@imcadam121]

I've worked in the industry since I left school.I went solo as a Traindriver nearly 28 years ago.It's not for everyone but I'm glad that I found my nieche when I did.I honestly couldn't imagine doing else for a living.Go for it!

[@sm0g-810]

About being more likely to get hired internally for driver positions. I said the same thing the other day discussing my plans with my partner. If you can be a train conductor and have no major safety issues caused by yourself they're definitely gonna trust you to be a safe driver.

[@Josie.JFitness]

My dad's plaque was unveiled at King's Cross station last week as 'BRITAIN'S FIRST BLACK TRAIN DRIVER'. Great video and advice, my dad would have loved watching your videos 👍🏾

[@DadRail]

Wow that’s amazing! Where abouts is it at Kings X?

[@Sheza58]

@@tyronealaka6537 It's what YOU call racism. You are part of the trouble it seems.

[@G_Diddler]

@@tyronealaka6537 saying someone’s skin colour is not racist at all

[@NoBody-ht1oh]

In the steam days all drivers were black

[@davidmarlonie9502]

I respect what you are saying and congrats to your dad but my cousin an his friend have been driving trains for 25 years this years and he is retiring this year hence I don’t believe your dad was the first but maybe at king cross I’m guessing

[@pingu00728]

Hi, I'm nearly 43 and currently Class 1 HGV driver. I've always had a dream of wanting to be a train driver since being a kid. Getting to end of high school I learnt that you had to start off on platform duties and work your way up, which more or less put me off as I don't really like dealing with the general public. As for starting in this career now I don't think I would do well in any competency tests as I'm not good at expressing things in writing etc. I still would love to do the job, but I think in reality that I would be better at just sticking to my Train simulator games (less stress and responsibility). Great video though, thumbs up!

[@paulm2467]

That’s not how it works now, half of the trainees come directly ‘off the street’. You don’t pass the competency assessments on paper, they are in the two interviews, mainly the structured interview. There is a comprehension test but it’s fairly straightforward as are the reaction and concentration tests. The assessments are tough but you’ll never know until you give it a go. I was 43 when I started, I’d previously worked for myself, I’ve been a driver and instructor for more than 20 years now and still love the job.

[@carmattvidz4426]

Sadly, luck plays a big role if you are successful. My experience was much of the testing is not relevant to the job. It just there to cut down the applications from say a 1000 to a more manageable number. I think the testing is design for 90% of the applicant pool to fail. My pathway in was my career in public transportation. I started off as a taxi driver and then became a transit bus driver. I was also working train substitute services in the bus. This experience gave me a good opportunity to network so I had good reference from current train driver supervisors. The rail network here was restructure and basically nearly all the drivers were replaced (long story) so about 100 train driver roles were vacant. With the demand for driver at a all time high the testing requirement was seriously reduced. I passed with no problems and was hired. I had failed the old testing requirements a year earlier. I am now a qualified mainline, first year train driver and my train driving has been assed multiple times by the driver mangers and senior drivers. I been told my driving is A+ and they are very happy with it. I think that show how none relevant the old testing was. So sadly guys much of it comes down to luck. Make sure you make a plan B if you are not successful. If you are successful it is the best job in the world. The pay is also insanely high. The only downside is this job will give you nightmares. I regularly have nightmares about SPADs and people jumping in front of my train. That is pretty much the only downside is those regular nightmares. Do not feel bad if you fail the pre testing. It design so 90% of people will fail and it really say nothing about what type of train driver you could be.

[@Red-tm1bs]

Luck is where hard work and opportunity meet, if you put in the work, do the research, have the health you'll get the job! The testing definitely isn't designed for 99% to rock up and fail, quite the contrary! In the past if you didn't have a grasp on mechanics or physics then you wouldn't pass and it wiped out loads of good applicants.......the tests nowadays are literally designed so anyone can rock up and take them! And they're much more relevant to the role as well.....the thing with assessments is if you're good at them and know the answer you'll pass, if you're not you won't, that's not luck either it just is what it is. The only thing in the process remotely designed to whittle down numbers is the paper sift right at the beginning....but once again that's not really down to luck....if you don't get through that it's because you didn't read the question properly, your grammar was poor, you live too far away, your answers weren't detailed enough or were just poor, you have a criminal record etc etc etc....none of that is really luck....you get out of applications what you put into them. Also, this job will not give everyone nightmares! That's purely an individual thing, I've had multiple near misses where people have run out in front of me but not one of them has given me a fatality nightmare. The only correct thing you've said here is that the testing doesn't determine what kind of train driver you'll be.....it'll be how much hard work and dedication people put into the training and the role that determines that.

[@shaneryan9076]

3 months on the railway and one thing i can't get over, is abbreviations we love them

[@Chris-Gallagher-92]

I did the test in May this year (and thankfully passed) and I can confirm it’s still as intense as it’s always been! It’s a lot more refined than it’s previous guises but the core tests are still there. Reaction, memory, interview etc.

[@Steven-qi4gm]

Any maths tests pal? I got my psychometric day coming up for trans pennine express. I’m already a tram driver and have passed then before but not sure if they are different on the trains.

[@Chris-Gallagher-92]

@@Steven-qi4gm no maths tests as such, no. I’m not sure what the tram tests involve but these will certainly be different. I’m sure similar themes will appear though.

[@Steven-qi4gm]

@@Chris-Gallagher-92 yeh we operate on heavy rail tracks using block signaling in some areas so the memory and observation ones are very similar, just wants sure if maths was included in trains but glad to hear it isn’t 😆 Thanks for the help pal.

[@everythinggaming7938]

hi im looking to pursue a career as a train driver, how was the memory test like?

[@TheMisterB2u]

The railway is its own world and it's hard for people from the street to understand easily.Thats why getting a railway job first(station staff, conductor,etc) is the best way for you and management to get the best applicant.Previous experience on railway goes a long way towards becoming a driver.Passenger train driving is more intense than freight because of course you have responsibilities for passengers on board(especially D.O.O ), timetable committment and more pressure from management.Freight is more relaxed,just you and the train and less management intensity.Worse part about job is shift work.i.e weekends,nights,early morning starts(0400) and late finishes (0100/0200).Money is excellent and a lot of camaraderie (less than old days though).Keep a good record(safety,sickness, attendance) and you'll have a job for life!Not many train drivers leave once qualified (except to work for other rail companies).

