How much do London bus drivers earn?

London bus driver salary explained

The salary of a London bus driver must abide by the London Professional Wage (LPW). As of 2026, this typically starts at £13.85-£14.80 per hour for trainee drivers, rising to around £16.23 per hour in your first year once qualified and up to £20.12+ per hour once experienced (+3 years) – with weekend and overtime rates pushing this higher, depending on the operator.

The Licence for London scheme (LfL) specifically protects drivers in the event of switching employment between bus operators. This means that wages will be maintained despite changing employers. The scheme recognises the drivers’ services and aims to maintain employee satisfaction within the industry. 

If you’re looking to become a London bus driver, the first step is earning your PCV (Passenger Carrying Vehicle) licence. At HGV Training Network, we offer PCV training designed to get you qualified and out on the road as quickly as possible.

Register your interest today, and we’ll help get you started!

How much do London bus drivers earn monthly?

London bus drivers are paid on a scale which typically averages at £15 per hour. Based on a 40-hour week, this amounts to around £2600 per month.

The hourly rate for an experienced driver can vary, averaging at £18. Based on a 40-hour week, you’re looking at earning around £3120 per month.

Factors such as experience and hours of work play a role in deciding an hourly rate. Drivers who work unsociable shifts, such as weekends and evenings, can access premiums, which allows them to access a wage of up to £20 (averaging at £3466 per month based on a 40-hour week).

Pay can vary depending on the bus operator too. Apprentices for Go-Ahead London reportedly earn a minimum of £15.37 per hour (£2664 per month based on 40 hours). However, this might not be the same for all companies.

How much do London bus drivers earn yearly?

The yearly salary for a driver can land anywhere between £25,742 and £48,270. Again, considerations such as experience, level of training, and hours of work must be taken into account. 

During training, a driver’s salary can average at £27,227 per annum. This will increase after completion.

For a fully qualified driver, the average salary sits at £32,815 per annum.

Can you work part-time as a London bus driver?

Many bus companies offer part-time contracts as a driver in London, including Metroline and Transport UK.

A career as a London driver provides flexibility to a variety of workers. By working shifts, you can suit your individual requirements. As well as working part-time hours, drivers can also consider full-time, weekend, evening, and casual contracts.

What are the benefits of becoming a bus driver in London?

Career progression

Bus driving in London is a fruitful career. The sliding scale of pay allows progression to work towards.

Additionally, drivers can specialise in other roles. Other careers in the sector can include training new drivers, route planning, and supervising.

Flexible hours

People in London are always on the move! With a career in bus driving, you can work hours that accommodate your needs. Drivers can work from a variety of shifts, including overtime, weekends, evenings, and casual (on an as-needed basis).

Job security

The LfL scheme provides drivers with security. Drivers can progress their careers with different operators without compromising pay.

It’s a growing industry! According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, job opportunities for drivers will increase in the next 6 years by 21%. By becoming a driver, you can be confident that your new career will promise you stability.

Do you want to start a career in bus driving?

We offer training for a bus and coach (Cat D) licence through HGV Training Network. You can register your interest today.

If you have any more questions regarding HGV Training Network or a career in driving, you canget in touch with one of our friendly experts. Contact form and our approachable but experienced staff will be in touch to see how they can help.