UK lowers train driver age to 18 to boost rail careers

School leavers will soon be able to become train drivers, as the government is set to lower the legal age to be a train driver from 20 to 18-years-old from 30th June 2026. The government says this move will open doors for younger people to enter a highly skilled profession at a pivotal time for the industry. By 2030, a quarter of all train drivers are expected to reach retirement age—a figure that rises to 38% in Wales and 32% in Scotland and the North East.

Legislation will be laid in Parliament during National Apprenticeship Week. Rail Minister, Lord Peter Hendy, said: ‘‘Lowering the minimum age for train drivers is a significant step forward for young people across Britain. This change will open doors for those wanting to move straight into the workplace, giving a younger generation the chance to build rewarding careers in the railway, whether that’s in freight or passenger services.

‘‘It’s a move that will help secure the future of Great British Railways and the wider rail industry and ensure the workforce reflects the energy, talent and ambition of the next generation.’’ The rail industry currently faces a significant diversity gap; fewer than 4% of train drivers are under 30, only 11% are women, and less than 13% are from a minority ethnic background. The law change brings the UK in line with countries like Germany and Switzerland. It also ‘levels the playing field’ with other transport sectors; currently, 18-year-olds are already permitted to fly commercial planes or drive tubes and trams on the London Underground.
Work and Pensions Secretary, Pat McFadden, added: ‘‘With almost a million young people not in education, employment or training, we need to open up new routes into skilled, well-paid careers.

‘‘Lowering the minimum age for train drivers puts young people at the controls – of a train today, and of their own futures tomorrow.

‘‘Apprenticeships like these benefit everyone. Young people gain skills and a foot on the career ladder, while employers gain the fresh talent they need to grow. It’s a great example of what’s possible when government, unions and industry work together.’’