[@DadRail]

agree 100%

[@gbtraintripreports2147]

Oh my gosh! So helpful! I’m an A-level student aspiring to be a train driver, and you’ve given me so much helpful advice!

[@DadRail]

Glad it was helpful!

[@phantombigballs8165]

Almost impossible to get a job

[@Samsungphone2]

@@phantombigballs8165 How long have you been trying and ant luck?

[@Certiwhipps]

any luck?

[@thomasshepard6030]

I started with BR as a fireman at eastfield traction depot Glasgow in 1974 my uncle was a mainline driver in the same depot after 6 weeks at BR training collage I went straight to mainline work within 3 months I was in the drivers seat of class 37s going up the west coast line too Oban with my uncle sitting in the Fireman’s seat loved the job but hated the shifts plus at the time was told it would be at least 8 to 10 years before I would become a mainline driver spent 3 years in the job then changed careers

[@LMAO2510]

Bet you’re regretting it now with £100,000 per year wages

[@brianburns7211]

I’m second generation at the job, following my uncle. He encouraged me to graduate Uni before applying. As Richard said, who knows what the future holds. It isn’t all warm and cozy. The he bosses don’t just get cross and forget about it like on Thomas the Tank Engine. The responsibility is real. With that said, my class was comprised of uni grads and military veterans. I guess that the company thought that the commitment, following directions, and adapting to new ideas were good attributes in prospective employees. They also look at people who’ve had other safety critical jobs.

[@DadRail]

You make a good point, although a university education is required if you have got one then it will be looked upon favourably.

[@peterstorey8158]

@@DadRail My brother followed me onto the railways, but not on the footplate. He started off as a station announcer and within a couple of years applied for management grade training. He was accepted and did various junior ands middle management roles around the country. However there came a point when he could go no higher without a degree. Fortunately at that time BR did support him doing a part-time degree whilst still carrying out his management role. After a few years he gained the degree and was able to move further up through the grades to senior management roles and into the BRB. Whether the privatised TOC's would pay for their management staff to do degree courses whilst still working I don't know, but I suspect not. It's cheaper to take on staff who already have been through university and come out with a degree. So the moral of this tale is yes do get a degree first, because if you want to progress in probably any large industry it will open doors later on. As you said, a driving role doesn't require a degree, and having been a driver for 40 years I cannot see any necessity for one if you don't want to progress up the slippery slope of management, which I never did. The ability to concentrate for very long periods alone in the cab, the ability to learn and put into practice often very complicated and detailed rules without assistance, and the ability to work around the clock, often with little sleep but still following the rules and approved driving techniques without exception, that's the basis of a good successful driver.

[@brianburns7211]

@@peterstorey8158 Well put! I agree that management can be a slippery slope. It requires doing things which I wouldn’t feel good about doing.

[@paulm2467]

Ex police are the current flavour of the month, any of these jobs that require discipline, calmness under pressure and the following of rules and procedures is a good grounding for a train driver.

[@rainmanslim4611]

I'm very interrested in becoming a train driver. Reason is a change of career. Currently a security guard and, working all nights is absolutely killing me. My dream job is working in northern Australia, hauling from the mines to the ports, for 3 main reasons. 1: I work nights and I crave sunlight. 2: its damn cold down here (south-west Victoria) so I crave warmth. 3: money, I wanna buy a house someday abd anything less than a very high paying job makes that impossible.

[@covidwasacon]

Just say all that at the interview....you're guaranteed to get it

[@r.gordontrueblood3188]

Excellent advice! I especially like your advice to school leavers to not leave as soon as you (think) you have met the minimum requirements, but to continue to get more knowledge and skills under your hat (or between the ears) because it will serve you well later... and it applies to all school leavers. I was expecting to hear a comment about what starting salary one might expect as a train driver . Is there a probationary period? Geez, I could ask a hundred questions.

[@DadRail]

Ask away. Starting salary is company dependent. Average around 20k, but it increases as you pass different stages of your training. Probation is normally 1 year after being passed competent. During your training if you fail to meet the standards you can be let go or offered alternative employment where appropriate.

[@Cam80104]

I’ve been a shunter with a South Western train operator for the last 18 months and I’ve passed driver assessments and the multi modal interview just waiting for a driving job to come up now

[@thebagfather4633]

good luck chap hope one comes along soon

[@jethromaris624]

congratulations fella good luck with the job hunting

[@tilidie5272]

I just applied for a trainee train driver role, i was excited but now i fel like a drop in the ocean haha

[@megancooke9358]

I did my assessment centre earlier this week and have just found out that I'm through to the driver manager interview! Just got to lose some weight ahead of the medical if I'm lucky enough to get that far :)

[@DadRail]

Hey congratulations! Don’t worry too much about the weight as long as your weight doesn’t affect your mobility it’s not a problem. I asked this question at my last medical as my weight is never heading in the right direction.

[@sweety1009]

@@DadRail 😂

[@sweety1009]

How did it go Megan? That's great to hear you were successful at the assessment stages😀

[@phantombigballs8165]

I've now given up on becoming a driver, I've watched all the videos, have a very good education, CV is spot on, been in current job 20 years, 44 years old, fit as a fiddle, no medical issues, I never hear a thing when I apply 14 times now. I have friends who are drivers they have helped with my application forms etc. Can't be bothered anymore

[@Algorithm347]

Pretty much the same as me .

[@phantombigballs8165]

@@Algorithm347 its a joke. Don't even get feedback, ever.

[@BibtheBoulder]

Phantom. Take the psychometric test yourself (I think it is around £300, and DB Schenker run the test centres). Once you have passed, tout yourself around to ALL the companies within 50 miles and I would be amazed if you don't get something.

[@zincfn9927]

Need experience maybe get an apprenticeship your still in the age range bro

[@richarddastardly6845]

I’ve given up as well, I’m a qualified commercial pilot and struggle to find jobs

[@lewis8407]

Just what video I needed to see. Leaving school next year so it's a big year as to wether I get my dream Job.

[@DadRail]

Glad I could help!

