A career as a train driver

[flexmade]

For those who have successfully become trainee drivers or are currently drivers, did you use anything to support you in making your applications e.g YouTube videos, forums etc since I recently applied for EMRs depot driver role but was unsuccessful and they didn’t provide me with feedback on what I could’ve improved on.

 

[johndominic]

Hi everyone,

I’m currently preparing for a GWR Train Driver assessment and I’m looking for some advice from anyone who has been through the process recently.

Could anyone explain what is CDQ and PIF means? also what involves during this train driver assessment? I’d particularly like to understand what type of questions/tasks are included and how best to prepare for them.

I’d also really appreciate any advice on the MMI. What types of questions should I expect, and what are the interviewers looking for in a GWR candidate?

If anyone who has completed a GWR MMI could share some example questions, the type of answers that worked well, or general preparation tips, that would be hugely appreciated. I’m not looking to memorise answers, just trying to understand the format and what good evidence-based answers should look like.

Thanks in advance for any help!

 

[Wyrleybart]

Footwear

Just been emailed a request for which footwear to choose before I start training. What do current train drivers recommend. Boot or trainer style? Or is it down to personal preference?

Just remember you would likely need to clamber around on the ballast if things go wrong, as well as for prep duties on rolling stock if you bring it off depots. Obviously tracks are not as oily and greasy as they used to be, but I wouldn't be wearing anything light

 

[Unobrow]

I’d also really appreciate any advice on the MMI. What types of questions should I expect, and what are the interviewers looking for in a GWR candidate?

You need to read the pinned posts.

Trainee Driver Assessment Process Tips

This forum was very helpful to me as I went through the application and assessment process to be a trainee train driver, so I thought I would pass on a few tips to help others, too! So, you made it through the paper sift and you get invited to the assessment centre – well done, you have an...

www.railforums.co.uk

 

[Sully Fred]

I have an upcoming MMI, does anyone know if I am permitted to have notes with me when writing my brief answers at the start of the MMI?
Thank you.

 

[Twotwo]

How strict are the height requirements for the role of train driver?

I’m 5’1 (unfortunately), West Midlands railway supposedly have a strict minimum height requirement of 5’2.

Becoming a pilot or a train driver were the only two career paths that have ever interested me and I’m too short for both…

any stories from women around my height who had some luck becoming a driver?

Im 5ft 0 or 5ft 1 and I am a driver for GTR.

 

[Ludus]

I have an upcoming MMI, does anyone know if I am permitted to have notes with me when writing my brief answers at the start of the MMI?
Thank you.

They did not allow me to. We had to put our phones away and were not allowed any other notes or papers on our desk, so had to be from memory only.

 

[tallFella]

I was wondering what's the maximum height allowed for train drivers? If 5'2 is the minimum req what's the max req?

 

[driver9000]

I was wondering what's the maximum height allowed for train drivers? If 5'2 is the minimum req what's the max req?

The RSSB doesn't mandate a maximum height but 6ft 4in is usually mentioned due to the limitations of the cab environment. I'm 6ft and there's definitely Drivers taller than me.

 

[Turner22]

How strict are the height requirements for the role of train driver?

I’m 5’1 (unfortunately), West Midlands railway supposedly have a strict minimum height requirement of 5’2.

Becoming a pilot or a train driver were the only two career paths that have ever interested me and I’m too short for both…

any stories from women around my height who had some luck becoming a driver?

2 at my place

== Doublepost prevention - post automatically merged: 21 Sep 2026 ==

2 at my place

2 at my place

Sure she one said she was 5ft flat. They had to buy Thier own shoes.

 

[mattybed21]

Morning just wondering if anyone has any information. I’m currently waiting to hear back from a freight Company about a trainee driver role which I applied for. It’s been almost six weeks since I applied and has an email saying they will get in touch with all applicant when they have an update. How long does it normally take

 

[IndegoMouse]

is this GBRf by any chance?

 

[mattybed21]

No DRS

 

[tiptoptaff]

As with all railway recruitment, be prepared to hurry up and wait

 

[Waterlooville]

I am interested in how much of an issue boredom is once you start driving - when does it set in and how do you deal with it? I have just started as a trainee south of London and will be out at my depot next year from February. My route is a max of 50 mins long so personally I am fine with maintaining concentration but I do wonder how monotonous it all is.

 

[rjpark]

Hi,
I'm waiting for a position as a trainee driver at Northern to come up local to me. A trainee conductor position has been advertised - would it make sense to apply for the conductor role to get a foot in the door? Is there a general rule of not accepting applications for trainee drivers from recently employed trainee conductors? Any advice appreciated. Thanks.

 

[transportphoto]

Hi,
I'm waiting for a position as a trainee driver at Northern to come up local to me. A trainer conductor position has been advertised - would it make sense to apply for the conductor role to get a foot in the door? Is there a general rule of not accepting applications for trainee drivers from recently employed trainee conductors? Any advice appreciated. Thanks.

We recently discussed a similar question which you may find helpful: https://www.railforums.co.uk/threads/northern-train-dispatcher-role-and-progression.307572/