Bus driver salaries in the UK have increased significantly in recent years, driven by a well-documented shortage of qualified PCV drivers. This guide provides detailed salary data for bus and coach drivers in 2026, covering both local bus and long-distance coach roles.
Bus Driver Salaries: National Overview
In 2026, bus and coach driver salaries in the UK typically range from £25,000 to £40,000+ per year, depending on the employer, location, and type of work.
| Role | Annual Salary Range |
|---|---|
| Local bus driver (city/town) | £25,000–£35,000 |
| Local bus driver (London) | £30,000–£40,000 |
| School bus/minibus driver | £20,000–£28,000 (often part-time) |
| Coach driver (long distance) | £28,000–£38,000 |
| Tour coach driver | £28,000–£40,000 |
| Private hire minibus driver (D1) | £22,000–£32,000 |
London Bus Driver Salaries
London bus drivers employed by operators contracted to Transport for London (TfL) earn some of the highest bus driver salaries in the UK. Starting salaries are typically £30,000 to £33,000, rising to £36,000 to £40,000+ with experience and additional responsibilities. London bus drivers also benefit from strong union representation and good employment conditions.
What Licence Do You Need to Drive a Bus?
To drive a bus or coach with more than 8 passenger seats professionally, you need a Category D (full bus) or Category D1 (minibus up to 16 seats) licence. Both require the Driver CPC initial qualification and periodic training. See our PCV Training page for details on how to obtain your bus licence.
Bus Driver Demand in 2026
The UK bus and coach industry continues to face a significant shortage of qualified drivers. Major operators including Arriva, Go-Ahead, FirstGroup, National Express, and Stagecoach are actively recruiting. New drivers with a D1 or D licence typically find employment quickly, particularly in urban areas.
Get Your PCV/D1 Licence with GS Driver Training
GS Driver Training offers PCV and D1 minibus training from our base in Surrey. Contact us today to discuss your training options and start your bus driving career.