[@ReNewReViews1]

1000% agree, I’m a shunter for a very large TOC, I joined as revenue in our more northern based counterpart with some flashy new trains I’m now with the green boys and loving my job! Shunting is such a great lead up to driving and that’s my ultimate goal

[@MBison-vm6gq]

You literally read my mind. Thank you so much man 👍🏿

[@midnightteapot5633]

I was a train guard in Victoria Australia for 12 years. We were in the traffic branch and they (drivers) were in the rolling stock branch , and there was no crossover . You either started as a station lad and a shunter as I did or you started cleaning locos then fireman if you wanted to be a driver . We even had different unions .

[@simmon81au]

I've just applied for a traineeship in Melbourne

[@midnightteapot5633]

@@simmon81au what branch , Loco?

[@paulm2467]

That was the old BR way too, it’s all very different in the UK now. Anyone within the company can apply and will already have passed their medical and drugs tests as well as the company interview but they still have to successfully complete all the assessments and the structured interview. We also get thousands of applications from non railway workers and about half of our trainees are new to the industry.

[@ken.ker20]

I’ve been seeking advice and yesterday i came across your KZbin channel. Thank you tons for this and I will definitely be looking for a train career soon.

[@aghauler1964]

Thank you Sir. Very interesting video, I worked for 10 years on A derailment gang, Truely well done video lighting audio working off a tripod and attention to your surroundings, when I applied for my position I was brought in as a 90 day recruit, quite simply my co workers voted if they wanted me in that gang, Again I'm a first time viewer and now a subscriber, Safe travels.

[@DadRail]

Thank you very much!

[@pansearedducklet9054]

I was thinking about joining the rail way like 2 days ago then I find this, good timing

[@DadRail]

Go for it, and good luck!

[@Steppest]

Recently applied to Irish rail. There were a total of 76,000 applications apparently for a total of 60 positions. I got through to the final 100 and had an interview panel (after all the written, online, and computer program tests). Shame I didn’t get the job, but was an interesting experience.

[@DadRail]

Congrats on getting that far! Tempted to try again?

[@Steppest]

@@DadRail I was initially thinking of trying again but they had said that as I had got as far as the interview that they would keep my records on file and would contact me if a position became available. When I saw them advertising for jobs again I got disheartened and decided not to. If you were interested in what tests you go through these were what I had to complete 2 years ago. Medical questionnaire Online problem solving (at home) Online problem solving (at home timed) Information retention and communication (listening to report of an accident and writing details down) Problem solving (abcd) exam conditions Focus retention (half an hour watching a coloured dot move around a “train line” at a certain rate and pressing a button when anything out of the ordinary happened. And finally the interview

[@Red-tm1bs]

​@@Steppestyou shouldn't get disheartened as lots of companies have rolling recruitment and that wouldn't mean that your application is forgotten in the slightest! Railway recruitment is a strange entity at the best of times and can be extremely time consuming. Remember who'll be losing out if you don't apply again for something as daft as being disheartened and remember this is a job where hundreds go for each position, no one has a divine right to get the job no matter if they agree or disagree with how they recruit. One of the key qualities required to obtain a train driver job is perseverance, yes lots of people do get in with their very first application but given the numbers that don't it's very much the exception rather than the rule.....all not applying again proves is that you didn't actually want the job enough. Ask yourself did you literally do all you could to prepare for the testing and interviews etc? Also, did you consider what would happen if you didn't get in and what else you could do for next time to make sure you're candidate they take on? Remember, you wouldn't just scrap your car if it failed it's MOT on a bald tyre would you? You'd work out what the problem was, rectify it and take it back to pass.....this is no different.....another key thing they look for is how positive you are and can you turn negatives into positives. For example, when you go back next time you'll have this experience where you didn't make it through in the bank, you'll have taken your feedback on board, realised where you fell short and you'll put it right!....you don't lose, you learn. Most railway interviews are competency based and done via a scoring method, have you considered starting in another role on the railway? Like a conductor? .....they work to the same rules and regulations, provide customer service and work within a safety critical role....using examples in interviews with that experience behind you generally leads to better replies to questions within the interview......this is why you find a lot of ex emergency services or military personnel thrive in these interviews. Don't be disheartened because of one bump in the road, it took me 7 years of applying and falling short before I got the job. DO NOT GIVE UP! Best of luck

[@RonaldDobson-q1v]

Nice video and it was a pleasure to see you working for south-eastern when 😅was driving 375'a and me on the gateline Richard

[@Xpl0r]

I came in via the shunting grade , basically at the time loads of drivers retiring and they needed new blood . You could say the timing was good , worked for the biggest freight operator back then EWS now with the Blue team.

[@DadRail]

Snap :-)

[@hansmoleman8533]

I did the GWR, then FGW, driver assessment day back in 2004. It was OK but the engineering comprehension test was solid. I don't think any of us at that day were successful. I was a network rail signaller a year later and now a grade 7 in a ROC.

[@DadRail]

Signalling has to be a great career as well

[@joebloggsgogglebox]

I don't understand how train drivers are able to negotiate such high wages; it takes just 1 year of training to become a train driver, and each job placement typically has around a thousand applicants. To become a maths teacher it takes 4 years training (3 years degree + 1 year teacher training), there are far fewer applicants for each job, the hours are longer, and the pay is about 20% less than a train driver. To become a doctor you typically need between 8-10 years training, the work is much more stressful, the hours are longer, but you get paid around 50% more than a train driver.

[@TravelJackJourneys158]

Fantastic video very good advice

[@peterstorey8158]

Much of what was said in the video is correct. However one point that was not really covered was the difference between peoples perception of driving trains, and the reality. Few people outside the industry, and quite a few inside, have little real understanding of the job. Firstly the extremely testing hours of duty. Few, if any, other industries have the kind of shift work that drivers must do. It would be a completely different life if drivers only ever worked 9-5. They rarely work office hours. Far more likely is a succession of 3 or 4 am starts followed by late afternoon starts, then full night's. There is very little pattern to it at most depots because of the range of designated work. Some might think that attractive but until you actually work month after month with disrupted sleep patterns, a restricted social life, and trying to sleep during the day when neighbours and traffic noise are doing their best to keep you awake. Imagine having to go back to work night after night with just a few hours sleep during the day. It's hard to say the least. And your employer rightly expects you to be on top of your job 24/7 regardless of how much sleep you've had. I joined the railways in 1971 on the first Traction Trainee course on the Western Region. 24 young men were on that course, some dropped out during the training to be Secondmen, but most passed the exams at the end, and went out to various depots to start work. Within 18 months very few were still on the railway, the realities of the shift work were just too much for the majority. Only three stayed in the industry long term. Secondly, today's drivers are monitored perhaps more closely than any other comparative job, with the exception of airline pilots. The slightest infringement of rules or approved driving technique are picked up via on-train recorders, or during competency checks. In view of the responsibility drivers have these checks are perhaps these days to be expected, but nevertheless it puts huge additional pressure on individuals which is only really appreciated by fellow drivers. All that said, I spent 40 marvellous years driving all sorts of trains and at speeds from diesel shunters 15mph to Eurostar's 183mph. It's been a great career but at times hugely challenging too.

