School Bus Drivers
Overview
School bus drivers safely transport students to and from school, following strict schedules and safety protocols. They perform daily vehicle inspections, checking brakes, lights, and safety equipment, while using GPS systems and two-way radios to stay connected with dispatch. These drivers maintain order on the bus, assist younger students with boarding and crossing streets, and must be trained in first aid procedures. The job requires excellent defensive driving skills, patience, and a commitment to student safety in a community-focused work environment.
Did you know?
School bus drivers bear significant responsibility for the safety and well-being of children during transportation, requiring excellent attention to detail and defensive driving skills.
At a Glance
Median Wage
$45,761.37 Avg/yr
Growth
Stable
Top Skill
Active Learning
Key Responsibilities
- Check the condition of a vehicle's tires, brakes, windshield wipers, lights, oil, fuel, water, and safety equipment to ensure that everything is in working order.
- Escort small children across roads and highways.
- Prepare and submit reports that may include the number of students or trips, hours worked, mileage, or fuel consumption.
- Maintain knowledge of first-aid procedures.
- Report delays, accidents, or other traffic and transportation situations, using telephones or mobile two-way radios.
- Follow safety rules as students board and exit buses or cross streets near bus stops.
- Report delinquent student behaviors to school administration.
- Regulate heating, lighting, and ventilation systems for student comfort.
- Drive gasoline, diesel, or electrically powered multi-passenger vehicles to transport students between neighborhoods, schools, and school activities.
- Read maps and follow written and verbal geographic directions.
- Report any bus malfunctions or needed repairs.
- Record bus routes.
- Make minor repairs to vehicles.
- Maintain order among students during trips to ensure safety.
- Keep bus interiors clean for students.
- Comply with traffic regulations to operate vehicles in a safe and courteous manner.
- Pick up and drop off students at regularly scheduled neighborhood locations, following strict time schedules.
Career Considerations
Safety Responsibility
School bus drivers bear significant responsibility for the safety and well-being of children during transportation, requiring excellent attention to detail and defensive driving skills.
Licensing Requirements
Candidates must obtain a Commercial Driver's License (CDL) with passenger endorsement and pass extensive background checks and drug screenings mandated by federal and state regulations.
Seasonal Employment
Most school bus driver positions follow the academic calendar, resulting in reduced hours during summer months and potential need for supplemental income sources.