Working as an ambulance driver is a popular career choice, and there is a good reason for this. Anyone working as a paramedic driver will proudly tell you that it is one of the most rewarding and fulfilling careers. Unlike the traditional office job where the workdays can quickly become monotonous, when you are an ambulance driver, each day is a new day on the job filled with fresh experiences. Thanks to the nature of the job, it offers you the perfect opportunity to learn more as you earn. However, just like any other job, there will be some lows along the way, but with even more incredible highs. Ambulance drivers have an unbridled level of teamwork and comradeship. You are able to create deep and strong bonds with your colleagues that last even way after you've left the job behind. In fact, most people consider working as an ambulance driver a calling rather than a job. And the current global pandemic has helped shed light on the contribution and importance of paramedics and ambulance drivers. This just might be the perfect time to begin your new career journey.

How Long Does It Take To Become An Ambulance Driver?

It is important to keep in mind that there are certain HGV training like qualifications required to become an ambulance driver. To begin with, all ambulance drivers are trained paramedics. This means that you are required to undergo certain relevant medical training. The training is typically done in parts, divided between traditional schooling and working part-time to gain practical experience and learn how to handle tough situations. The full paramedic driver training typically takes around 5 years to complete. But once you are done, you will qualify with either a degree or a diploma of higher education in paramedic science.

What Kind of Training Do I Need?

Besides all this medical training, you are also required to have the relevant HGV driver's license. Considering that ambulances are categorised as HGVs, you need to know how to operate them properly and safely. More specifically, you are required to have a C1 license that allows you to operate any vehicle weighing up to 7.5 tonnes - a modern ambulance typically weighs 5 tonnes. And, yes, every paramedic is required to get this license. If you choose to become a paramedic, you will be required to know how to drive an ambulance. Even though there won't be a fixed schedule, you will be asked to drive the ambulance at one point or the other. Thus, a C1 license is a standard requirement. By enrolling in a reputable driver training centre you will be able to fit your training around your paramedic training. Alternatively, you can apply for an intensive training course that gets you qualified within 5 days.

What If I Just Want To Drive An Ambulance?

Unfortunately, to become an ambulance driver, you are also required to be a qualified ambulance care assistant. This can include being an emergency care assistant, patient transport driver, paramedic, or ambulance technician. Thus, when you choose a career as an ambulance driver, you'll be able to do more than just drive ambulances. Those working in the emergency side of ambulance work are also involved in the direct assessment and treatment of patients. Therefore, you need to be both fully medically trained and driver trained. If anything else, those in the patient transport service should be able to assist patients to get in and out of the vehicle, and also have knowledge of first aid and safe transportation.