Transport & Logistics

How to become a Bus Driver

From no experience: every step, how long it takes, and the credential it earns.

Time to get there

4–8 weeks

Typical pay

$40k–$58k

Starting from

No experience

The steps

1. 1

   Get a CDL with passenger endorsement

   Class B plus P; school routes also need the S endorsement.

   4–8 weeksCDL Class B (P/S)

   Course that covers thisPractice Tests for CDL General Knowledge 2026 Class A, B & CUdemy · around $19.99 →
2. 2

   Pass the DOT physical and background check

   Standard for carrying passengers, stricter for schools.

   2–4 weeks

3. 3

   Complete route training

   Paid, with an instructor, before you take a route alone.

   2–6 weeks

Course links are Udemy affiliate links — we earn a commission if you buy, at no extra cost to you. Licences and exams named above are issued by state boards and certifying bodies we have no relationship with; we list them because they are what the job actually requires.