[@DadRail]

You are completely correct. Funnily enough I’ve got a video coming out tomorrow titled “10 things you need to know before becoming a train driver” it looks at shift work, social life and other elements of the job. Thanks for your comment really nice to hear from other people within the industry, it’s great that we can all share our experiences.

[@mancunioner]

Sounds easy compared to the minimum 60 hour shift patterns of the police that

[@DadRail]

@@mancunioner That's probably why there are a lot of ex police on the railway. Police are so undervalued and underpaid. for such a tough job you don't get even half the respect you deserve

[@bossMrMontana]

Try working hgvs then if you think that's bad.

[@DieselDucy]

I hope the train companies over there are better. Here in the USA they suck. I'm a train driver for a major company here and I would not recommend my worse enemy to take this job. Either way this is a great video though.

[@imyourhuckleberry357]

Out here in the States the railroads are begging for employees....They are even giving sign on bonuses...I am a Locomotive Engineer for BNSF Railway and have been an Engineer for 32 years.

[@Wf8cj]

Ive found people who can get me to work on railways hoping i get grade 4 english and maths and pass the interviews and trainings when im older 🤞🤞

[@ewoodrailway]

Companies add extra tests, the latest is fault finding then there's the enhanced element that baffles me.. I've failed testing twice, firstly lift chimes and phone book together then the 32 minute grey box all other tests passed to enhanced standard. Unsure if I get another go without going private?

[@azalphaskinhead659]

It’s not what you know, it’s WHO you know!

[@DadRail]

I’d have to disagree. It certainly helps if you know somebody on the inside, but it’s not a closed shop at all, at least not in the companies I have worked for.

[@joethetrainphotographerint8678]

Unfortunately I won't make a train driver and my dream was working for freight as it looks awesome to drive 66s and Gbrf 73s but hopefully I'll get a job on the railway not driving but how ever I remember you from Tonbridge and you the mountfield to Southampton a few month's ago

[@DadRail]

some freight shunters are permitted to drive in the yards. Maybe this is something you could look at?

[@joethetrainphotographerint8678]

@@DadRail yeah I was thinking that. Thanks

[@MitchDenham]

I'm not sure why I as a train driver am watching this, because I've had to go through all this somewhat recently 😂

[@DadRail]

So you can vouch for the accuracy of the information :-)

[@MitchDenham]

@@DadRail trying to think what I went through; Initial application. Online test "Psychometric" (English, Maths, reactions, pattern recognition) In-person Psychomotor test Group interview Panel interview Medical Job Offer Pretty sure that was everything. Over 18,000 people applied when I did, from what I've been told; Train Guard / Train Driver dual application. I'd say maybe 1% got a job.

[@sambarnes283]

Did you have previous railway experience mate?

[@neville132bbk]

@@DadRail Peer review 😃

[@MitchDenham]

@@sambarnes283 Nope. External applicant, hired to be a Train Guard, then offered a spot in the Driver’s school - My initial application was a dual application for Train Guard and Train Driver and I passed the requirements for both positions through the recruitment process.

[@WCML730]

I wanna work for Southern Railway, and im learning the routes :)

[@DadRail]

Good Luck, are you using train sim to learn the routes?

[@WCML730]

@@DadRail yep, i got Train Sim World 2, and the route East Coastway is helping me and soon the Brighton Mainline is coming out so that would help me, also in the game you can turn the hudd off and on, i can play with Hudd off and its amazing, im hoping they add more southern routes for me to learn :)

[@WCML730]

@@DadRail i also would like to get a PC to play Train Simulator and get all the Southern routes

[@DadRail]

@@WCML730 Just remember that the routes in the sims are not 100% accurate. It will give you a rough idea and help you with things like station names and junction locations ect. But if you go for a drivers job and say I know the route because I played train sim they will not normally look upon that as a positive thing. Its certainly not a bad thing, and as long as your enjoying it then you carry on.

[@WCML730]

@@DadRail im enjoying it, but sometimes i would like to go out and see the real route :) and it's helping out with The Stations

[@speedbird5409]

I'm a train technician Apprentice with Alstom - while I'm not a train driver we still get to drive them around the depot haha!

[@DadRail]

Still counts :-)

[@None.ur.business.]

How do we go about applying to the job? What’s the best way to apply? And why is competition hard in this industry when there’s such a major shortagest and they have even lowered the age from 20 to 18 because of that. And is it hard to get a trainee position?

[@collinskwaning9004]

Wow you really open my eyes on this point yeah I want to pursue this course. I want to become locomotives 🚂 engineer sir so I need more advice from you sir.

[@iknowyoureright8564]

I’m a signalman at present and going to the dark side….(driver) lol. Have my assessment centre tomorrow, most of the psychometric tests I’m good with, although the interview part I’m dreading as I’m hopeless at interviews. Fingers crossed it’s not to stressful….at least I’m in a good position, I already earn the same as drivers and the Working Hours aren’t too bad either. But I would like the challenge so I’ll give it my best, if I don’t get it then every drivers is getting yellows for a day or two when I go back into work. 😂

[@DadRail]

Hey how did you get on?

[@iknowyoureright8564]

@@DadRail hey, well I passed all the written and computer tests, I found them quite manageable, although I found the multi modal interview quite tough as i didn’t have long to prepare after giving my answers, and I’m not great at interviews as it is. But there was shortage of talking on my part so hopefully they got enough info from me, and at very least if I’m not successful then at least for 5 years my test results stand and I will only have the MMI to do again if I reapply. I should find out in 7-10 days, for now I shall carry on signalling. 😂 thanks for the reply. 🙏

[@Basset86Trains09]

Ok, with becoming a driver, and you apply and you get in to training, what are the tests like? is it like a GCSE retake sort of thing alongside the concentration tests etc. Or is it just your medical, concentration and simulators?

