Ask any child what he or she wants to be when he or she grows up, and you’re going to get a variety of answers. Of course, those answers are going to be limited. A bus driver is a popular answer per Bots. Who could blame these kids? Any kid would love to drive around in a 12.5-tonne vehicle that allows others to go from point A to point B. It’s quite a rewarding job to drive a bus, however, many don’t understand how to become a bus driver. What sort of training is required to become a bus driver?
License And Requirements For Driving A Bus
The government is very strict in regards to driving large-sized vehicles, especially those that transport people in lieu of goods. They have some basic requirements that include the following:
- All drivers must be over the age of 18 years old
- Drivers must have a CPC or certificate of professional competence
- Drivers must first have a full car license
Of course, there are also specific endorsements that are required including a CAT D license as a base and then if you wish to attach a trailer to the bus, you’ll need a CAT D & E. Similarly, passing the C+E licence test is a requirement for operating an articulated vehicle or a rigid vehicle towing a large trailer. These licenses can be procured via a Driver CPC if you wish to be a professional driver. If you wish to become a bus driver, you’ll also have to be over the age of 24 and have a CAT D license in your possession. A bus is classified as over 8 passenger seats. You’ll first require a CAT B license.
The CAT B License
Prior to obtaining your CAT D license, you’ll have to first earn your CAT B license. This may sound like lots of hard work, but, we have great news, a CAT B license is simply an industry term for a regular driver’s license. A regular driver’s license allows you to drive a regular car. You can also tow a trailer of up to 750 KG. If you’re over the age of 21, a motorized tricycle that has the power of over 15KW as well. So, you’ll not only be able to drive but you can specialize.
What Does the CAT D Training Cover?
If you wish to drive a bus, you’ll have to have a CAT D license in order to drive the bus. Just as many of the other kinds of HGV or LGV licenses, CAT D is divided into two main parts. There is the theory and the practical. The training modules are designed to teach people how to drive professionals and to keep themselves, and their passengers safe. This can help to set you up to become a professional driver. The training will include:
Rules and regulations for driving a bus focusing on maintenance and general fixes for the vehicle.
Customer service tips.
How to keep yourself and passengers …
‘Bus driver’ is a perennially popular response when you ask children what they want to be when they grow up. It’s a career that’s well worth considering, even after you get past primary school! Bus driving is a challenging and rewarding career. Taking responsibility for a 12.5-tonne vehicle and helping hundreds of people get to where they need to go every day is a fine way to make a living! There are plenty of adults eager to take the big wheel and become a bus driver. What sort of training and preparation is required to become a bus driver, though?