How to Become a School Bus Driver in Indiana
If you enjoy working with children and value safety and community service, becoming a School Bus Driver in Indiana is a reliable and rewarding career. School bus drivers play a vital role in safely transporting students to and from school every day.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), School Bus Drivers in Indiana earn an average of $45,740 per year ($21.99 per hour). With consistent demand across school districts and private transportation companies, this career offers job security, benefits, and opportunities for advancement.
5. Apply for Positions
Once you’re licensed and certified, apply to local school districts or transportation companies. Many employers offer paid training and benefits.
Where Can I Find School Bus Driver Classes in Indiana?
Use Dreambound to find state-approved CDL and school bus driver training programs near you.
Dreambound lets you compare schools across Indiana — including cost, class length, and schedule — to help you choose the best fit. Training locations are available in major cities like Indianapolis, Fort Wayne, and Evansville.
How Do I Get My School Bus Driver Certification?
To become certified in Indiana:
- Pass the CDL written and skills tests.
- Complete the state’s school bus driver training program.
- Submit to a background check and drug test.
- Obtain the School Bus (S) endorsement.
- Register with your school district or employer for final approval.
Certification ensures you meet Indiana’s safety and professional standards for student transportation.
How Do I Get a Job as a School Bus Driver?
Follow these steps to start your career:
- Update Your Resume: Include your CDL, endorsements, and training records.
- Apply to Local Districts and Companies: Contact school transportation offices or apply through district websites.
- Network: Attend transportation career fairs or community job events.
- Prepare for the Interview: Showcase your reliability, patience, and commitment to safety.
- Complete Employer Training: Many schools offer paid route-specific training before you begin driving.
You can browse active job listings on MyNextMove.
Career Paths and Opportunities After Becoming a School Bus Driver
Once you gain experience, you can pursue roles such as:
- Lead Bus Driver: Oversee routes and mentor new drivers.
- Driver Trainer: Teach safety and compliance courses to new hires.
- Dispatcher: Coordinate routes and respond to emergencies.
- Transportation Supervisor: Manage operations and driver teams within a district.
- Fleet Manager or Administrator: Advance into logistics or management positions within school transportation.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much do school bus drivers make in Indiana?
The average annual salary is $45,740 ($21.99/hour) according to BLS, May 2024.
What is the hardest part of being a school bus driver?
Managing student behavior and maintaining focus during long routes are common challenges, requiring patience and situational awareness.
What is the highest-paid school bus driver?
Drivers in larger districts or private contracts can earn $60,000 + annually, especially those with seniority or supervisory roles.
Final Thoughts
Becoming a School Bus Driver in Indiana is a career that combines responsibility with community impact. With comprehensive training, a valid CDL, and a commitment to safety, you can build a stable career serving students and schools statewide.
Ready to get started?
Explore school bus driver training and CDL programs on Dreambound today and take your first step toward a meaningful transportation career.
Looking for a better fit? These other articles could be more in line with your expectations if this one isn't precisely what you had in mind:
Sunshine is a member of the School Growth team at Dreambound, where she assists students and schools with their billing and onboarding needs. She is a licensed mechanical engineer. Outside of work, she enjoys road trips with her family, discovering cozy cafes, and exploring her love for art.
