What does a Bus Driver do?

Bus drivers work for school districts, public transportation authorities, private tour providers and other types of employers. When they perform their assigned Bus Driver duties proficiently, they ensure passenger satisfaction and encourage repeat business. Their responsibilities related to vehicle inspections and cleaning help to keep bus fleets in good condition, reducing the risk of emergency breakdowns that can lead to service disruptions and more costly repairs. By adhering to traffic rules and maintaining order, a Bus Operator ensures passenger and public safety.

Bus Driver skills and qualifications

Having a strong set of skills can help a Bus Driver perform their assigned duties successfully. Some qualifications to consider listing in your job description for Bus Driver positions include:

• Familiarity with the parts and systems of buses
• Knowledge of traffic laws and regulations
• Safe driving record
• Active listening skills to hear instructions from dispatch
• Observation skills to identify problems with vehicles
• Memorization skills to learn and recall routes
• Basic math skills to calculate fares and collect payments

Bus Driver experience requirements

How much experience you should list as a requirement in your Bus Operator job description depends largely on your staffing needs. A Bus Driver can learn how to perform their job duties through new employee training, so in many cases, candidates with no previous work experience may be able to perform well in the role. If you’re short-staffed and need your new operator to start working independently quickly, you may wish to add one or more years of previous work experience to your Bus Driver job description.

Bus Driver education and training requirements

Although there are typically no formal education requirements for Bus Drivers, prospective candidates must typically hold a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) with a passenger (P) endorsement, issued by their state before operating buses. Those who drive school buses may also need to obtain a special (S) endorsement.

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) requires those seeking a CDL with a P or S endorsement for the first time to complete a minimum number of hours of classroom-based and field training and to pass both written and driving tests prior to licensing.

Some employers choose to provide the training necessary to obtain CDL licensing and the necessary endorsements to new hires. Others opt to list already holding a valid CDL license as a requirement in their job description for Bus Driver positions.

Job description samples for similar positions

If the details of this Bus Operator job description don’t fully align with your open position, consider these related job titles:

• School Bus Driver
• CDL Driver
• Owner Operator
• Dispatcher

Bus Driver job description FAQs

What qualities make for a good Bus Driver?

Enjoying driving is an important quality for a Bus Driver because they spend most of their days behind the wheel. The ability to remain calm in stressful situations and to stay vigilant and alert for long periods can be beneficial for drivers. In addition, being able to work independently and manage conflict are good traits for Bus Operators

Do Bus Driver duties vary based on employer type?

Yes, Bus Driver duties do vary depending on their employers. A Bus Driver who works for a company that provides interstate charter services may be responsible for refueling and performing emergency repairs and maintenance while on trips. Operators who work for public transportation services and provide local transportation may need to modify routes or take on extra stops when issues arise. School Bus Drivers must monitor student behavior and may need to handle student disciplinary issues.

How can I call attention to my job description for Bus Driver positions?

Adding a list of top benefits of working for your company can attract attention to your Bus Driver job description. Include things like paid on-the-job training, employee benefits, flexible scheduling, overtime opportunities and uniform allowances.

Who does a Bus Driver report to?

Who a Bus Driver reports to depends largely on the size of their employer. A large company may have several Bus Driver Supervisors who oversee teams of drivers. At smaller companies, an Assistant Transportation Manager or Transportation Manager may serve as the direct supervisor.