How do i become a train driver?

Question

How do i become a train driver?

Answer 1

If you're in the UK, then you have to apply to a Train Operating Company.  Fill in the application they send.  If they like what they read, then they will invite you to take some tests to see if you have the relevant skills for training.  The tests involve memory, concentration, mechanical know-how and reaction. The reaction tests are in front of a computer screen and you have to press the correct buttons which correspond with certain sounds within a very short time.  Similar to a game of 'Bop-it' !!

If you are successful, then you may be invited back for a formal structured interview which is designed to see if you have the correct qualities for the job.

Again if successful, you would be sent for a medical which is the same as the one airline pilots have to undergo and is very strict.  Eyesight is tested, as is hearing, balance, heart and overall health.  A drink and drugs test also takes place.  As for eyesight, you do indeed need 20/20 vision, but this can be with the aid of glasses.

If successful, then you would probably be offered the job and then you can look forward to a year plus of intensive training.  It's hard work, but worth it at the end.

Good luck!!  

Oh, BTW, be patient with the TOCs as they are all notoriously slow in corresponding with the job application process.  Some people wait for months or even years to get the opportunity to join as a trainee train driver.  Finally, don't bother unless you're over 21 as this is the minimum age...

Answer 2

depens on a few things first of all what kinda train you want to drive second where u live. If you live in the Us you could to go Union Pacific's web site for freight @ www.uprr.com and see if they have any openings and what the requirements are for a freight train driver. for passenger trains in the US i think Amtrak is yout best bet.

Answer 3

Look on the web for the various train operating companies sites , log on and see what requirements and vacancies are available and take it from there.

If you are selected for interview you will be sent for testing and if you pass that you will then start a 26 week basic training course.

Be warned the competition is very very strong for the limited places available at any one time.

Answer 4

First inquire to train engineer how they become a train engineer, then follow it up to dep't. of transportation who regulate the transportation industry, ask them if there is some requirements needed or if there is a law on how to become a train operator. What i know is that when they buy anew train usually somebody from company who bought & operate the train choose among their employees (usually who works directly in train like mechanics, an egineer, maintenance man etc.) to be trained by the vendor on how to operate the machine.

Answer 5

well, apply to the relevent TOC (Train Operating Company), then, they take you to their main headquaters, give you a written exam, test your eye sight *has to be 2020 vison* once you complete this, they take you to a simuator of your engine and get you to start learning your route, you have to know your route view by view, sound by sound you have to know exactly where you are. for instants, in fog, you have to know where the next signal is, just incase it is red.

Then! once you have completed this, another written exam.

Then you take your engine out for real on your route ... but as empty coaching stock and have an instructer with you.. this lasts for about a month then an examiner comes on board without your knowing. then ... and only then you pass his or her requirements, you get your route card signed to say you are a qualified driver on that route only ... if you want another route, start your training all over again.

Oh and to you Americans, in England it isnt Engineer it is, as the questioner states "Train Driver" I thank you

Answer 6

!st of all you need to have passed GCSE's in Maths & English.

2nd apply on line IF the train Operating Companies are advertising the role of trainee train driver.

If you get past this stage, you will then have to sit some assessments & the interviews.

Try the following TOC's (Train Operating Companies):

http://www.virgintrains.co.uk/default.as...

http://www.gnerrecruitment.com/

http://www.southeasternrailway.co.uk/mai...

By the way this question was asked 4 times over the last couple of week so it may be worth you looking at the resolved questions

Answer 7

typically, a person  has to work their way up the chain of command. starting with the grunt work. you can then go from track work to coupling and uncoupling the trains. from then you can take some tests and you are an engineer which is on call 24 hours per day 7 days per week.  typically working 12-16 hour shifts

Answer 8

The word commonly used is "engineer," not "train driver." I would think that using this word would be the best start.

Answer 9

i work 4 csx ... they dont hire engineers off the street , u have to start as a conductor and then they send u to engine school after a few years.. at least at csx.. dunno about the other RR..

Answer 10

Learn how to drive a train

Answer 11

apply for it

Answer 12

Hi, try Eurostar & Euroshuttle or English, Welsh & Scottish freight company (european work) - may be more attractive, to go to Europe & get paid for it!

Hear hear for the patriotic answers - train drivers not engineers, FOOTBALL, NOT SOCCER! unlike the film title, we are not the 51st state ---YET!

Answer 13

Might as well become a truck driver. Both jobs suck.

Answer 14

My dad was a train driver for 38 years and all i know is, that when he first started he was a station porter, local to where he lived. Then he gradually started to learn the ropes on diesel trains and progressed onto electric trains.

I dare say, like him, you will probably will need to contact your local railway network and ask if they have any opportunities for new trainees.

I don't think you'll regret it. My dad told us some fantastic stories about his work ( although sometimes hard ) and also I don't think the pay is too bad either. Good luck in what ever you do!

Answer 15

get one of those killer hats..

Answer 16

Buy a choo-choo train.

Answer 17

borin job !!

Answer 18

Get a taxi licence.

Answer 19

first, say goodbye to any dreams you had of doing anything else with your life other than "driving a train"....then say goodbye to to family....it's a good paycheck,good bennies, but it aint the life for everyone.  if you like trains now, enjoy them.  but if you work for a railroad, it won't take long and you'll hate...i used to love trains..now i never want to see or hear a train again...if you're young, stay in school and do something else with your life, but still love the trains..