How To Apply For Train Driver Training And Get The Train Driving License

By Leslie Ball


The train driver has the responsibility to drive and operate the train. They may be referred to as the railroad engineers, locomotive engineers, or footplate men. On average, it is a well-paying job. It is best for those who enjoy traveling and seeing the countryside and do not mind being away from the family for several weeks. It is also associated with other benefits like the job security, pensions, and union membership. In order to join this profession, your first concern should be how to apply for train driver training.

When compared to other careers like the ship pilot or an aircraft pilot, the academic requirements are not very high. Their career requires a number of personal trains, the major ones being the ability to handle emergency situations without panic, the ability to handle loneliness for long durations, self-discipline, attention to detail, and working under no supervision among others. Financially speaking, this is a very rewarding career. Other tan high salaries, there are opportunities to join labor unions, enjoy pensions and several allowances. However, it is dangerous to join the profession solely for financial rewards as it can be very boring and frustrating at times.

The starting point is the basic qualification requirements. The first of these is the minimum age limit which I 18 in most countries. You also need a work permit in the country or state where you intend to work. The minimum academic qualification must also be met. The other important aspects include passing the background check and drug screening tests.

With the above qualifications, it is time to attend the formal training. This involves both the hand in experience course and classroom course. Normally, it can last for weeks or months. Most prospective drivers choose to train in a school that is operated by a railroad company. Here, there are limitless opportunities to learn through practical experience. However, one could also opt for a community college where he/he attains an associate's degree in the railroad operations.

After settling on a particular college, it is time to make your application. This is not difficult. All you need to do is to approach the college and make an inquiry on a number of issues such as the fee and the date when the next course will be starting. In some cases, the college advertises for their courses through the media.

The application normally involves filling in details in the application form and other documents as required by the college. After this, make the fee payment and take the necessary tests as may be required by the college. All that remains afterward is to sit in the class and start your course.

The course may last for months or weeks and after the completion, you sit for exams and prepare for the next phase which involves long duration of acquiring experience. There are numerous ways of acquiring the experience. You could work as a conductor, a laborer, a rail yard worker, or even a brakeman. However, working as a train driver trainee may give you more experience.

Rise through the ranks to work as a trainee train driver and pass the federal exams and other licensing and professional exams with additional training from simulators, classrooms and hand on experience before eventually getting the license.




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