A UK rule change in force since June 2026 allows 18-year-olds to apply to train as train drivers directly after school or college, according to a Department for Transport press release published on 19 August 2026. Previously, only people aged 20 and above could train for the role; no degree is required.

The department said fewer than 4% of train drivers are under 30 and fewer than 12% are women, while a quarter of the current workforce will reach retirement age by 2030. It also cited around 1 million young people aged 16 to 24 not in education, employment or training, and a £2.5 billion government investment to tackle youth unemployment. National trainee driver salaries range between £27,000 and £33,000, the release said.

Rail Minister Lord Peter Hendy and representatives of the Rail Delivery Group and ASLEF welcomed the change, citing recruitment needs and a workforce better reflecting the communities served. The department said the move brings the UK in line with countries including Switzerland, Germany and Australia, and matches rules already applying to pilots and London tram and tube drivers.