To become a tube (London Underground) driver, the typical steps are:
- Start by applying for a job within Transport for London (TfL), often in customer service or ticket office roles.
- After at least 6 months in a TfL role and meeting minimum age requirements (18 years for the London Underground), apply for a train driver position.
- Pass a rigorous selection process including online tests, assessment centers, group tests, English tests, interviews, and medical examinations.
- If successful, complete intensive training lasting around 6 to 12 months that includes hands-on driving, safety training, theoretical and practical exams, and gaining qualifications such as a Personal Track Safety Certificate and NVQ Level 2 in Rail Transport Operations (Driving).
- After completing training, become qualified to drive London Underground trains.
Key skills include concentration, decision-making, ability to work alone, attention to detail, and basic mechanical knowledge. The job involves working in shifts and requires physical and psychological fitness. The training is comprehensive and demanding, preparing trainees to operate trains safely and efficiently on the London Underground network.
