Hi there. What are the steps for me to persue a career as a train driver for GWR? How do I apply for the license?
Additional information
I’m a 49yr old male so will be an Adult learner looking at a career change. Im at the right age now with 2 grown up children so plenty of free time to learn. I’m keen to get the licence and begin on a new exciting career. All information will be most appreciated with the next steps for me. Thanks
Luke J. asked a question to Paul S.
Category: Application Advice
Date asked: Wednesday, June 4, 2025
Last reviewed: Wednesday, June 4, 2025
Alex S.
Application Support – HR and Recruitment
Hi Luke,
That's great to hear you're keen in pursuing a new career as a Train Driver.
There is no licence to apply for, it's just a case of applying for a Trainee Train Driver position and then should you successfully make it through each of the recruitment stages and are offered a role, you would be placed on a training course. You've already confirmed that you meet the minimum age requirement and the only other minimum requirements are:
- You'll need to live within 60 minutes travel time to the depot, without using public transport when it is not available. The safety responsibilities make this requirement a necessity.
- You will be needed to work shifts of varying start times, including weekends and nights.
- You'll need to pass a full driver medical which includes hearing, sight, and colour vision tests (using the Ishihara plates).
All of GWR's current Train Driver vacancies can be found here. Unfortunately, there aren't currently any trainee adverts open, however when there are, these will appear on this same page.
Should you also be interested in any Trainee Train Driver opportunities with Avanti West Coast, you can find more information here.
Wednesday, June 4, 2025