Train Driver Apprenticeships
Can You Become a Train Driver Through an Apprenticeship?
Move with the times and complete a train driver apprenticeship.
The railway is one of the fastest and most convenient methods of transport. Although modern railways depend a lot on technology and automation, they’re not totally run by robots – people still play a vital role in keeping Britain moving.
A train driver apprenticeship could help you kick your transport career into first gear. .
Search Train Driver Apprenticeships
The Basics
If you’re interested in becoming a train driver, apprenticeships offer a fantastic pathway into this rewarding career. While there are a few sought-after train driver apprenticeships out there, you can also find many related opportunities in this field, especially engineering.
After qualifying with a train driver apprenticeship, you’ll obviously need to be on-site if you’re steerin’ the train. Similarly, infrastructure development and technician roles will require you to attend sites, so a bit of travel may be required.
There’s another thing to take into consideration: health and safety are core requirements in the transport industry. Whether it’s testing equipment or replacing cables, every task has to go through rigorous health and safety compliance – it’s definitely worth researching this before you apply for a train driver apprenticeship so you are prepared for interviews.
It is also important to note the the minimum age to apply for any train driving jobs is currently 20 years old. you’ll also need to pass a medical examination that involves eyesight, hearing and colour vision tests – this is part of a guideline set out by Train Drivers Academy, a body of the Rail Delivery Group.
Where to find train driver apprenticeships
East Midlands Railway – Level 3 Train Driver
East Midlands Railway offers a comprehensive Level 3 Train Driver Apprenticeship designed to equip individuals with the knowledge and practical skills necessary to succeed in one of the most critical roles in the railway industry. This 12-month program combines classroom-based theory with hands-on training, providing a well-rounded learning experience. Apprentices have access to advanced facilities, including a state-of-the-art Training Academy, Virtual Reality (VR) simulations for real-life scenario practice, and a cab simulator that allows trainees to experience diverse driving conditions safely.
Northern Railway – Trainee Train Driver
Northern’s Trainee Train Driver Apprenticeship is a rigorous program for individuals with focus, adaptability, and a willingness to learn. Trainees undergo an intensive three-month training covering safety, operations, driver responsibilities, and customer service skills. Strong numeracy and literacy are essential, with GCSE grade C or above in Maths and English (or equivalent) required, or functional skills tests to achieve Level 2 qualifications.
Applicants must live within 45 minutes of their workplace, and be flexible for shifts, including weekends and holidays. The selection process includes an interview, psychometric assessments, and a safety-critical medical. With industry-standard training and development, this apprenticeship offers a strong foundation for a rewarding career in rail.
GTR- Train Driver Apprenticeship
The 18-month Train Driver programme teaches the rules, regulations and procedures needed to operate trains safely and punctually, while also giving apprentices necessary train driving experience. Successful completion of the Train Driver apprenticeship results in a train driving license, a level 3 train driver qualification and a guaranteed train driver position.
London Northwestern Railway – Train Driver Apprenticeship
As a Train Driver Apprentice, you will be responsible for the safe and prompt transport of customers to their various destinations. As an apprentice, you will be trained in many areas, including driving and maintaining our trains/rail network and be taught how to work in a range of railway areas, such as depots, sidings or maintenance sheds.
This apprenticeship is a fantastic way to get stuck into many different areas of work in the rail industry, as many of the skills are transferable meaning it could lead to jobs in senior management (operations), or a career training others how to drive trains.
London Northeaster Railway (LNER) – Level 3 Train Driver
LNER’s Level 3 Train Driver Apprenticeship is a structured 13-month program (plus 3 months for End Point Assessment) designed to train the next generation of skilled train drivers. Applicants must hold GCSE grades 9-4/A*-C (or equivalent) in Maths and English. An ICT Level 2 qualification is also required, which can be achieved during the program if not already held.
The program includes 15 weeks of classroom training, 260 hours of on-board mentoring, and regular 12-weekly progress reviews with trainers. Upon qualification, apprentices can progress to roles such as Driver Mentor, Driver Trainer, or Driver Team Manager.
