How to Become a School Bus Driver in Wisconsin (2025)
If you are looking for a stable, community-focused career with excellent benefits and a schedule that fits a family lifestyle, becoming a School Bus Driver in Wisconsin is a fantastic choice. The state is actively recruiting to fill a shortage of drivers, offering a median salary of $49,600 per year—significantly higher than the national average. This guide provides the definitive 5-step process for navigating Wisconsin's specific Department of Transportation (WisDOT) and CDL requirements to launch your career ensuring the safety of the next generation.
What About Licensing in Wisconsin?
Yes, licensing is mandatory. You must hold a Commercial Driver's License (CDL) Class B or C issued by the Wisconsin 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.
Requirements to Become a School Bus Driver in Wisconsin
To become a school bus driver in Wisconsin, you need to fulfill certain education and legal requirements. These requirements include:
- Age Requirement: You must be at least 18 years old to obtain a Commercial Driver's License (CDL) in Wisconsin.
- Education: A high school diploma or GED equivalent is typically required.
- Driver's License: You must possess a valid Wisconsin driver's license.
- CDL: You need to obtain a CDL with a school bus endorsement, which requires passing a written knowledge test and a skills test.
- Background Check: A background check, including criminal and driving records, may be conducted.
- Medical Examination: You must pass a medical examination to ensure you are physically capable of operating a school bus.
School Bus Driver Classes in Wisconsin
If you're looking to become a school bus driver in Wisconsin, Dreambound is the largest platform for students to find and compare vocational training programs. Dreambound offers comprehensive school bus driver training classes in Wisconsin, including CDL-B training.
Dreambound's CDL-B training program in Madison, WI, prepares aspiring school bus drivers for the CDL written knowledge and skills tests. By enrolling in this program, you can acquire the necessary skills and knowledge to start your career as a school bus driver.
To find school bus driver classes near you, explore Dreambound's CDL-B training program in Madison, WI.
Remember, becoming a school bus driver requires meeting certain requirements and obtaining the necessary training. By taking advantage of Dreambound's resources, you can kickstart your journey towards becoming a school bus driver in Wisconsin.
Career Paths and Opportunities after Becoming a School Bus Driver
Becoming a school bus driver can open up various career paths and opportunities within the transportation industry. Here are a few options to consider:
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Bus Company Supervisor: With experience and additional training, you could become a bus company supervisor, overseeing a team of school bus drivers. This role involves managing schedules, ensuring compliance with regulations, and overseeing driver training and development.
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Transportation Manager: As a transportation manager, you would be responsible for overseeing the transportation operations of a school district or private school. This includes managing bus routes, coordinating schedules, and ensuring compliance with safety regulations.
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Driver Trainer: If you enjoy teaching and have excellent driving skills, you could become a driver trainer. In this role, you would be responsible for training new school bus drivers and providing ongoing training and support to existing drivers.
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Fleet Manager: As a fleet manager, you would be responsible for managing a fleet of school buses. This involves overseeing maintenance and repairs, managing fuel and vehicle inventory, and ensuring compliance with safety regulations.
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Dispatcher: As a dispatcher, you would be responsible for coordinating the scheduling and routing of school buses. This involves communicating with drivers, monitoring routes, and responding to any issues or emergencies that may arise.
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Transit Operator: If you enjoy driving and want to explore other transportation options, you could consider becoming a transit operator. Transit operators are responsible for driving buses or other forms of public transportation, such as trains or trams, and transporting passengers to their destinations.
These are just a few examples of the career paths and opportunities that may be available to you after becoming a school bus driver. The specific options will depend on your skills, interests, and the opportunities available in your area.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a School Bus Driver make in Wisconsin?
The median annual wage for a School Bus Driver in Wisconsin is $49,600, or about $23.84 per hour. Wages can be significantly higher in metro areas like Madison and Milwaukee.
Can you drive a school bus without a CDL in Wisconsin?
No. Federal and state law strictly requires a Commercial Driver's License (CDL) with specific endorsements to drive a school bus.
What disqualifies you from being a school bus driver in WI?
Disqualifications include certain felony convictions (especially those involving children or violence), a history of OWI (Operating While Intoxicated) in the last 2 years, or having a suspended license.
Do I have to pay for training?
In most cases, no. Because there is a driver shortage, most companies and districts offer paid training, meaning you earn an hourly wage while you learn to drive.
Final Thoughts
Becoming a school bus driver can be a rewarding career choice for those who enjoy working with children and have a passion for transportation. By obtaining the necessary certification, completing any required training, and actively seeking job opportunities, you can start your journey towards a fulfilling career as a school bus driver.
Remember to always prioritize the safety and well-being of the students you are responsible for, and continuously strive to improve your skills and knowledge in the field. With dedication and hard work, you can succeed and potentially explore various career paths within the transportation industry.
Dreambound offers a window into various career paths, so if you're considering a shift in your career, browse through these articles:
Winlynd Caballero is a member of Dreambound's Sales team. She helps in handling the company's finullcial transactions, generating reports, and school sales. Beyond her responsibilities in the realm of numbers and business, Winlynd finds herself deeply immersed in a world of art and music.
