Key Points

• What is a School Bus Driver? A licensed professional responsible for safely transporting students to school and activities while maintaining order and vehicle safety.
• How to become a School Bus Driver in Mississippi? You must be at least 21 years old, obtain a Commercial Driver's License (CDL) Class B or C with "P" (Passenger) and "S" (School Bus) endorsements, and complete a Mississippi Department of Education approved certification course.
• Length of training for School Bus Driver: The process, including CDL training and the mandatory 8-hour state certification course, typically takes 4 to 8 weeks.
• Average School Bus Driver salary in Mississippi: The average salary for school bus drivers in Mississippi is approximately $32,210 per year ($15.49 per hour) (BLS, May 2023).
• Number of employment of School Bus Drivers in Mississippi: There are approximately 4,010 school bus drivers employed across the state (BLS, May 2023).

What is a School Bus Driver?

School bus drivers are responsible for safely operating a bus to transport students to and from school, as well as on field trips and other school-related activities. They must follow specific routes and schedules while adhering to traffic laws and ensuring the safety of the students on board.

The responsibilities of a school bus driver include:

• Conducting pre-trip inspections to ensure the bus is in good working condition.
• Adhering to traffic laws and driving safely at all times.
• Following assigned routes and schedules.
• Maintaining order and discipline among the students on the bus.
• Assisting students with getting on and off the bus safely.
• Reporting any incidents or issues to the appropriate authorities.

Where does a School Bus Driver work?

School bus drivers primarily work for school districts or private bus companies that provide transportation services to schools. They operate school buses within designated school districts or specific routes assigned by the school administration.

How to Become a School Bus Driver in Mississippi?

To become a school bus driver in Mississippi, one must first complete the required education, and obtain the necessary certification. The process involves completing a training program, passing a written exam, and obtaining a commercial driver's license with a passenger endorsement. Once certified, individuals can explore open school bus driver positions to start earning a competitive salary.

Requirements to Become a School Bus Driver in Mississippi

To become a school bus driver in Mississippi, you must meet certain requirements, including education and legal requirements. These requirements may vary slightly depending on the school district or bus company you wish to work for. Here are the general requirements:

• Education: A high school diploma or GED equivalent is typically required. Some school districts may also require additional training or coursework related to school bus driving.

• Driver's License: You must possess a valid Mississippi driver's license and have a clean driving record. Any history of DUI or serious traffic violations may disqualify you from becoming a school bus driver.

• Commercial Driver's License (CDL): A CDL with a school bus (S) endorsement is required. To obtain a CDL, you must pass both a written knowledge test and a skills test. The skills test includes a pre-trip inspection, basic vehicle control, and an on-road driving test.

• Background Check: You will be required to undergo a background check, including a criminal history check and a driving record check. Certain criminal convictions may disqualify you from becoming a school bus driver.

• Medical Exam: As part of the application process, you will need to undergo a medical examination to ensure you are physically capable of safely operating a school bus. This may include vision and hearing tests.

Where Can I Find School Bus Driver Classes in Mississippi?

If you are interested in becoming a school bus driver in Mississippi, Dreambound is the largest platform for students to find and compare vocational training programs. Dreambound offers a comprehensive CDL-B training program in Jackson, MS, which includes the necessary training to obtain a CDL with a school bus (S) endorsement.

By visiting the Dreambound, you can explore the CDL-B training program in Jackson, MS, and find more information about the class schedule, tuition fees, and enrollment process. Dreambound can help you find classes near you and guide you through the process of becoming a school bus driver in Mississippi.

Remember, being a school bus driver comes with great responsibility, as you will be entrusted with the safety and well-being of students. If you meet the requirements and are passionate about ensuring the safe transportation of students, pursuing a career as a school bus driver can be a fulfilling and rewarding choice.

Exploring a Career in Outside Mississippi

If you're aiming to pursue a career as a School Bus Driver but find yourself in a different state, remember, your goal is still within reach. You can explore opportunities to start your career as a School Bus Driver in places like Hawaii, Michigan, Ohio, South Dakota, or Wyoming. If these locations don't work for you, Dreambound simplifies the journey to becoming a School Bus Driver no matter where you live. By enabling you to find and compare School Bus Driver classes with a search by zip code, Dreambound empowers you to move forward confidently towards a rewarding career in trade, construction, and industry, regardless of your current location.

How do I get my School Bus Driver certification?

