Are you ready to learn to drive a bus or coach?

Whether you want to drive a long-distance coach, a local bus or a minibus, you will need to develop your driving skills to give your passengers a safe and comfortable journey.

Getting started

Here’s a quick checklist to see if you can learn to drive a passenger carrying vehicle (PCV).

You must

be 18 years old (subject to certain conditions), otherwise at least 21 years old. You can drive a bus at the age of 17 if you're a member of the armed forces
hold a full car licence for Great Britain or Northern Ireland
apply for the correct provisional entitlements for a PCV licence
provide a medical report showing you’re fit to drive a PCV
make sure any vehicle you drive is roadworthy and properly taxed and insured
display L plates on the front and rear of the vehicle where they can be clearly seen when you’re driving (L or D plates in Wales)
be accompanied by a qualified driver who is over 21 and has held (and still holds) a full PCV licence for the category of vehicle being driven for at least 3 years

Learning to be a bus or coach driver

As a professional bus or coach driver, you should set an example to other road users by showing the right attitude to your driving and a good knowledge of safe, modern driving techniques.