Why German Transport Companies Are Asking Students to Drive Trams?

In cities across Germany, transport companies are increasingly relying on student workers to fill staff shortages. With flexible schedules and attractive pay, students are stepping in as tram drivers, supporting the public transportation system in places like Mannheim, Dresden, and Nuremberg.

Students Behind the Wheel

Marleen Quurk, a 26-year-old university student, is one of these student drivers. During her semester break, she operates a Rhein-Neckar-Verkehrsgesellschaft (RNV) tram in Mannheim. Quurk notes the difference between driving a tram and a car, explaining, “Because you don’t have the opportunity to avoid obstacles, you have to take a very forward-looking view.” Under the supervision of a driving instructor, she navigates the streets, learning the ropes of this unique job.

RNV has been employing students as tram drivers since the 1990s. Originally, this was a temporary solution to fill gaps in the work schedule. However, as the shortage of workers has become more pressing, the initiative has expanded. Now, the aim is not only to fill immediate vacancies but also to engage potential long-term employees early in their careers. In addition to Mannheim, cities like Ludwigshafen, Dresden, Magdeburg, and Nuremberg have also adopted this approach.

Support from Unions and Associations

The use of student drivers has received broad support from unions and business associations. A spokesperson for the Verdi trade union emphasized that additional workers help relieve the burden on the permanent staff. For example, with more trained drivers available, regular employees are less likely to be called in on their days off. The Association of German Transport Companies has echoed this sentiment, acknowledging that “staff is scarce, and every lever is being pulled to adapt to shortages.” The passenger association Pro Bahn also backs the initiative, provided that the training of new drivers is thorough and comprehensive.

Rigorous Training for Students

In Mannheim, student drivers undergo an intensive two-month training program. This training covers essential skills, including reading and following signals, braking, and controlling trams that weigh several tons. This training is identical to that given to career changers later in life. According to driving instructor Thierry Erbert, students often progress more quickly because they are already in an academic mindset.

To qualify as a tram driver, students must be at least 21 years old, possess a class B driver’s license with no penalties, and have a clean police clearance certificate. They must also pass hearing and vision examinations to ensure they meet the necessary physical requirements.

A Unique Opportunity

For Marleen Quurk, driving a tram is “something extraordinary.” Originally from Lübeck, she is now exploring Mannheim through her work. The income is another significant benefit. Starting wages for tram drivers are €18.56 per hour, with additional bonuses for night shifts, holidays, and Christmas. The training is fully paid, reflecting the high level of responsibility and concentration required for the job. With trams reaching speeds of up to 80 kilometers per hour and requiring about 90 meters to stop, quick reactions and full concentration are essential.

Quurk is open to continuing as a tram driver in the future, possibly alongside an office job. With a family background in public transportation—her brother and grandfather were both bus drivers—she feels a strong connection to the profession. “My family is thrilled,” she says, as she considers the possibility of making tram driving a part of her long-term career.

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