Marvin OnumonuThe Government has confirmed plans to lower the minimum age for train drivers from 20 to 18, allowing school leavers to apply for roles from 30th June 2026.
The change is set to open up new career paths for young people, with a quarter of all train drivers expected to reach retirement age by 2030.
The figure is higher in some regions – 32% in Scotland and the North East, and 38% in Wales.
The move comes as half of train operators are now back in public ownership, and is seen as a step towards creating Great British Railways.
The legislation was laid during National Apprenticeship Week to help get more young people into skilled work and tackle youth unemployment.
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.”
Currently, fewer than 4% of train drivers are under 30, only 11% are women, and less than 13% are from a minority ethnic background.
The new rules bring the UK in line with Switzerland, Germany and Australia, and match transport sector standards where 18 year olds can drive tubes, trams or fly planes.
Work and Pensions Secretary Pat McFadden, said: “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.”
McFadden added: “It’s a great example of what’s possible when government, unions and industry work together.”
Daniel Mann, director of industry operations at Rail Delivery Group said: “The rail industry plays a vital role in connecting communities and supporting the economy, and as the workforce evolves, we need to attract a broader range of skills, experiences, and perspectives.
“Lowering the minimum age for train drivers will help to open up a career in the railway for young people and will enable the industry to build the workforce of the future, support long term resilience and make sure the railway can continue to deliver for passengers.”
Cabinet Secretary for Transport and North Wales Ken Skates, said: “This is great news and will open up opportunities for young people.
“It opens the door to a rewarding career earlier, giving young people an opportunity to be part of the exciting developments in our railways.”
Dave Calfe, general secretary of the Associated Society of Locomotive Engineers and Firemen (ASLEF) said: “ASLEF has been campaigning for many years to lower the age at which drivers can start training.
“This decision, to allow people to leave education and become a driver at 18, will increase diversity in the driver’s cab by encouraging more young people from all communities to drive trains on Britain’s railways.
“Because, at the moment, many young people make their career choice at 18 and the industry misses out as the current minimum age is 20.
“This change will widen the opportunity for the rail industry to recruit the large numbers of train drivers required over the next 5 years.”