[@paulm2467]

Reaction test, trainability test, concentration test,mechanical knowledge test, comprehension test, situational awareness test, some companies have their own additional tests and some only accept ‘enhanced passes’, structured interview and managers interview, it’s tough. If you get through all of that you have a medical and drugs testing then around a year’s training, basic pts, some in the classroom, some learning traction in the yard and around 225/240 hours one on one with a DI.

[@sirenity8839]

Wow I thought the demand for train drivers is as high as in germany. But with so many applicants for one position i am driving trains in germany, but i d also like to do that abroad for a certain time.

[@james-smith8775]

Hi richard, i'm mad about trains and am a train spotter, for now the nearest i've been to train driving is at an open day at derby maintenance depot sat in the cab of my favourite train the hst 125, unless model rail counts, but i am thinking about what i want to do as my health gets sorted, i have struggled with heart failure issues but thanks to a recent operation i'm a lot better than I was. Anyway I'm thinking the only way I might get the chance to be a train driver is as a volunteer at a preservation railway, I know that I would still need to pass as a licence train driver to do so, but would I need the same level of training considering I would be looking to drive BR diesel engines which thanks to the Train Sim World game I was able to impress my Mum and others when at an open day at Crewe on the cab of a class 86 electric loco and in the cab of the APT I recognise and had full know-how of how to set the controls ready to drive the train and thats was when I decided I what to be a preservation railway engine driver. Any tips? 👍

[@Billythekid0716]

Hi mate, just recently found your series. I’m currently working in a corporate job as a senior QS, which I hate, and have recently started to consider train driving as a feasible “way out”. Looking at the video, I see the pros and cons of both passenger and freight. Do you know if it’s relatively easy to switch career paths between the two as the only vacancies I have found to date are for freight, which wouldn’t work for me in the long term with family commitments etc., but I do think I would enjoy. Any advice would be appreciated. Cheers, Billy

[@tonyallenby7508]

Hi Billy, Starting in freight in a door opener in my experience and is sought after by tocs, If you're still considering then freight is a great place to start. Skills are transferable. I have done both freight and passenger.

[@Billythekid0716]

@@tonyallenby7508 thanks for the feedback, Tony. Still on the look out but definitely considering the job change. I’ll keep an eye out for freight opportunities.

[@1mach28914u1]

Have you come across any Aussies working as train drivers in the UK? I'm a passenger train driver in Australia.

[@DadRail]

Yeah, there are a couple of Aussies that I know. We’ve also had a couple of drivers head to Australia to drive trains in the sun

[@navsaini-ke4du]

Hi its been a 9 months in England. I love railway jobs it doesnt matter its cleaning or train driving i just want to take advice from you sir ..please recommend me any position so i can search and put my years in it. BTW i love that people who checked tickets near barricades ..

[@motivated2connect]

Could use some advice for Australian railway industry Trainee to be 😊

[@DadRail]

Hey Congratulations. If I knew anything about Australian railways I’d happily share!

[@Anotherperson81]

How realistic is it to become a shunter driver first on the path to becoming a trainee train driver? How many years are you likely to spend shunting? Should you hold out for a trainee train driver position or take the shunter route?

[@DadRail]

I was a shunter driver prior to becoming a Mainline driver. It’s a very realistic career path and in my opinion a good one. The experience you gain as a shunter will provide you with a good foundation for moving into mainline driving. It’s hard to say how long you will need to spend shunting. It depends on what vacancies your company has and what there policy is on changing jobs. As a guess I would say between 1 and 5 years with an average of about 3. If you wait for a trainee drivers job then you will be up against a lot of competition. Applying as an internal applicant is always the best route.

[@testplmnb]

Sadly, no british company wanted to talk with me when I have applied for the role of a train driver, even though I already have both experience and education since at the time I had 5 years of experience as a metro driver (Warsaw Metro - Poland). NVQ nostrified documents didn't help at all aswell.

[@DadRail]

I am surprised to hear that. I would have thought your experience would have been desirable by train companies.

[@testplmnb]

@@DadRail Perhaps it would, but I can also understand the fact that railway is strategic industry and allowing foreigners could have been a bad idea especially if you take into consideration the idea of mayhem caused by Brexit.

[@Algorithm347]

How does height become a health factor ? There’s nothing that you can do about it

[@DadRail]

I know there use to be a minimum and maximum height but I don’t think there is now. Height and weight is measured more for the purpose of calculating BMI. Although I was told at my last medical as long as you have good mobility BMI doesn’t really matter

[@Algorithm347]

@@DadRail good , height to weight calculations is useless, as I’m only 5’10” and weight 14 stone but I go gym so I’m far from fat , but my doctor said to me technically I’m overweight, but he even said he could see I was in good health .

[@HarpreetSingh-cd5be]

Hi sir I really like your video. I want to ask as i m international student of bsc buss management can i able to perform this job ??

[@galaxycoder]

Railway politics (which you will get drawn into as a driver) can end your career before it has a chance to get very far. Few if any MD's of TOC's have ever been drivers. Experienced Drivers can make very successful management because they usually have knowledge and experience of many practical operational areas of the industry. TOC management are often university graduates who haven't got a clue. You cannot understand how to run a railway from a book. Many Drivers have clashed with senior management, usually to their detriment. Driving trains pays well, but it's bloody boring.

[@DadRail]

This is so very True - Although on the FOC side it seems to be different

[@REGManre]

I passed all my tests and interview and was awaiting depot managers interview 2 years ago but the job application was stopped by the FOC. Ive applied to many TOC's but fall short on the customer services questionnaire. Any tips to pass this?

[@N_O_R_R_I_E]

As I 'might' have my chance of a freight driver position in 2022 can I'm curious to know when driving into direct sunlight or extreme fog....are there any measures to help drivers from missing signals ? also do you have any methods to keep alert as I'm sure there are many times you might be feeling 'noddy donkey' :-D

[@DadRail]

Good questions Andy. You have sun blinds in the cab that can help, and the Audible AWS warning that can indicate if I signal is green or adverse. Love the term noddy donkey :-) research non technical skills and use the information at your interview. Railway companies love NTS. Things like commentary driving, and managing your lifestyle correctly all help with combatting fatigue.

