Stages Become A Train Driver: Education, Training, And Certification

Stages became a train driver (Photo: Doc. Public Relations of PT KAI)

YOGYAKARTA - Career as a train driver is an attractive choice. A driver works with responsibility for the safety, smoothness and timeliness of train travel. So what are the stages like to become a train driver?

The rail machinist profession is not only required to master technical skills, but must also have trained physical and mental abilities. That is why the process of working as a train driver is not simple and must go through various processes.

As railway infrastructure is growing in Indonesia, the need for a professional driver is also increasing. This profession does not only promise in terms of salary or allowances, but also provides stability in the long term.

For those of you who are interested in this work, there are several stages to become a train driver that you must follow.

The process of becoming a train driver must go through stages that include education, training, and certification to ensure that a prospective driver is ready to carry out his duties.

The following is a complete guide regarding the stages of becoming a train driver in Indonesia.

The first step to become a machinist is to have a suitable educational background. In general, prospective drivers in Indonesia are expected to have at least a high school / vocational diploma with a vocational education background majoring in Mechanical Engineering, Electric Engineering, or Automotive Engineering.

Having an educational background as mentioned above will provide its own advantages for those interested in becoming machinists. The machinist profession is closely related to an in-depth understanding of the machine and rail work system that is widely studied in these majors.

After fulfilling the educational requirements, the next step is to register to be part of PT Kereta Api Indonesia (Persero) as the main operator of railway services in Indonesia. Registration is usually done online through the official KAI website when vacancies for the driver's position are opened.

This selection process involves several stages, including written tests, psychological tests, interviews, and medical tests. All of these stages are designed to ensure that prospective machinists not only have adequate knowledge, but also have mental and physical abilities that match professional demands.

After passing the selection process, prospective drivers will undergo intensive training at the Training Center managed by PT KAI. This training usually lasts for approximately 12 months and includes various materials, from theory to field practice.

Some of the materials taught include:

Prospective machinists will also be guided by experienced instructors who provide real simulations in the field. This exercise includes the operation of trains on different routes and various weather conditions to test the toughness and ability of prospective machinists.

After completing the training, prospective machinists must go through a certification process. This certification was issued by the Directorate General of Railways, Ministry of Transportation of the Republic of Indonesia. To obtain certification, prospective machinists must pass an exam that includes technical knowledge and operational skills.

This certificate is proof that prospective machinists have met the standards set by the government and have the ability to operate trains professionally and safely. Certification is also an absolute requirement to work as a driver in Indonesia.

After obtaining certification, prospective machinists will usually undergo an internship period under the supervision of experienced drivers. This internship period is an opportunity for them to gain direct field experience and learn more about the real situation they will face on the railway line.

This trade also helps prospective machinists deepen their understanding of various types of trains, including passenger trains, freight trains, and high-speed trains. Experience in this field is very important to hone skills and increase self-confidence in operating trains.

After successfully completing an internship period and getting sufficient experience, the prospective driver can finally be appointed as a full driver. As a professional driver, they will be responsible for operating trains, controlling train speed, monitoring engine systems, and maintaining good communication with other officers at stations and control centers.

This is the description of the stages of becoming a train driver that you need to know if you are interested in pursuing a career as a driver. To become a driver, the process needed includes appropriate education, intensive training, official certification, and adequate field experience. Also read the career path of the train driver at PT KAI.

Stay up to date with the latest domestic and other overseas news on VOI. We present the latest and updated information nationally and internationally.