How To Become A Train Driver In South Africa (2025)

This guide outlines the step-by-step process of becoming a train driver in South Africa, including the required qualifications, training programs, skills, and career prospects.

1. Understanding the Role of a Train Driver

Before pursuing this career, it is important to understand the duties and responsibilities of a train driver. The main responsibilities include:

• Operating trains according to schedules and safety regulations
• Monitoring train instruments and controls
• Responding to signals and instructions from control centers
• Ensuring the safety of passengers, cargo, and crew
• Communicating with railway staff and stations
• Handling emergency situations, such as breakdowns or track obstructions

Train drivers typically work in shifts, including nights, weekends, and public holidays, as the railway system operates continuously.

2. Meeting the Basic Requirements

To become a train driver in South Africa, you must meet specific entry requirements:

a) Age and Legal Requirements

• You must be at least 18 years old.
• You need to have a valid South African ID.
• Some employers may require a valid driver’s license.

b) Educational Requirements

• A Grade 12 (Matric) certificate is required, with Mathematics and Science as preferred subjects.
• Strong reading and writing skills in English are essential, as communication in railway operations is conducted in English.

3. Enrolling in a Train Driver Training Program

Aspiring train drivers must undergo specialized training. In South Africa, railway operators and training institutions offer train driver courses approved by the Transport Education and Training Authority (TETA).

a) Where to Apply for Training

Train driver training is mainly provided by:

• Transnet Freight Rail – The largest railway operator in South Africa, offering structured training programs.
• PRASA (Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa) – Focuses on passenger train services and driver training.
• Private Training Institutions – Some accredited institutions offer railway-related courses.

b) Types of Training Offered

Training includes both theoretical classroom learning and practical on-the-job experience. The course typically covers:

• Train operation and controls
• Railway safety regulations
• Emergency procedures
• Signal interpretation
• Mechanical and electrical systems of locomotives

The duration of training varies, but it usually lasts between 12 to 24 months.

4. Completing the Apprenticeship or Learnership Program

Most railway operators, particularly Transnet and PRASA, offer apprenticeship programs or learnerships to train aspiring drivers. These programs combine theory with practical experience under the supervision of experienced train drivers.

a) Transnet Learnership Program

Transnet offers a Train Assistant Learnership, which is a stepping stone to becoming a train driver. The program includes:

• Assisting qualified train drivers in operations
• Learning about locomotive functions and rail safety
• Gaining hands-on experience in train driving

After successfully completing the learnership, candidates can apply for promotion to Trainee Train Driver positions.

5. Gaining Experience as a Train Assistant

Before qualifying as a full train driver, candidates must work as Train Assistants for a specific period. The Train Assistant’s role involves:

• Assisting with train coupling and decoupling
• Inspecting trains for mechanical issues
• Assisting in emergency situations
• Learning train operation under supervision

This experience is crucial, as it provides practical knowledge of railway operations and safety measures.

6. Obtaining Certification and Licensing

After completing the training and gaining experience, candidates must pass a train driving examination. This certification is issued by railway regulatory authorities and is necessary to operate trains independently.

Train drivers must also undergo:

• Medical Examinations – To ensure they are physically and mentally fit for the job.
• Psychometric Testing – To assess decision-making skills, reaction times, and concentration levels.

Once certified, candidates receive a Train Driver License, allowing them to work as professional locomotive operators.

7. Applying for Train Driver Jobs

Qualified train drivers can apply for positions with major railway companies, including:

• Transnet Freight Rail – Specializing in freight transport across South Africa.
• PRASA (Metrorail and Shosholoza Meyl) – Operating passenger train services.
• Private Railway Companies – Some industries, such as mining and logistics, hire train drivers for internal operations.

When applying, ensure your CV highlights:

• Train driver certification and qualifications
• Work experience (including Train Assistant roles)
• Knowledge of railway safety regulations
• Strong problem-solving and communication skills

8. Advancing in Your Train Driving Career

Once employed as a train driver, there are opportunities for career growth, including:

• Senior Train Driver – With experience, drivers can operate more complex and high-speed trains.
• Train Driver Instructor – Teaching and mentoring new trainees.
• Railway Operations Manager – Overseeing train operations and scheduling.

Continued professional development is encouraged, with additional courses available to enhance skills and knowledge.

9. Expected Salary and Benefits

Train driver salaries in South Africa vary depending on experience and employer. Generally, salaries range from:

• Entry-level Train Assistants: R120,000 – R180,000 per year
• Qualified Train Drivers: R250,000 – R500,000 per year
• Senior Train Drivers: R600,000+ per year

Benefits may include medical aid, pension funds, and travel allowances.

10. Challenges of Being a Train Driver

While the job is rewarding, there are challenges to consider:

• Irregular Working Hours – Train drivers work shifts, including nights and weekends.
• High Responsibility – Ensuring passenger and cargo safety requires great attention to detail.
• Stressful Situations – Dealing with emergencies, such as breakdowns or collisions.

However, the career is stable, well-paying, and offers opportunities for advancement.

If you have a passion for trains and are willing to put in the effort, this career can offer job security, competitive salaries, and the opportunity to travel while operating one of the country’s most essential transport systems

1. Driving the Train – Controlling speed, braking, and stopping at stations or designated locations.
2. Following Schedules – Ensuring the train runs on time according to the timetable.
3. Observing Signals – Watching for railway signals, speed limits, and instructions from the control center.
4. Checking Equipment – Inspecting the train before and after journeys for mechanical or safety issues.
5. Communicating with Control Centers – Receiving and reporting information about track conditions, delays, or emergencies.
6. Ensuring Passenger Safety – For passenger trains, ensuring a smooth ride and responding to emergencies.
7. Transporting Goods – For freight trains, ensuring cargo is delivered securely and on time.

Train drivers typically undergo rigorous training and must have a deep understanding of railway safety procedures

1. Good Salary & Benefits

• Train drivers typically earn a competitive salary, with potential for overtime pay.
• Many railway companies offer good pension schemes, health insurance, and other benefits.

2. Job Security

• Rail transport is an essential industry, making train driving a stable career with long-term employment opportunities.

3. Work-Life Balance

• While shifts can be long, many train drivers have structured schedules, allowing for a good work-life balance.
• Some rail companies offer flexible working arrangements.

4. Career Progression

• Opportunities exist to move into higher positions such as senior driver, instructor, or management roles.

5. Travel Opportunities

• Train drivers get to travel across different cities and landscapes while working.
• Discounts or free travel for employees and their families are often included as perks.

6. Independence & Responsibility

• Train drivers work independently, managing their schedules and ensuring passenger and freight safety.
• The role comes with a sense of responsibility and pride in operating a large vehicle.

7. Job Satisfaction

• Many train drivers enjoy the thrill of operating powerful locomotives.
• Providing a reliable service to passengers or transporting goods efficiently can be rewarding

1. Piet Botha – One of South Africa’s most experienced steam train drivers, known for his work with Rovos Rail, one of the world’s most luxurious trains.

2. Aubrey Matshiqi – Not a driver himself, but an influential figure in railway operations, having worked with PRASA (Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa) in efforts to modernize and improve rail services.

3. Train Drivers of the Blue Train – While specific names aren’t often publicized, the drivers of South Africa’s iconic Blue Train, which runs luxury journeys between Pretoria and Cape Town, are highly skilled and well-respected.

4. Historic Black Train Drivers in Apartheid Era – Under apartheid, Black train drivers were rare due to systemic restrictions. Those who broke barriers by becoming engineers or conductors played a significant role in changing the industry