[@TheMisterB2u]

@@DadRail Lots of aids to help in fog,but when you think you know a road like the back of your hand,fog will prove you probably don't! Fortunately these days thick fog is not so common!

[@patrickduignan7701]

Had interview and tests , but even though the money is good , my social life is more important so swerved it .. earn a bit less but great hrs and have my weekends free

[@DadRail]

You are not wrong. It’s not a job it is a way of life and it does totally mess up your family and social life. That is one of the reasons it’s a well paid job

[@clairecalder6530]

Your website doesn’t work anymore, “account suspended”

[@AussieGunzel]

I would be a train driver but I don’t want to hit anyone.

[@jasperherridge3168]

Do you know anything about driving steam locos on heritage lines? As in do you need to already be trained as a mainline driver before driving on a heritage line. I'd love to be able to do that in my spare time, however I'm more interested in different full time jobs than being a train driver. Great video as always!

[@DadRail]

Hi Jasper, No you dont need to be a mainline driver to drive on heritage lines. Get in contact with your chosen line and ask what the process is. Many will require you to work through the grades to become a driver. This can take many years but will be worth it.

[@jasperherridge3168]

@@DadRail brilliant, thanks for the help

[@lfs19848]

I sat the exams with a TOC about 4 years ago, passed them all except the easiest one , the black square. 🤦‍♂️ Do you know if I reapply with another TOC whether them results will still be on file or will I have to resit them all?

[@DadRail]

I think you will have to do them all again unfortunately

[@streetsiswatching9660]

They usually only stay valid for 2 years unfortunately

[@Jake-vo1cj]

Hey dad rail, can still get the job of being a train driver by just getting maths and English because it says online that I just need maths and English?. Or can I get maths, English,art and business studies to be a train driver.

[@DadRail]

I think you need at least maths and English, but the more you have the better. You may decide in the future the railway isn’t for you and having those additional qualifications will help to open doors for you

[@Jake-vo1cj]

@@DadRail ok. Umm also which English. English language or English literature or both. Because English has separate GCESE grades for literature and language?

[@DadRail]

@@Jake-vo1cj I’m not sure to be honest with you, I’ll see if I can find out for sure, but at a guess I’d say English Language.

[@williamjlphotography]

Pointless in trying to get a trainee train driver job now days. Why? You have to answer online questions. These are customer service role questions. So you saying about the assessment day and that they see the person, not the grades, isn't strictly true (this is my experience with applying to Southeastern). I've spoken to Southeastern previously and they say these are standard questions (even for roles that don't deal with any customers, ever).

[@DadRail]

I think the online questions are part of the screening process now. Train driving is all about customer service. Consider a DOO service, you are the only member of staff on the train. when things go wrong passengers will be looking to you for help. Have you had a go at the questions yourself?

[@mdmahfuzulislammamun6030]

Hello sir, I Have Gcse equivalent qualification. May i Become train driver? If so how i should proceed? From Where i will get training?

[@DadRail]

Training is done by the train company once you have been accepted as a trainee driver. You need to check the company websites to look for job vacancies

[@amsasela6595]

your website not working

[@DadRail]

It’s a WIP. Try www.dadrail.co

[@greatportlandstreetmodelra6513]

8:25 I ´m a trainee train driver in Germany. The German and british railway infrastructure is pretty similar. While the tube or other closed railway systems are already automated. Its nearly impossible to automize the whole network. In Germany, we partly run on 1950s infrastructure, that means semaphore signals and signal boxes. Not even all lines are electric, so it will take ages to upgrade all the lines. In my opinion, the next generation, 2040+ will struggle getting jobs as train drivers, but I think new trainees, should not worry too much.

[@DadRail]

We have a lot of testing going on at the moment in the uk with ATO systems, and whilst partial role out maybe possible in places a network wide system is maybe 50 years away

[@paulgarvey7992]

A Lucas card helps

[@patricia_8888]

07:04 - Caledonian Sleeper - does NOT recruit train drivers!

[@DadRail]

Correct, but you will notice the loco is in GBRf colours

[@djosh1341]

Hii, I'm from India, working as Loco Pilot ( train driver) past 8yrs, can I apply for UK railways , if yes then how's the process, criteria etc...?

[@DadRail]

I think you can apply but it depends if you can get a visa

[@djosh1341]

@@DadRail can u help me out how is the procedure , & even the required educational qualification?

[@DadRail]

@@djosh1341 you need to have GCSE or equivalent qualifications in Maths and English. All the training is provided by the train company. When you apply you will be invited to sit a series of tests to check your ability to become a train driver. These include tests on concentration, situational awareness, Psycometric, reaction speed and others. If you pass all the tests you will be invited for an interview and a medical. When you have passed all that your train driver training will start.

[@DadRail]

@@djosh1341 you need to have GCSE or equivalent qualifications in Maths and English. All the training is provided by the train company. When you apply you will be invited to sit a series of tests to check your ability to become a train driver. These include tests on concentration, situational awareness, Psycometric, reaction speed and others. If you pass all the tests you will be invited for an interview and a medical. When you have passed all that your train driver training will start.

[@djosh1341]

@@DadRail thank you so much for the information

[@alansbinnie1446]

Must just about be the World's simplest job. Bus Drivers get paid far, far less for a much harder job.

[@DadRail]

I agree that Bus Drivers deserve a pay rise as do many other jobs. Too many companies that could pay their workers more but instead choose to put profits first and let the state top up peoples wages through Universal Credits.

[@jamesmoor3272]

Is it possible to carry out a degree at uni and at the same time have a part-time job with a rail company in the ambition of becoming a train driver once graduated?

[@DadRail]

If you can find a part time role on the railway that works around uni, then I don't see why not.

[@paulm2467]

The driver training is full time, it usually takes between 9 months and a year, you could look for part time jobs and then apply for a driving job after uni. Your degree won’t be much use as a driver and once you start it’s virtually impossible to leave as the money is so good, even if you are ambitious and go for management grades your degree won’t make that much difference as your record is much more important.

[@midhunkadavath2853]

Recruits from other countries will accepted?

[@DadRail]

Yes if you have the right visas and your English is to a good standard.

[@nithingopalakrishnan8737]

Hi.. Just watched the video... Having few doubts. Iam an international student at uk holding T4 visa.. Can i apply for a train driver job.?

[@thusitharathnayake8340]

Hi, i am a train driver in Sri Lanka.can I be a train driver in uk.

