What does a Bus Driver do?
Bus driver's are a group of skilled driver's in the transportation industry. Bus driver's can have a wide range of employers. They can be employed or contracted by schools, car rental companies, airports, malls, municipalities, and many many others. The primary role of a Bus Drive is to is transport people and cargo from one place to another. Often Bus driver's are assigned routes to follow daily. Depending on the size and location, Bus driver's are required to obtain various licensing and certifications.
While there are no education requirements for being a Bus Driver, most employers will require a High School Diploma. As well as a valid driver's license, there are additional classifications of licensing needed depending on the weight and type of vehicle. Smaller buses only require a class C driver's License. To drive full sizes buses, one will need to obtain a CDL (Commercial driver's License). Many of the larger employers will offer a contingent contract to help a candidate secure their CDL. A good driving record and road safety skills are needed to ensure success in this field.
- Perform beginning-shift vehicle inspections before departure
- Complete bus route on schedule while stopping at all stops
- Assist the disabled and elderly with embarking and disembarking
- Help with stowing luggage and bicycles
- Safely transport goods and passengers
- Report all mechanical issues to service manager immediately
- Obey all traffic laws
- Maintain a clean and sanitary bus at all times
- Some College (preferred)
- 6+ years driving on the road
- A valid driver's License
- A valid CDL (preferred)
- Air Brake certification (preferred)
- Less than 3 points on your license
- Able to occasionally lift 50 lbs
- 20/20 vision with or without glasses or contacts
- Willingness to submit to random drug screening
Bus Driver Salaries
Average Base Pay
Bus Driver Career Path
Learn how to become a Bus Driver, what skills and education you need to succeed, and what level of pay to expect at each step on your career path.
Years of Experience Distribution
Bus Driver Insights
Capital Trailways“The charters I drive are great and I get to meet so many amazing people.”
University of Georgia“Training to receive my CDL was very well run and I was paid for this time.”
Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority“Bus operators training program is excellent you will get your CDL B and passenger endorsement.”
Sparksman Transportation“In the beginning it was great I thought i was getting along well with management.”
Cumberland County School District“Some of the best reasons for working at CCSD is that you meet great people from all walks of life and interacting with the children.”
Septa“The entire job outside of pay is terrible and unsafe”
Spring Branch Independent School District“Hours are strenous and pay is not the best.”
National Express“No extra pay for weekends Overtime the same rate as normal pay No future prospects Dead end job Etc ………….”
Frequently asked questions about the role and responsibilities of a Bus Driver
When working as a Bus Driver, the most common skills you will need to perform your job and for career success are CDL, CPR First Aid, CPR Certified, English Language and Excellent Communication.
- Delivery Driver
- Driver
- Truck Driver
- Courier