Community transport driver
Social care

How to become a community transport driver

You can get into this job through:

• an apprenticeship
• applying directly

Apprenticeship

You could do a passenger transport driver intermediate apprenticeship. This will usually take 12 months to complete. You'll do on-the-job training and spend time with a college or training provider. You'll need to be 18 and must hold a valid UK driving licence, at least Category B (car driving licence).

Apprenticeship (Entry requirements)

There are no set entry requirements but it may help you to get in if you have:

• some GCSEs, usually including English and maths, or equivalent, for an intermediate apprenticeship

Direct application

It may be possible to apply directly if you have relevant skills and knowledge, although your employer will give you training. You'll need a category D licence to drive larger passenger carrying vehicles (PCVs) with more than 9 seats. Experience in customer care, healthcare or social work will be useful. It will also help if you have an understanding of disability needs as many of your passengers will be disabled.

More info

Further information You can find out more about becoming a community transport driver from the Community Transport Association.

What it takes

Skills & Knowledge

You'll need:

• patience and the ability to remain calm in stressful situations
• to be thorough and pay attention to detail
• sensitivity and understanding
• the ability to accept criticism and work well under pressure
• the ability to work well with others
• knowledge of transport methods, costs and benefits
• customer service skills
• knowledge of public safety and security
• to be able to carry out basic tasks on a computer or hand-held device

Restriction & Requirements

You'll need to:

• have a full driving licence
• be over 21 years of age
• pass enhanced background checks
• have a good level of fitness

What you'll do

Day to day

Your day-to-day duties could include:

• planning the best route
• lifting and helping passengers on and off
• performing basic vehicle checks
• keeping the vehicle tidy between journeys

Working environment

You could work from a vehicle. You may need to wear a uniform.

Career path and progression

Career path & progression

With experience, you could progress to operations or service manager. With the right licence, you could also move into other areas of driving, or, with further training, into vehicle maintenance and repair.