How to Become a School Bus Driver in Virginia (2025)
If you're looking for a stable, community-focused career with excellent benefits and a schedule that fits a family lifestyle, becoming a School Bus Driver in Virginia is a fantastic choice. The state employs over 14,000 of these essential professionals who earn a median salary of $38,200 per year, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. This guide provides the definitive 5-step process for navigating Virginia's specific CDL and endorsement requirements to launch your career ensuring the safety of the next generation.
What About Licensing in Virginia?
Yes, licensing is mandatory. You must hold a Commercial Driver's License (CDL) Class B issued by the Virginia DMV. 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, annual in-service training is often required.
What are the requirements to become a School Bus Driver in Virginia?
To become a school bus driver in Virginia, you must meet certain education and legal requirements. These include:
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Age Requirement: The minimum age to become a school bus driver in Virginia is 21 years old.
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Driver's License: You must possess a valid driver's license with at least three years of driving experience.
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Commercial Driver's License (CDL): You need to obtain a CDL with a school bus endorsement. This requires passing a written exam and a skills test.
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Medical Examination: You must pass a physical examination conducted by a certified medical examiner to ensure you are physically fit to operate a school bus.
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Criminal Background Check: A background check is conducted to ensure you have a clean criminal record.
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Training: You must complete a school bus driver training program approved by the Virginia Department of Education. This program covers topics such as student management, emergency procedures, and defensive driving.
Where can I find School Bus Driver classes in Virginia?
Dreambound is the largest platform for students to find and compare vocational training programs, including school bus driver classes in Virginia. They offer a comprehensive list of approved training programs, including the CDL-B Training program in Richmond. You can easily find classes near you and compare different options to make an informed decision.
Career Paths and Opportunities after Becoming a School Bus Driver
Becoming a school bus driver can be a rewarding career in itself, but it can also open up opportunities for advancement and growth. Here are some potential career paths and opportunities that you may consider pursuing after becoming a school bus driver.
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Lead Driver or Trainer: As a school bus driver, you may have the opportunity to take on a leadership role as a lead driver or trainer. In this role, you would be responsible for training new drivers, overseeing and coordinating routes, and ensuring that all drivers are adhering to safety protocols.
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Transportation Supervisor: With experience and additional training, you may be able to advance to a role as a transportation supervisor. In this position, you would oversee the entire school transportation department, managing a team of drivers and ensuring that all transportation operations run smoothly.
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School Transportation Administrator: Another potential career path is to become a school transportation administrator. In this role, you would be responsible for managing and overseeing all aspects of the school transportation department, including budgeting, policy development, and long-term planning.
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School District Operations Manager: With further education and experience, you could potentially transition into a role as a school district operations manager. In this position, you would be responsible for managing the overall operations of the school district, including transportation, facilities, and other support services.
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Bus Company Owner/Operator: Some school bus drivers may choose to start their own bus company. This option allows for more flexibility and the opportunity to build a business from the ground up. However, starting a bus company requires careful planning, financial investment, and knowledge of the industry.
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Transition to Other Driving Careers: Becoming a school bus driver can also provide you with valuable experience and skills that can transfer to other driving careers. For example, you may consider becoming a commercial truck driver, a delivery driver, or a transit bus driver.
Frequently Asked Questions
What do you need to drive a school bus in Virginia?
To drive a school bus in Virginia, you need to be at least 21 years old, have a high school diploma or equivalent, and possess a valid driver's license with at least three years of driving experience. Additionally, you must obtain a Commercial Driver's License (CDL) with a school bus endorsement, pass a medical examination, and undergo a background check. Completing a state-approved training program is also required.
What are the benefits of being a school bus driver in Virginia?
Being a school bus driver in Virginia offers several benefits, including a stable job with regular hours, especially during the school year. Drivers often enjoy the opportunity to work independently and make a positive impact on students' daily lives. Additionally, the position typically includes a competitive salary, health benefits, and paid time off, making it a rewarding career choice.
How to become a school bus driver in Virginia?
To become a school bus driver in Virginia, you must first meet the basic requirements of being at least 21 years old, having a high school diploma, and holding a valid driver's license with three years of driving experience. You then need to obtain a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) with a school bus endorsement, complete a state-approved training program, and pass a medical examination and background check. Once these steps are completed, you can apply for school bus driver positions.
How much does a school bus driver make in Virginia?
As of May 2023, the average salary for a school bus driver in Virginia is approximately $46,800 per year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. This salary can vary based on factors such as experience, location, and the specific employer.
Final Thoughts
Becoming a school bus driver can be a fulfilling and rewarding career choice. By obtaining your school bus driver certification, you'll be equipped with the necessary skills and qualifications to safely transport students to and from school. From there, you can explore various job opportunities, advance in your career, and potentially even start your own bus company. Remember to always stay up-to-date with the latest requirements and regulations in your area, and don't hesitate to seek out additional training or education to further enhance your skills. Good luck on your journey to becoming a school bus driver!
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Stephanie Dayak is the go-to person for everything related to automation and integrations at Dreambound. As a Certified Tax Technician turned tech whiz, her sharp eye for detail and passion for efficiency become evident in every project she undertakes. When not solving tech puzzles, she's out exploring the local food scene, cozying up with her dogs, or plugged into a thought-provoking podcast. She's an ardent believer in mixing fun with functionality!
