Bus and coach drivers Pay Data UK — 2025

Bus and coach drivers roles in the UK earn a median of £34,225 per year, equivalent to £16.08 per hour as of 2025. This represents a 5.0% increase in annual pay compared to the previous year. Pay varies across the UK, ranging from £28,166 to £57,862 per year.

How Pay Varies Across the UK

Each bar shows how many areas of the UK have a median annual pay in that range for Bus and coach drivers roles. The dashed line marks the national median.

Based on sub-regional area data. Want a precise figure for your area?

About Bus and coach drivers

Bus and coach drivers drive road passenger-carrying vehicles such as buses, coaches and mini-buses.

Typical Tasks and Duties

• checks tyres, brakes, lights, oil, water and fuel levels and general condition of the vehicle before start of journey
• drives single- and double-decked vehicle over pre-determined route, complying with traffic regulations and keeping to time schedule
• stops and opens and closes doors at pre-arranged places to allow passengers to board and alight, observing regulations concerning the number of passengers carried
• may collect fares from passengers and issue tickets or ensure that they use a ticket machine
• may plan routes in conjunction with private hirer and assist with loading and unloading of luggage
• balances cash taken with tickets sold and may be responsible for cleanliness of vehicle
• maintains records of journey times, mileage and hours worked

Entry Routes and Qualifications

There are no formal academic entry requirements, though candidates must be in possession of a full car driving licence. All bus and coach drivers are required to hold the Driver Certificate of Professional Competence (CPC). This incorporates a theoretical examination and assessed driving. Entrants to the CPC test must be at least 18 years old. NVQs/SVQs in Road Passenger Vehicle Driving are available at level 2.

Related Occupations

Salary data is sourced from official UK pay datasets and updated periodically.