Massive hiring push for bus drivers in the UK – here’s what they earn
The UK bus industry is revving up for a major recruitment drive amid a persistent driver shortage, with government-backed campaigns urging job seekers to hop on board.
As of late 2025, the Confederation of Passenger Transport (CPT) reported over 4,000 vacancies in the bus and coach sector, with bus vacancies at 3.4% and coach roles hitting 12.4% – a gap that’s prompting operators to offer competitive pay, flexible hours, and fast-track training.
This push comes on the heels of the government’s Bus Services Act and a £3 billion investment in bus infrastructure over the next three years, aimed at modernizing fleets with more electric vehicles, cheaper fares, and better protections for essential routes.
A push from government
On Wednesday (25 February), the government launched a fresh initiative featuring real bus drivers sharing their stories to attract new talent, from first-time workers to career switchers.
Young drivers like 25-year-old Leea Carnegie from Stagecoach Yorkshire describe the role as a “family-like” environment with rapid progression, she advanced to lead driver in just 18 months.
Similarly, 20-year-old Daejanelle Hayden with Go-Ahead London highlights the job’s inclusivity and the satisfaction of connecting passengers to key life moments, from school runs to hospital visits.
“I love being a bus driver because every day is different and I get to make a real difference in people’s lives. As a young female driver, I’m proud to be part of an industry that’s evolving and becoming more diverse. I’ve gained fantastic road experience and confidence, and I genuinely enjoy helping passengers get to where they need to be safely,” said Sophie Ord, a 24-year-old driver for Go North East.
“I’d highly recommend bus driving to other young people. It’s a career that offers independence, responsibility and the chance to travel around different places, meet new people and experience something new every day, far from being stuck in a typical office job.”
The shortage isn’t new, but it’s intensifying despite efforts to lower entry barriers. In November 2025, the EU reduced the minimum age for bus and HGV drivers, a move the UK could follow to boost numbers.
Major operators like Go North East are hosting massive recruitment days, aiming to fill 35 spots across depots in Gateshead, Sunderland, and Washington. Go-Ahead London, the capital’s largest operator with over 6,000 drivers and 2,300 buses, is also expanding its team.
Even in regions like the West Midlands and Scotland, companies such as National Express and Stagecoach are advertising full-time and part-time roles with signing bonuses up to £2,500.
What do bus drivers earn in the UK?
Salaries vary by location, experience, and operator, but the national average hourly rate hovers around £15.48, translating to about £32,000 annually for a standard 40-hour week.
In London, where demand is highest, pay jumps to an average of £18.17 per hour, or roughly £37,800 yearly, with some roles offering up to £21.80 base plus overtime that can push earnings past £45,000.
Entry-level positions often start at £14-£16 per hour, but with overtime and shift premiums, top earners can hit £55,000 or more.
Benefits sweeten the deal: many roles include free travel concessions, pension schemes, and shift patterns that support work-life balance.
How to become a bus driver in the UK
Getting started as a bius driver is straightforward. No advanced qualifications are typically required beyond a full UK driving license and passing a Passenger Carrying Vehicle (PCV) test, many employers like Metroline also provide free training worth up to £4,000.
The government’s reforms also mandate anti-social behaviour training for drivers, enhancing safety and job appeal.
“I enjoy being a bus driver because it is always different. No matter where you drive, it is always different people and a different scenery – especially in the lakes. I enjoy being able to have a laugh with the tourists and having a good catch-up with the locals,” said Tia Stalham, 21, from the Kendal depot at Stagecoach Cumbria.
“Bus driving offers so much: helping your community, making friends with your colleagues and opportunities to meet people from all over. If you like driving and working independently while still interacting with the public, it is great. There is a sense of purpose and pride when you’re driving, providing a service to lots of people and a different kind of responsibility as there’s a trust with passengers’ safety and wellbeing.”
