Bus and lorry drivers face tough tests

ALL lorry and coach drivers will have to undergo a rigorous mandatory training programme before entering the transport profession.

Under new EU legislation, trainee drivers of large vehicles involved in the carriage of goods and passengers may have to complete 280 hours of training plus a knowledge test.

In addition, current professional drivers, who will be exempt from the initial qualification, will have to undergo periodic training of 35 hours every five years.