[@DadRail]

You would need the relevant visas and permits and would need to learn the rules of our railways, but there is nothing to stop you.

[@883mondo]

Puppy telling people how to be a train driver LMFAO,... when you know whats under the sole bar or what s hook switch pole is I will listen to you.... this is so funny

[@DadRail]

What makes you think that I don't know what a hook switch pole is, or what is under the sole bar of my locomotive? Boil in the bag passenger drivers may not have that knowledge, but as a freight driver, who has worked through the grades and is competent on locos such as the class 73, being familiar with what's under the sole bar, and carrying out procedures such as dropping the buckeye, manual coupling, paddling up etc are all parts of the Job. I have used hook switch poles to take isolations before, and applied short circuiting bars and straps. What makes you think that I wouldn't know that stuff? I have a massive amount of respect for some of the dinosaurs on the job most of them have forgotten more than I will ever know and I owe a lot of my knowledge to them old boys. Im 15 years in and still the boy on the job. Knowing your place on the railway is very important and respect is earnt.

[@rol1517]

I believe these companies are gone woke now and its difficult if you're pale.

[@OlSkunGun]

I'm looking at perspective of becoming a train driver though steel prison bars. I'm failing color vision tests, well I was born so there's nothing I can do. Plus I'm a fan of recreational or medical cannabis which hard headed corporate rats label me as junkie. It doesn't matter that cannabis is more safe than alcohol. It's illegal. But all that Mumbo Jumbo war on drugs is ending.

[@bossMrMontana]

It's drug that messes with your brain I'm sorry to tell you that but I wouldn't trust a weed smoker to operate a train I'm on and I'm happy the industry sees it that way too.

[@OlSkunGun]

@@bossMrMontana Indoctrinated mofos like you beat pot smokers in the head so that you theory "it's drugs that messes with your brain" will be vaild.

[@bobbill6017]

How to become a trai driver? Nepotism.

[@DadRail]

Maybe Years ago. I had no family or friends on the railway when I applied.

[@markwaters9914]

Hi, and thanks for a great video. I applied in 2020 and did all the assessments, which I passed! (I will be passing out in 8 weeks!) I can confirm they are quite intense tests, and the assessors were poker faced and didn't give anything away at the time. I left the assessments thinking I did awful, but I was wrong. The classroom side of it is a LOT of headwork and homework, and when you finish the classroom part and get out driving with an instructor, you don't just finish work and switch off, go home, read rules, make notes, get prepared for the next day and then go to bed. Expect to pretty much cancel your social life for the next year! It will be so worth it in the end though. Its not a criticism, just advising to anyone that is interested the reality of dedication needed to succeed. I'm 48, I wish I started this many years ago. Thanks again for the videos!

[@catherinemulumba4046]

Thx for that heads up!

[@simmon81au]

Just signed up for a traineeship in Australia

[@richardjones8546]

Hi Mark, great advice cheers, how’s it going 3 or so months down the line now ? Only just started researching getting this so I’m just trying to get an idea of how long it takes ect, I’m 45 so a similar age to you. Cheers

[@inas2711]

Hi , thanks for the helpful information . Please I need more information on how to apply for a train driver position from outside the UK … also the cost , how long it will take and the requirements. Thanks

[@zjlian9242]

@@simmon81au hello, can i get your email or twitter ? i also wanna be a trainee in Australia.thank you !

[@tcc300892]

Thanks very much for the information! I'm currently waiting to be allocated a date for psychometric testing - getting increasingly nervous to be honest... It sounds like a dream for someone like me who thrives on a bit of solitude.

[@1mach28914u1]

Good luck with your psychometric testing. I'm a passenger train driver in NSW, Australia. The dreaded hoops the rail industries get you to jump through. 🤦‍♂️😩

[@tcc300892]

@@1mach28914u1 Thank you! Fingers crossed. You must have some beautiful scenery out there.

[@DadRail]

Good luck with it, Drop me a message on my socials and let me know how you got on.

[@ggarnet6440]

Yeah, good luck with the psy test. Keep us posted on the outcome. If they still do the reaction test, when you get behind with the colours, and you will. Stop. Let a couple go by and then compose and restart. Don’t try to keep up. It is a dream job for solitude. I’m a solo person and it’s great. 😁

[@ademolarahaman4283]

Hello sir Am an motor vehicle mechanic And am willing to become a train driver Can it be possible for me to switch to train drivers??? Message from Nigeria.

[@timosha21]

I'm a train and I approve this informative video!

[@joinmeonthedarkside2]

I passed my psychometrics testing and both interviews earlier this year. Got medical soon and a start date towards the end of the year. 22+ years in light rail And 4 years as guard to back to my application helped Certainly getting in anyway you can will help . Be good to see a psychometrics video Granted not all are the same but overall they're very similar and the info I found certainly helped prep me for the days testing. Great video

[@Samsungphone2]

How are you finding it? And what is the starting salary. Thinking of a change.

[@joinmeonthedarkside2]

@Samsung starting is about 24k But I'm ex guard so retain my 29k for first 12 months until it rises It isn't alien to me I've spent 26 years in light then heavy rail in some capacity so things are very familiar . There's a lot of knowledge and rules retention that's for sure.

[@zaink7037]

Nice one. Just got my contract for a trainee mainline driver role. Still hasn't hit me yet I got the job. Just waiting now for my start date in just over a month. My background is in healthcare so quite a change but goes to show they will take anyone on if you show them you have the right attributes and experience when they ask competency questions in the interview when you get to that stage

[@joinmeonthedarkside2]

@zaink7037 been passed out since late last year all routes signed out on own for last few months First Yr rules in few months Good luck lots work ahead

[@notmenotme614]

5:00 I disagree with this, not just for train driving jobs but for working in any industry. As theres no guarantees and you’ll will end stuck in a job you didn’t want and hate. For example, being sold the recruiters lie that if you become an infantry soldier first, you can later apply to be an Apache attack helicopter pilot.

[@datboidvon]

I’m interested in becoming a train driver, I’ve always thought about it but never really thought it would pay off. This has been the most in depth video, all my questions were answered thanks so much for this it help out me 1 step closer. Amazing.

[@DadRail]

Hi Dvon, thanks so much for your comment! Good luck with it all.

