Minimum age to be a train driver lowered to 18
Summary
In the UK, the minimum age to become a train driver has been lowered from 20 to 18 to address a shortage of drivers. This change aims to fill positions as many drivers approach retirement, offering young people more job opportunities.Key Facts
- The UK lowered the minimum age for train drivers from 20 to 18.
- This change aims to address driver shortages affecting train services.
- The average age of UK train drivers is 48, with 30% expected to retire by 2029.
- Training to become a train driver takes one to two years.
- The Department for Transport reported that driver shortages caused 87% of short-notice train cancellations.
- Fewer than 9% of train drivers are female, and under 12% are from an ethnic minority.
- The new age policy had strong support from the transport industry.
- Apprenticeships for 18-year-olds could start as soon as December.
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