Transpennine Express – Train Driver Training Programme
TransPennine Express offers a rewarding opportunity to begin a career as a train driver through their Trainee Train Driver Apprenticeship. This program is designed for individuals with no prior train driving experience but with strong customer focus, high levels of concentration, and the ability to think on their feet.
Trainees undertake the Level 3 Train Driver qualification through an intensive 9–12 month training program that combines classroom learning and hands-on experience on trains, sometimes requiring time away from home. Applicants must be over 21, live within an hour of the depot, and pass a medical examination, including eyesight, hearing, and color vision tests.
Other roles in rail/transport to check out
Network Rail’s Level 3 Railway Engineering Apprenticeship pays £19,838 and lasts for three years. There’s only one intake of students each year in November, so keep your eye on the ball!
Visit Company ProfileLevel 3 Rail Engineering Technician ApprenticeshipIf you want to set your sights on something longer-term, you could look at Transport for London’s advanced, higher and degree-level apprenticeships. You could earn a full degree while building experience in one of the transport industry’s most iconic companies.
Visit Company ProfileTFL Apprenticeship RolesGWR has apprenticeship opportunities to suit various learners depending on your short- and long-term career goals. For example, you can complete the Level 2 qualification in as little as 18 months or pursue a four-year degree apprenticeship.
GWR Apprenticeships (Register your interest)Fancy working behind the scenes rather than in the box? Colas Rail offers a whole host of Level 3 apprenticeships focused on infrastructure and technology innovation roles.
Entry requirements?
Most train driver and railway apprenticeships require at least a Level 4 in your English and maths GCSEs. Some apprenticeships (like the ones offered by Network Rail) may also expect at least Level 4 in science and one other subject, too. Keep in mind that some opportunities, especially for train drivers, only accept applications from people aged 20 and over.
However, don’t feel disheartened – you don’t need to wait until you’re 20 to kickstart your career in the transport sector. You can always complete further education like A Levels or undertake a different course and transition to being a train driver when you’re old enough.
Apprenticeships by Levels
Level 2 (intermediate) – equivalent to 5 GCSEs (at grades 9 to 4)
- Customer Service Apprenticeship – GWR
Level 3 (advanced) – equivalent to 2 A-levels
- Train Driver Apprenticeship – gov.uk
- Train Driver Apprenticeship – East Midlands Railway
- Rail Engineering Technician Apprenticeship – Colas Rail
- Rail Engineering Technician Signalling – Colas Rail
- Rail Engineering Technician Apprenticeship – Network Rail
- Rail Infrastructure Operations Apprenticeship – Network Rail
Levels 4 and 5 (higher) – equivalent to a foundation degree
- Transport Operations Manager Apprenticeship – Cross Country
- Management Development Apprenticeship – Cross Country
Levels 6 and 7 (degree) – you’ll get a full bachelor’s and/or master’s degree. Yep, that’s right: with some high-level apprenticeships you can achieve a full degree at the end, without going to university.
- Land Surveying Degree Apprenticeship – TfL
- Railway Engineering Degree Apprenticeship – GWR
- Engineering Apprenticeship (Scotland) – Network Rail
The Latest Transport Apprenticeships & Work Experience:
-
Senior Conductor Apprenticeship
EMRNottingham -
Airbus apprenticeships (Register for 2026)
AirbusStevenage, Portsmouth, Newport, Guildford, Newcastle, Bristol, Chester -
BMW Apprenticeships 2025 (Register Interest)
BMWUK -
Apprenticeships at Jaguar Land Rover (JLR)
Jaguar Land Rover (JLR)UK -
Transport for London (TfL) Apprenticeships
Transport for London (TfL)UK -
Network Rail Apprenticeships
Network RailUK
Can’t find what you’re looking for? Search all jobs.
Sector Spotlight
In our world, which is increasingly focused on sustainability, the railway industry is striving to make transportation more environmentally friendly. It’s the perfect career if you’re also passionate about putting the planet first. For example, many big railway firms work closely with research, development and scientific teams to enhance their infrastructure development projects in a way that won’t negatively impact the environment.
Feeling convinced that a career as a train driver is right for you? Take a look at more information on how to get a railway apprenticeship.
