How to Become a School Bus Driver in Louisiana (2025)
If you're looking for a stable, family-friendly career in Louisiana that serves your community, becoming a School Bus Driver is a fantastic option. The state employs over 10,000 of these essential professionals who earn a median salary of $34,500 per year, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. This guide provides the definitive 5-step process for navigating Louisiana's specific CDL and endorsement requirements to launch your career ensuring the safety of the next generation.
What About Licensing in Louisiana?
Yes, licensing is mandatory. You must hold a Commercial Driver's License (CDL) Class B issued by the Louisiana Office of Motor Vehicles (OMV). On top of that, you must have both the (P) Passenger endorsement and the (S) School Bus endorsement on your license to legally operate a school bus. Additionally, all drivers must be certified by the Louisiana Department of Education annually.
What are the requirements to become a School Bus Driver in Louisiana?
To become a school bus driver in Louisiana, you must meet certain education and legal requirements. These include:
- Age: You must be at least 21 years old.
- Driver's License: You must possess a valid Louisiana driver's license.
- Clean Driving Record: Your driving record should be free of major violations, such as DUI convictions.
- Background Check: You will be required to pass a criminal background check.
- Physical Exam: You must undergo a physical examination to ensure you are physically fit to drive a school bus.
- CDL License: You must obtain a Commercial Driver's License (CDL) with a school bus endorsement. This involves passing a written knowledge test and a skills test.
Where can I find School Bus Driver classes in Louisiana?
The best place to find training is directly through your local Parish School District. Almost all districts in Louisiana (like Caddo, Calcasieu, Lafayette) have their own training programs. However, if you want to get your CDL independently, Dreambound can help you find private CDL schools. Dreambound's platform allows you to search, filter, and connect with a vast network of career training partners.
Career Paths and Opportunities after Becoming a School Bus Driver
Becoming a school bus driver can be a rewarding career choice, but it's also important to consider the opportunities for career growth and advancement. Here are some potential career paths and opportunities that may be available to you after becoming a school bus driver:
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Lead or supervisory roles: As a school bus driver, you may have the opportunity to advance into a lead or supervisory role. In these positions, you would be responsible for overseeing a team of drivers, ensuring compliance with safety regulations, and managing day-to-day operations. This can be a great opportunity for those who enjoy leadership and management responsibilities.
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Driver trainer or instructor: If you have a passion for teaching and mentoring others, you may be able to transition into a role as a driver trainer or instructor. In this role, you would be responsible for training new drivers, conducting refresher training for experienced drivers, and ensuring that all drivers are up to date on the latest safety regulations and procedures.
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Special needs transportation: Some school districts have specialized transportation programs for students with special needs. If you have an interest in working with special needs students, you may be able to transition into a role as a special needs bus driver. This can be a rewarding and fulfilling career path that allows you to make a difference in the lives of these students.
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Transportation management: Another potential career path after becoming a school bus driver is to move into transportation management. In this role, you would be responsible for overseeing the entire transportation department for a school district or transportation company. This can involve managing bus routes and schedules, coordinating driver training and certifications, and ensuring compliance with safety regulations.
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Entrepreneurship: If you have an entrepreneurial spirit, you may consider starting your own school bus transportation business. This can be a challenging endeavor, but it can also provide you with the opportunity to be your own boss and build a successful business.
It's important to note that the availability of these career paths and opportunities may vary depending on the specific school district and region you're in. However, by staying proactive and seeking out opportunities for professional development and advancement, you can increase your chances of finding a fulfilling and rewarding career in the field of school bus transportation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you drive a school bus without a CDL in Louisiana?
No. Federal and state law strictly requires a Commercial Driver's License (CDL) with specific endorsements to drive a school bus.
How much is CDL school in Louisiana?
Private CDL schools can cost $3,000 to $5,000. However, most school districts offer free training and may even pay you while you train.
What disqualifies you from getting a CDL in Louisiana?
Disqualifications include certain felony convictions, a history of DUI/DWI, leaving the scene of an accident, or having a suspended license.
How much does a School Bus Driver make in Louisiana?
The median annual wage for a School Bus Driver in Louisiana is $34,500, or about $16.59 per hour.
Final Thoughts
Becoming a school bus driver can be a fulfilling and rewarding career choice. Not only do you have the opportunity to play a vital role in the education and safety of students, but you also have the potential for career growth and advancement. By obtaining the necessary certification, preparing a strong resume, and actively seeking out job opportunities, you can increase your chances of finding a job as a school bus driver. Once you're in the field, there are a variety of career paths and opportunities that you can explore to further your professional growth. So if you have a passion for driving and a desire to make a positive impact on the lives of students, consider pursuing a career as a school bus driver.
If you're considering a career shift or curious about different professional paths, Dreambound has written many guides to help you in making informed decisions. Here are a few:
Alyssa Jane is part of the customer success team at Dreambound. She works with students, training providers, and employers, helping them have a smooth customer journey. She is also an ESL tutor and Licensed Psychometrician. She is fond of traveling, photography, and discovering new restaurants.