[@johnward374]

Wow! What difference from my experience back in 1961 when I was 14. I went to see this guy in an office in Hull for a job as an steam engine cleaner, the start on the ladder to an engine driver. He asked for my school report & leaving certificate of which I had neither. He then said I don't know you and you don't know me so tell me why I should give you a job. I said my dad works on the railway, he said that will do for me, medical next week then start soon as your 15. I stayed on the footplate for 46 years as a fireman then driver on all types of traction including HSTs/91s. THANKS DAD.

[@DadRail]

There are a lot of families on the railway even now. I am the opposite to you, I started and then my family members followed including my dad!

[@calvinsmithkhayat758]

Love hearing about hull! I have a trainee driver interview tomorrow. Wish me luck!

[@calvinsmithkhayat758]

Love hearing about hull! I have a trainee driver interview tomorrow. Wish me luck!

[@sweety1009]

@@calvinsmithkhayat758 How did it go? 🙂

[@calvinsmithkhayat758]

@@sweety1009 I didn’t get it. I was super prepared but I melted in the seat… couldn’t string a sentence together. Nerves got the best of me. Oh well, it’s all experience!

[@michaelpreston2119]

I work as an engineer for GWR and also went for a driver job. I passed all of the relevant tests but unfortunately failed the final interview. I shall definitely apply again once jobs are advertised,hopefully soon. Great video, thanks.

[@DadRail]

No worries. Stick at it and try again.

[@elthamlad468]

I failed an interview with GWR. Of all the interviews I've had in my life, and that's a lot, GWR was the toughest. Three people, two hours. Keep applying, don't give up. I am now training with a freight company and love it. Best thing I've ever done.

[@paulm2467]

If you only failed the company interview you can use your assessment results to apply for another company.

[@jonlannister345]

Three generations of my grandfathers were railway men. My insurance salesman father always viewed railway men as 'plebs' 'scrubbers' and 'far right' though, so it was beaten out of me as a kid to want to become a train driver myself. The urge is returning though after spending my entire 20s scraping out a basic survival from the ruins of Britain.

[@tomtom2871]

Can you become a train driver with ADHD ?

[@DadRail]

Absolutely you can. ADHD and ASD are no barrier. It may be more challenging to pass all the assessments than somebody who is neurotypical, but it can be done. People with ADHD and ASD make very good train drivers in my experience.

[@andromedaaa7]

My dad was a 2nd man on numerous freight locos like Class 66’s and 73’s back in the 80’s and he loved it! He had to quit though which was a shame.

[@maksttttttrrrrrrr6520]

Hello, can I get trained as a train driver and then get a job? I am from Ukraine, I want to move to the UK soon, I graduated from the Ukrainian University of Railway Transport with a degree in repair and maintenance of rolling stock.

[@azadi_ke_deewane]

Hi sir , i am train driver in india,can i become train driver in uk and other European countries.

[@MrNg50]

How it's changed. Father was a steam engine driver and I went onto the railways in the seventies. As a secondman worked with the old steam engine drivers and former fireman who were now drivers and carried on the tradition. Some of those drivers were so in so but looking back they were gentlemen. It was great. Of course the hours were bad but the pay was good. You made a mistake and the inspector would say '' tell me the truth and we'll sort it'' so you did as they worked through the ranks. 1982, and the ASLEF flexible rosters strike seem to change it all. There was a station master nicknamed ' Snuff' cause he got right up our noses. Then came the university students. I remember being at Eastleigh when it came through they were ' off the road at Botley'. The Area Manager who came from British Gas said '' what does that mean'' ? To think when I joined they couldn't recruit the staff to today where the job is the most sought after. So with all things modernisation and technology but that cannot over ride the characters , memory's and banter. Yes, I am an old BR man but a proud one.

[@TheMisterB2u]

Money much better than when I started.We all worked(Southern) 13 days out of 14 just to pay the mortgage! Different now as less camaraderie, messroom banter limited,as all on tablets, mobile phones and headphones.A lot of staff make no effort to integrate with the older experienced colleagues.Times change and there's always positives and negatives I guess!

[@MrNg50]

@@TheMisterB2u Thank you for your reply and an insight into today's railway. Glad I worked in the era that I did. I started in the seventies and as you know it was after the Clapham train crash that the Hidden report was brought in. Sadly, I knew the drivers and one of the guards of that incident. True things move on but I wouldn't swap my memories. Oh those night shifts relieving a Saltley man and on a cold winter nights on a class 47 with a blanket around your legs and the tea heater on.

[@orsoncarte8536]

Likewise

[@theeuropevibes2929]

Which study should I study in Australia I become a driver I am from India

[@Red-tm1bs]

Best advice I can give to anyone is to make sure that your initial application is the best it can possibly be! I know that sounds almost obvious but you'd be surprised how many people try to wing it. Unfortunately that won't work, an application for a driver role requires a lot of effort and small things such as a spelling mistake or the misreading of a question make massive differences. Also, do plenty of research on the role, so many people see the pound signs combined with the "romantic part of the story" where the driver pulls into the platform looking like he/she is doing very little and think it's an absolute breeze.......that couldn't be further from the truth. If you like a lie in, I'd reconsider. If you like your weekends, I'd reconsider. If you like drinking heavily, I'd reconsider. If you don't like missing family functions such as birthdays and weddings, I'd reconsider. If you don't like dealing with the public, I'd reconsider as the nature of the work dictates all of these would be difficult or a real possibility (missing family function) Long story short it's not a walk in the park and it's not just pulling leavers like some seem to think, you have to make sacrifices. HOWEVER It's still the best job in the world! The skills you learn, the people you meet, the opportunities to push on within the industry make all those sacrifices worth it if you're strong enough! Just please please please don't just think about the money! You have to work for it and everything including money has a novelty factor and novelty factors generally wear off. Best of luck to all that go for it.

[@flickz5800]

cheers for the advice lad

[@samfuller1867]

Hi richard, really enjoying these vids and looking forward to future content. I'm looking to change careers from a bricklayer to passenger train driver hence my interest, in the medical examination do both eyes get tested together or separately?

[@DadRail]

Hi Sam, glad your enjoying the content. This is from the current standards document: "Visual acuity must be at least 1.0 (6/6 Snellen) with both eyes open and 0.5 (6/12 Snellen) in the weaker eye when the eyes are tested individually. Testing performed with permitted correction if worn."