Poland bus and coach driver shortage

Poland is experiencing a significant shortage of bus and coach drivers, with a deficit projected across 222 counties. The labor gap is driven by an aging workforce, where the average driver age exceeds 50, and a lack of candidates possessing necessary professional qualifications like Category D licenses. Other contributing factors include irregular hours and high levels of responsibility.

To address the shortage, transport carriers have begun increasing wages, with some major city offers reaching up to 9,200 PLN net, and some companies offering to finance driving courses.

Industry experts warn that the shortage threatens public mobility and local economies. Jerzy Michalak, president of Polbus-PKS, noted that the lack of personnel could lead to service cuts, increased ticket prices, and heightened transport exclusion for residents who rely on public transit for work, school, or medical needs. This local crisis mirrors broader European trends, where the driver deficit is projected to grow significantly by 2028.