If you are looking for a high-paying, stable career that serves your community in Washington state, becoming a School Bus Driver is one of the best moves you can make. Washington is one of the top-paying states for this profession, with a median salary of $60,250 per year—significantly higher than the national average. The state employs over 9,000 of these essential professionals to navigate its diverse terrain, from the rainy streets of Seattle to the snowy passes of Spokane. This guide provides the definitive 5-step process for navigating Washington's specific OSPI training and CDL requirements to launch your career.

Where can I find School Bus Driver classes in Washington?

If you're interested in becoming a school bus driver in Washington, you can find school bus driver classes through Dreambound. Dreambound is the largest platform for students to find and compare vocational training programs. They offer a comprehensive CDL-B training program in Spokane, Washington.

Career Paths and Opportunities after Becoming a School Bus Driver

Becoming a school bus driver can be a rewarding career choice, but it doesn't have to be the end of the road. There are several career paths and opportunities available for school bus drivers who want to advance their careers or explore other areas within the transportation industry. Here are a few options to consider:

1. Lead Driver/Supervisor: Many school districts have lead driver or supervisor positions available, which involve overseeing and managing a team of school bus drivers. In this role, you would be responsible for coordinating routes, ensuring compliance with safety regulations, and providing training and support to other drivers.

2. Transportation Coordinator: Another career option is to become a transportation coordinator for a school district or transportation company. In this role, you would be responsible for managing the overall transportation operations, including scheduling routes, coordinating with schools, and ensuring compliance with safety regulations.

3. Fleet Manager: If you have a strong background in vehicle maintenance and operations, you may consider a career as a fleet manager. In this role, you would be responsible for managing and maintaining the fleet of school buses, overseeing repairs and maintenance, and ensuring compliance with safety standards.

4. School Administrator: Some school bus drivers choose to transition into administrative roles within the school system. This could involve becoming a school administrator, such as a principal or assistant principal, or working in other administrative positions within the school district.

5. Driving Instructor: If you enjoy teaching and sharing your knowledge and experience, you could become a driving instructor for aspiring school bus drivers. In this role, you would be responsible for providing training and instruction to individuals who are seeking their school bus driver certification.

6. Transit or Charter Bus Driver: If you enjoy driving and want to explore other areas within the transportation industry, you could consider becoming a transit or charter bus driver. These positions typically involve transporting passengers on fixed routes or for special events, such as weddings or tours.

These are just a few examples of the career paths and opportunities available to school bus drivers. The specific options may vary depending on your location and the transportation industry in your area. It's important to research and explore the opportunities available to you and make a decision based on your interests and career goals.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a School Bus Driver make in Washington?

Washington is one of the highest-paying states for this role. The median annual wage is $60,250, which is about $28.97 per hour. In high-cost areas like Seattle, wages can exceed $35 per hour.

Can you drive a school bus without a CDL in Washington?

No. You must have a CDL Class B (or A) with Passenger and School Bus endorsements to drive any vehicle designed to carry 16 or more passengers (including the driver) or any yellow school bus.

Do I have to pay for training?

In most cases, no. School districts in Washington are desperate for drivers and usually offer paid training, meaning you earn an hourly wage while you learn. Private CDL schools, however, can cost between $2,000 and $4,000.

What disqualifies you from being a school bus driver in WA?

You will be disqualified for recent DUIs, reckless driving convictions, certain felonies involving children or violence, or failing a drug test (marijuana use is disqualifying for CDL holders under federal law).

Final Thoughts

Becoming a school bus driver is a rewarding career choice for those who are passionate about ensuring the safety and well-being of students. By obtaining your school bus driver certification and following the necessary steps, you can embark on a career that allows you to make a positive impact on the lives of children.

Remember to check the specific requirements and procedures of your state or region for obtaining your school bus driver certification. Research school districts in your area and submit your application to increase your chances of landing a job as a school bus driver. And finally, consider the various career paths and opportunities available to you after becoming a school bus driver.

Whether you choose to advance within the transportation industry or explore other areas within the education system, there are plenty of options to consider. So, if you are interested in becoming a school bus driver, take the first step and start your journey towards a rewarding career today.

If you're thinking of a new career path, Dreambound offers in-depth guides to understand various job choices:

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