Traffic wardens are responsible for making sure that traffic and parking laws and regulations are observed, they:

• monitor the use of parking meters, controlled parking zones and one-way systems
• check for infringements of waiting restrictions and restrictions on the loading and unloading of goods
• report parking offences
• issue fixed penalty notices to offenders
• check that vehicles are displaying current motor vehicle licences (tax discs)
• assist the police in keeping a look out for stolen vehicles
• arrange for vehicles to be clamped, or removed by the police to a parking pound if necessary.

Some police forces have extended the role of traffic wardens, to cover moving traffic offences and deal with antisocial behaviour. This can mean combining the role of traffic warden with that of community support officer (see Police Community Support Officer profile).

Traffic wardens may occasionally be required to appear in court to give evidence against offenders.

Hours and Environment

Traffic wardens usually work between 6.30am and 8pm. It is normal to work around 37 hours a week on a shift system, which will include weekends.

The work is outdoors in all weather conditions, in the dust, noise and fumes of traffic. Traffic wardens spend most of the day on their feet.

The specific area in which wardens work may change daily, so it may be necessary to have a driving licence.

A full uniform is provided. In most cases, traffic wardens are equipped with a personal radio in case of emergency.

Skills and Interests

To be a traffic warden you should:

• have a positive attitude to the job
• be assertive and have common sense
• have initiative to cope with unexpected situations
• be able to understand and apply written and spoken instructions
• be able to think clearly and react sensibly under pressure
• have patience, tact and a sense of humour
• have a good level of fitness
• be able to form good working relationships with the police and other colleagues.

Entry

Exact requirements vary from area to area. Traffic wardens are employed by local police forces, so you should contact your local force for details of their requirements.

No formal educational qualifications are required in most areas, although some employers may ask for GCSEs (A-C)/S grades (1-3), including English, or equivalent. Applicants often have to pass a written entrance test in English, and in some areas there may also be a maths test. 

This type of work is suitable for older entrants, as it requires maturity and evidence of the ability to deal with the public and with difficult situations.

You should be in good health and may be required to take a medical examination. Good eyesight is necessary (glasses and contact lenses are acceptable). Visible tattoos are usually not acceptable. Some employers insist that applicants are British citizens and/or live in the local area.

Training

Much of the training is on the job, under the supervision of an experienced colleague. Training may sometimes be from a police officer.

Traffic wardens are usually taught:

• traffic regulations
• how to complete and issue tickets for parking offences
• methods of note taking and writing short reports
• techniques of giving evidence in court
• basic short first aid.

In many areas a special introductory course is arranged for a large intake. In major cities, you would attend a training course at a police training centre.

Training is also provided for extra duties, such as handling anti-social behaviour. Some forces train traffic wardens in dealing with aggressive motorists.

Opportunities

The number of openings for traffic wardens is decreasing as more local authorities are taking over the responsibility for enforcing parking regulations from the police force. These authorities employ parking attendants who have similar, but narrower, areas of responsibility (see the Parking Attendant profile).

Vacancies may be advertised by local jobcentres or in the local press. Alternatively, contact local police forces for details of current opportunities.

In some other areas the duties of parking attendants and traffic wardens have been merged into one force of privately-employed wardens.

Career prospects vary according to area and may be limited in areas where few wardens are employed. Progression is based on ability and experience, and traffic wardens may be promoted to senior grades, such as traffic warden supervisor or manager.

Annual Income

Figures are intended as a guideline only.

Traffic wardens usually earn between £14,000 and £16,000 a year.

Shift allowances are paid in most areas.

Further information