Transport & Logistics

How to become a School Bus Driver

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

Time to get there

4–10 weeks

Typical pay

$34k–$48k

Starting from

No experience

Pay is an estimate of typical US entry-level pay for this role and varies by state, employer and shift. The timeline assumes you are starting from no experience and includes any licence or programme legally required — not just course length.

The route

1. 1

   4–8 weeks

   Get a CDL Class B with endorsements

   Passenger and school-bus endorsements, plus a clean driving record. Districts often pay for it.

   ◆ CDL Class B (P and S endorsements)

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

   2–4 weeks

   Pass the background and physical

   Fingerprinting, DOT physical and drug screen. Any child-safety flag is disqualifying.

3. 3

   2–4 weeks

   Complete district training

   Route training, evacuation drills and student management — paid.

4. 4

   1–2 weeks

   Take a route

   Split shifts with the middle of the day free. Summers off, which is the trade-off for the hours.

5. ✓

   Destination

   School Bus Driver

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