Higher Rail Fares Mean Big Business for Coaches

In Sevenoaks, Kent, more commuters are forgoing the trains and choosing coaches as the main means of commuting to and from the capital. Experts say they are doing so after 11 straight years of annual fare increases that have outpaced inflation and wages. The average increase for 2014 is expected around 4%, but some lines could see a 10% increase.

Commuters are now responding with their feet and their wallets. More are choosing coaches simply because they cost less, even though they might be slightly less convenient. Coach companies are not complaining either. Centaur, for example, has been offering a rail fair refund since beginning service into London. Company officials say they have noticed a steady increase in passenger traffic since the latest fare hikes went into effect in February.

With no end to the fare hikes in sight, there is some speculation that this is now the best time to be involved in local and regional coach service. It also suggests the current shortage in coach drivers will only get worse as time goes by. Coach drivers must earn a PCV licence and maintain CPC certification by receiving remedial training every few years.

Coach companies and recruiting organisations are working very hard to fill the open coach driver positions. They are also engaging training companies to help recruit drivers as well. Keeping up with the demand may be a challenge however, if coach companies continue to see passenger numbers increase at the current pace.

Earning Your Licence

Earning a licence is not difficult as long as the driver already has a full car licence. If not, that’s the obvious place to start. Those who do have a full car licence should contact the HGV Training Centre to get started.

In order to begin practical skills training the new driver must first pass the PCV theory test. However, even before that, there is a routine medical exam and an application for a provisional entitlement. Our knowledgeable staff can walk you through the process if you need help.

Once you pass the PCV theory test it is on to practical skills training. This training includes time both in the classroom and behind the wheel. Upon completion, you take your practical skills test at an approved facility in the UK. Rest assured that you wouldn’t be alone; we are happy to send one of our trainers with you to the test.

A career as a coach driver is a rewarding one in many ways. It pays well, it offers job stability, and it offers a certain sense of freedom and independence that you will not enjoy on a manufacturing line or sitting in a cubicle. PCV driving is not for everyone, but it is for those who like to get out and about.

If you’re interested in learning more about earning your licence or what’s required to take your PCV theory test, don’t hesitate to contact us. One of our representatives will be more than happy to assist you.