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.

What responsibilities are common for Bus Driver jobs?
  • 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
What are the typical qualifications for Bus Driver jobs?
  • 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
Education--
Work/Life Balance
2.9 ★
Salary Range--
Career Opportunity
3.1 ★
Avg. Experience8+ years

Bus Driver Salaries near United Kingdom

Average Base Pay

£33,779 /yr
Not including cash compensation
See More Insights
Not enough salaries reported to show distribution
See More Insights
Glassdoor Estimated Salary

Bus Driver Insights

Read what Bus Driver professionals have to say about their job experiences and view top companies for this career.
Capital TrailwaysCapital Trailways
Charter Bus Driver
7 Feb 2023

“The charters I drive are great and I get to meet so many amazing people.”

Washington Metropolitan Area Transit AuthorityWashington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority
Bus Operator
16 Sept 2022

“Bus operators training program is excellent you will get your CDL B and passenger endorsement.”

University of GeorgiaUniversity of Georgia
Student Bus Operator
6 Jun 2022

“Training to receive my CDL was very well run and I was paid for this time.”

Sauk-Suiattle Indian TribeSauk-Suiattle Indian Tribe
Transit Bus Driver
14 Jun 2023

“Staff was friendly and it was a fun job and I got to help others.”

East Stroudsburg Area School DistrictEast Stroudsburg Area School District
Shuttle Bus Driver
13 Jul 2023

“The pay rate should be better based on the liability and responsibility that is required.”

Cumberland County School DistrictCumberland County School District
Bus Drivers
20 Dec 2022

“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.”

SeptaSepta
Bus Operator
7 Jun 2023

“The entire job outside of pay is terrible and unsafe”

National ExpressNational Express
Bus Driver
23 Oct 2022

“No extra pay for weekends Overtime the same rate as normal pay No future prospects Dead end job Etc ………….”

See More

Bus Driver Interviews

Bus Driver jobs