Becoming a certified school bus driver is a crucial step toward starting a career in this field. The certification process ensures that drivers are properly trained and equipped to handle the responsibility of transporting children safely. If you're interested in becoming a school bus driver, here's what you need to know about getting certified.

1. Check the requirements: The first step is to check the specific requirements set by your state or province. Each jurisdiction may have different criteria for becoming a school bus driver. In the state of Mississippi, for example, you must be at least 21 years old, possess a valid driver's license, have a clean driving record, and pass a criminal background check.

2. Complete a training program: Once you meet the basic requirements, you'll need to complete a training program that covers the necessary skills and knowledge for operating a school bus. These programs are typically offered by community colleges, vocational schools, or private driving schools. In Mississippi, the Department of Education provides a list of approved training programs that you can choose from.

3. Pass the written exam: After completing the training program, you'll need to pass a written exam to demonstrate your understanding of the rules and regulations governing school bus operations. This exam usually covers topics such as traffic laws, emergency procedures, and student management. It's important to study and prepare for the exam to increase your chances of success.

4. Obtain a commercial driver's license (CDL): In addition to the school bus endorsement, you'll need to obtain a commercial driver's license (CDL) to legally operate a school bus. The CDL requirements may vary depending on your state or province. In Mississippi, you'll need to pass a skills test that includes a pre-trip inspection, basic vehicle control, and an on-road driving test.

5. Pass a physical exam: As a school bus driver, you'll be responsible for the safety and well-being of the children you transport. To ensure that you're physically fit for the job, you'll need to pass a medical examination. This exam assesses your overall health, vision, hearing, and ability to perform essential job functions. It's important to maintain good health and address any medical conditions that may affect your ability to drive safely.

6. Complete the application process: Once you've met all the requirements, you'll need to complete the application process to obtain your school bus driver certification. This typically involves submitting an application form, providing supporting documents (such as your driver's license and training certificates), and paying the required fees. The application process may also include a background check and fingerprinting.

7. Undergo a probationary period: After obtaining your certification, you may be required to undergo a probationary period where your driving skills and performance will be closely monitored. This period allows your employer to assess your suitability for the role and address any areas that need improvement. It's important to take this opportunity to learn and grow as a school bus driver.

How do I get a job as a School Bus Driver?

Once you've obtained your school bus driver certification, you'll be ready to start looking for job opportunities in this field. Here are some steps to help you land a job as a school bus driver:

1. Research school districts and transportation companies: Start by researching school districts and transportation companies in your area. Look for job postings or contact their human resources departments to inquire about any available positions. Make a list of potential employers and gather information about their hiring processes and requirements.

2. Update your resume: Prepare a professional resume that highlights your relevant skills, qualifications, and experience. Include your school bus driver certification, CDL endorsement, and any additional training or certifications you may have. Emphasize your ability to handle the responsibilities of transporting children safely and efficiently.

3. Prepare for the interview: Before attending an interview, take the time to prepare and practice your responses to common interview questions. Be prepared to discuss your experience working with children, your knowledge of school bus safety regulations, and your ability to handle challenging situations. It's important to demonstrate your commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of the students you'll be transporting.

4. Demonstrate a clean driving record: As a school bus driver, you're expected to have a clean driving record. Make sure to provide a copy of your driving record when applying for a job. This will help employers assess your driving history and confirm that you meet their requirements.

5. Obtain any additional endorsements: Some school districts or transportation companies may require additional endorsements or certifications beyond the basic school bus driver certification. For example, you may need to obtain a passenger endorsement or a first aid/CPR certification. Check the specific requirements of the job you're interested in and obtain any necessary endorsements to increase your chances of getting hired.

6. Network and seek referrals: Networking is an effective way to find job opportunities in any field, including school bus driving. Reach out to friends, family, and acquaintances who may have connections in the education or transportation industry. Attend job fairs or industry events where you can meet potential employers and make a positive impression. Don't hesitate to ask for referrals or recommendations from people who know your work ethic and skills.

7. Apply for substitute positions: If you're having difficulty finding a full-time school bus driver position, consider applying for substitute positions. Substitute drivers often fill in for regular drivers who are absent or on vacation. This can be a great way to gain experience and make connections within the industry. It may also lead to a full-time position in the future.

Remember, landing a job as a school bus driver may take time and persistence. Stay proactive in your job search, be patient, and continue to improve your skills and qualifications. With determination and the right approach, you'll increase your chances of finding a rewarding career as a school bus driver.