That’s where CDC local specialists, such as driver trainer John Owen, come in to teach you everything you need to know about getting behind the wheel.

John joined the NT team in February, moving to Darwin from Adelaide, where his family is based after his wife found a job.

Like others in the CDC family, he’s had a varied career history, having worked in hardware, sales and with the sheriff’s office. He’d driven buses on and off for 40 years so was more than qualified, having first picked up a driving job after 10 years in the police force. He also drove trucks for the army reserve and military police.

Training a new driver from start to finish depends on driving ability and background, says John, with some taking more than a week, some in five days, and some fast-tracked through in only three.

The process is simple. It involves both theory and on-road training and is provided free of charge.

The on-road process tackles training on road positioning, negotiating roundabouts, U-turns, driving in heavy traffic, picking up and dropping off passengers at bus stops and by the roadside, looking after the bus, engine and brakes, reverse parking, and refuelling.

John has encountered many people from all walks of life during his time as a trainer. People come from backgrounds such as taxi and truck drivers, miners, teachers, police, mechanics, salespeople, and business owners.

“Many of those people already have great customer and life skills that will help them as a bus driver. “Transferable skills such as truck drivers, taxi and Uber drivers work well. Our training regime includes particulars for the bus industry, good driving habits and how to look after the bus,” he said.

He said while learning to drive a bus took time and patience, many become “very good” drivers in a short time.

“I tell all my trainees to drive with a purpose and not get too timid with the vehicle.

“Their mindset is that because the bus is so big, they will have difficulty driving the vehicle. Once they start to drive and get used to the size of the vehicle, they relax and drive as they would in their car. They just need to give themselves a little more room.”

Inspired to start working as a driver? Why not consider CDC’s work while you travel campaign. With fuel incentives to drive from town to town that won’t impact your pension, it’s an offer too good not to explore.*

To find out more about CDC, one of the country’s leading passenger transport operators and its new campaign, visit comfortdelgro.com.au/seniors.

*T&Cs apply.