The lack of bus and coach drivers is a global problem that inevitably affects mobility and the accessibility of public transport services. In Italy there is a shortage of more than 8,000 drivers, with a differing distribution and impact in the different areas (north, centre, south and the islands). Northern Italy is particularly affected, with 98% of companies reporting significant difficulties in finding drivers, according to a study by ANAV. At national level, the shortfall is 9.1%, a figure that seriously threatens the provision of public services in some areas of the country in the medium and long term. To encourage the recruitment of new drivers, it is necessary to put in place tools that promote real gender equality (currently only 16% of drivers are women) and to provide economic support to young people who face high costs to obtain a driving licence and a professional certificate. To reverse this trend, practical measures are needed to reduce the gap between education and the labour market and to address the mismatch between supply and demand. It is essential to review age limits and restrictions on licences, to reduce the cost of obtaining licences and professional qualifications, and to recognise non-EU qualifications, taking into account the potential for migration. In addition, the EU agenda includes favourable measures for the sector that need to be taken up and developed at national level to remove barriers and disincentives for those wishing to enter the profession. Initiatives to address the shortage of drivers must be accompanied by appropriate and structured legislative measures to ensure continuity and quality of service for users. It is essential to adopt measures to ensure the economic and financial sustainability of the public transport sector and to offer the LPT system a growth perspective, thus contributing to environmental sustainability and the fight against climate change.