Bus or coach driver

Career path and progression

With experience, you could become a service scheduler, inspector, depot manager or driver training instructor.

You could also set up your own business. For this you'll need the Transport Manager Certificate of Professional Confidence (CPC). This can be done through a local training provider.

What it takes

Skills and knowledge

You'll need:

• customer service skills
• knowledge of public safety and security
• to be thorough and pay attention to detail
• patience and the ability to remain calm in stressful situations
• knowledge of transport methods, costs and benefits
• the ability to work well with others
• the ability to organise your time and workload
• the ability to operate and control equipment
• to be able to carry out basic tasks on a computer or hand-held device

Restrictions and Requirements

You'll need to:

• have a Certificate of Professional Competence (CPC) known as a driver CPC
• be over 18 years of age
• have a full driving licence

Every 5 years you'll need to:

• take 35 hours of Driver CPC training
• renew your bus driving licence if you're aged 45 or over

Find out more about applying for your provisional PCV licence.

Related subjects

Most relevant

• Geography - Bus and coach drivers need a strong understanding of routes, road networks, and local areas to navigate efficiently and give passengers accurate directions. Coach drivers working on longer journeys or overseas trips also benefit from knowledge of different regions, border crossings, and how to read maps.
• Mathematics - Bus and coach drivers handle fares, give change, and keep track of ticket sales throughout their shifts. They also need to calculate journey times, manage fuel consumption, and record driving hours accurately to stay within legal limits.

Also relevant

• English Language - Bus and coach drivers communicate with passengers constantly – giving route information, making announcements, and helping people who need assistance. Clear spoken communication is especially important when dealing with confused or distressed passengers, or when reporting incidents.
• Modern Foreign Languages - Coach drivers who work on overseas trips or tourist routes often interact with passengers and border control authorities who speak other languages. Being able to communicate in another language is a real advantage when dealing with travel documents and navigating in other countries.
• Business - Bus and coach drivers who want to progress can set up their own transport business or move into depot management. Understanding how to manage finances, plan operations, and handle customers is valuable for those looking to run their own company or take on a leadership role.
• Design and Technology - Bus and coach drivers carry out basic vehicle checks and need to understand how their vehicle works mechanically. Familiarity with how systems like brakes, engines, and doors function helps them spot faults early and keep passengers safe.
• Psychology - Bus and coach drivers deal with a wide range of passengers every day and need patience, empathy, and the ability to stay calm under pressure. Understanding human behaviour helps when managing difficult situations, supporting vulnerable passengers, or defusing conflicts on board.