School Bus Driver Requirements

by Contributing Writer

Overview

Almost half a million school bus drivers were employed in the U.S. in 2006.

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Every day, parents across the U.S. place their children in the care of perfect strangers for their commute to school. Because their cargo is so precious, school bus drivers are often held to a higher standard than other transportation employees.
Federal Regulations

According to federal law, school bus drivers are required to hold a Commercial Drivers License, with passenger endorsement. They must also possess a clean driving record.

Age Requirement

School bus drivers are typically required to be 18 years of age or older.
Job Training

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, most school bus drivers receive between one week and one month of training. Training involves classroom study of local and state laws, driver-pupil relations, first aid, and evacuation procedures as well as time driving on a closed course.
Medical Exam

Some states require drivers to pass a medical examination before being allowed to drive a school bus.
Moral Character

Because bus drivers are in constant contact with children, some states also require drivers to demonstrate good moral behavior. This varies from state to state.