Join ASLEF

Become a member today

When you join ASLEF you gain from our strength and experience.

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The union offers numerous benefits to members - but it's not all one way: as a democratically run union, we welcome participation from members. Indeed, an active membership is what keeps us strong.

Members of ASLEF are part of a democratically controlled union and can expect equality and fairness along with the rights to:

  • receive regular information on ASLEF and its work
  • participate in branch meetings, discussions and educational activities arranged by the Society to ensure the right to freedom of association and trade union activity needs
  • stand for election to any union position subject to the requirements of rules
  • speak and vote on all questions at the branch
  • hold to account representatives elected on their behalf
  • raise questions about any matter at their branch
  • a right of appeal if disciplined by the Executive Committee
  • protection from harassment, sexual or racial abuse.

Benefits of membership

All new members will receive an information pack which includes their union membership badge and card. They also receive a copy of the ASLEF rule book, an ASLEF diary and details of services available to them as members.

  • legal assistance (subject to rule provisions) for accidents at work, injury by accident off duty (including dependants)
  • free initial legal advice and other legal services
  • distress and hardship benefit
  • access to membership services
  • representation.

More about membership

For more about ASLEF membership, see the following FAQs or get in touch with the membership team using the contact form.

What are ASLEF membership rates?

We adopt a three tier membership rating according to your grade/seniority. Payment is via Direct Debit for all new members.

Scale 1 - for members who are on salaries above £42,500

Scale 2 - for members who are on salaries between £31,000 and £42,499

Scale 3 - for members who are on salaries between £19,999 and £30,999

Scale 4 - for members who are on salaries less than £19,999

Who can be a member?

Any person in the line of promotion to train driver or train operator employed by any railway undertaking, a supervisor who has been so employed and staff involved in the operation of trains on light and private railways wishing to become members of this Society are eligible to join ASLEF.

We cannot undertake to accept employees not responsible for the operation of trains.

Why should I join ASLEF?

ASLEF can proudly state that it represents the overwhelming majority of train drivers/operators or associated grades in the country by virtue of its understanding of their particular problems and specialist needs. 

If you join ASLEF you will become part of a group of professional workers with a common interest.

What are members' responsibilities?

Members of ASLEF are expected to:

  • keep the Society updated with regard to changes of address, of their name, telephone number, employer, workplace, occupation/grade - all of this information can be vital especially when participating in ballots for industrial action
  • keep the union advised with regard to trade union studies completed and any credits or awards obtained
  • acquaint themselves with the policies of the union.

Retired members section renewals

The coronavirus crisis means that head office is unable to send out letters reminding RMS members, who pay annually by cheque, that your membership is up for renewal.

So if you know your renewal is due, please post a cheque, made payable to ASLEF, to head office in St John Street. An annual subscription is just £15.

Contact the membership team

Use the form below to get in touch.