How to Become a School Bus Driver in California (2025)
If you're looking for a stable, community-focused career with excellent benefits and a schedule that works well for families, becoming a School Bus Driver in California is a fantastic choice. The state employs over 21,000 of these essential professionals who earn a median salary of $54,300 per year, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. This guide provides the definitive 5-step process for navigating California's specific CDL and endorsement requirements to launch your career ensuring the safety of the next generation.
How Long Does It Take to Become a School Bus Driver?
The process typically takes 6 to 8 weeks. This includes the time to complete the required 40 hours of training, study for your permit, and schedule and pass your CHP and DMV tests.
What About Licensing in California?
Yes, licensing is mandatory. You must hold a Commercial Driver's License (CDL) Class A or B issued by the California DMV. On top of that, you must have the (P) Passenger endorsement, the (S) School Bus endorsement, and a valid California Special Driver Certificate to legally operate a school bus.
Where to Find School Bus Driver Classes in California?
If you are interested in becoming a school bus driver and need to obtain the necessary training, Dreambound can help you find classes in California. Dreambound is the largest platform for students to find and compare vocational training programs.
You can visit Dreambound to explore their extensive database of vocational training programs. To find school bus driver classes in California, including Los Angeles, simply use their search feature.
Dreambound allows you to search for classes near your location, compare program details, read reviews from other students, and make an informed decision about your training options.
By using Dreambound, you can easily find the right school bus driver classes in California that meet your needs and start your journey toward becoming a school bus driver.
Career Paths and Opportunities after Becoming a School Bus Driver
Becoming a school bus driver can be a rewarding career choice, and it can also open up opportunities for growth and advancement in the field. Here are some potential career paths and jobs you may consider after becoming a school bus driver:
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Lead or Supervisor Roles: As you gain experience as a school bus driver, you may have the opportunity to take on leadership roles within your school district's transportation department. This could involve supervising other drivers, overseeing bus maintenance and scheduling, or managing the overall operations of the department.
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Training and Safety Coordinator: If you have a passion for safety and enjoy teaching others, you may consider a career as a training and safety coordinator. In this role, you would be responsible for developing and delivering training programs for new and existing school bus drivers. You would also be responsible for ensuring compliance with safety regulations and conducting regular safety inspections.
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School Transportation Director: With the right combination of experience, education, and leadership skills, you may aspire to become a school transportation director. In this role, you would be responsible for overseeing all aspects of the school district's transportation operations, including managing budgets, developing policies and procedures, and ensuring compliance with state and federal regulations.
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Transit or Charter Bus Driver: If you enjoy driving and want to explore other opportunities in the transportation industry, you may consider becoming a transit or charter bus driver. Transit bus drivers operate buses on fixed routes within a city or region, while charter bus drivers transport groups of passengers on prearranged trips. Both roles require a CDL and good driving record.
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Driver Trainer or Instructor: If you enjoy working with new drivers and have a knack for teaching, you may consider a career as a driver trainer or instructor. In this role, you would be responsible for training and mentoring new school bus drivers, helping them develop the necessary skills and knowledge to safely operate a school bus.
These are just a few examples of the career paths and opportunities that may be available to you after becoming a school bus driver. The specific opportunities will vary depending on your location, experience, and personal goals.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to become a school bus driver in California?
Becoming a school bus driver in California typically takes a few months. This includes the time to complete a high school diploma or equivalent, a state-approved school bus driver training program, and the process to obtain a commercial driver’s license (CDL) with a passenger endorsement, along with passing a background check and physical examination.
How much do school bus drivers make in California?
In California, the average school bus driver salary is $54,300 per year according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). This amount can vary based on factors like location, experience, and the specific employer.
Do you need a Class A license to drive a school bus in California?
No, you do not need a Class A license to drive a school bus in California. Instead, you need a commercial driver's license (CDL) with a passenger (P) endorsement and a school bus (S) endorsement to legally operate a school bus.
What do you need to do to become a school bus driver in California?
To become a school bus driver in California, you need a high school diploma or equivalent, complete a state-approved school bus driver training program, and obtain a commercial driver's license (CDL) with passenger and school bus endorsements. Additionally, you must pass a background check, a medical examination, and a drug screening to meet the state’s certification requirements.
Final Thoughts
Becoming a school bus driver can be a fulfilling and rewarding career choice. It allows you to make a positive impact on student's lives by ensuring their safe transportation to and from school. By following the necessary steps to obtain your school bus driver certification and actively searching for job opportunities, you can start your journey toward a career as a school bus driver.
Remember to research the specific requirements in your state or region, as they may vary from the general information provided in this article. Good luck on your journey to becoming a school bus driver!
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