The government has announced that it will be lowering the legal age to be a train driver from 20 to 18, welcoming new opportunities for school leavers.
The change, which comes into law on 30 June 2026, has been described by the government as a move that will "open doors" for the industry to combat an impending shortage of train drivers.
By 2030, a quarter of all train drivers are expected to reach retirement age, with this figure rising to 32% in Scotland and the North East, and 38% in Wales.
Lord Peter Hendy, one of CILT(UK)'s past presidents and now Rail Minister, said: "Lowering the minimum age for train drivers is a significant step forward for young people across Britain.
"This change will open doors for those wanting to move straight into the workplace, giving a younger generation the chance to build rewarding careers in the railway, whether that's in freight or passenger services.
"It's a move that will help secure the future of Great British Railways and the wider rail industry and ensure the workforce reflects the energy, talent and ambition of the next generation," he added.
The rail industry currently lacks diversity, with fewer than 4% of train drivers under 30 and only 11% women. Less than 13% of train drivers are from a minority ethnic background.
The government has stated it is hopeful that today's announcement (10 February 2026) will create opportunities for young people across Great Britain from different backgrounds, bringing the UK in line with other countries across the world, such as Switzerland, Germany and Australia.