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Bus Driver Bus Driver Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Bus Driver

Lemoore, CA · On-site

$25.85 - $31.78/hr

BUS DRIVER Under the direct supervision of the Transportation Supervisor, to do cleaning, fueling and driving; ability to follow verbal and written directions and to work cooperatively with others ...

Bus Driver

Woodland, CA · On-site

$18 - $24.75/hr

Bus Driver Qualifications: * High School Diploma * CDL and school bus endorsement * DOT physical * S.T.O.P. class completed within 1st year of employment and each year after * Safe driving record ...

Bus Driver

Weed, CA · On-site

$38.53/hr

Commercial Driver's License (CDL): Must possess a valid Commercial Driver's License (CDL), typically Class A or B, with a Passenger (P) endorsement (and a School Bus (S) endorsement for school ...

Bus Driver

Camarillo, CA · On-site

$25.72 - $28.37/hr

Possession of a valid California School Bus Driver Certificate. Class B driver's license with passenger endorsement. Valid First Aid and CPR certificates. Maintain in-service hours and classroom time ...

Bus Driver

Windsor, CA · On-site

$22.68 - $25/hr

BUS DRIVER DEFINITION: Under the direct supervision of the Transportation Supervisor, performs the necessary duties to safely operate a school bus over designated routes to transport children.

General Responsibilities Seeking both Regular and Substitute School Bus Drivers to drive routes, sports and field trips, as assigned. Specific Responsibilities * Safely transport students to/from ...

Bus Driver

Roseville, CA · On-site

$26.99 - $32.81/hr

Bus Driver DESCRIPTION OF BASIC RESPONSIBILITIES To operate a school bus over designated routes for the purpose of transporting students. SUPERVISOR: Superintendent TYPICAL DUTIES: 1. Under direction ...

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Bus Driver Bus Driver information

See California salary details

$8

$19

$28

How much do bus driver bus driver jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for bus driver bus driver in California is $19.55, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.15 and $22.07 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Bus Driver, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Bus Driver, you need a valid commercial driver’s license (CDL), a clean driving record, and a solid understanding of traffic laws and safety regulations. Familiarity with GPS navigation systems, vehicle inspection procedures, and sometimes first aid certification are typically required. Excellent customer service, patience, and strong communication skills help build rapport with passengers and handle challenging situations. These skills ensure safe, efficient transportation and a positive experience for all riders.

What disqualifies you from being a bus driver?

Disqualifications for a bus driver typically include having a valid commercial driver's license (CDL) with the appropriate endorsements, a clean driving record, and passing background checks and drug tests. Additionally, candidates must meet health and vision requirements and often need to pass a physical exam and skills test; a history of serious traffic violations or criminal offenses can also disqualify applicants.

What is the highest paying bus driver?

The highest paying bus drivers are often those who work for private charter companies, transit agencies in high-cost regions, or specialized sectors such as school bus drivers with additional certifications. Experienced drivers with commercial driver's licenses (CDL) and seniority tend to earn higher wages, sometimes exceeding $60,000 annually depending on location and employer.

What are some common challenges bus drivers face during their shifts, and how are they usually addressed?

Bus drivers often encounter challenges such as managing tight schedules, dealing with traffic congestion, and ensuring passenger safety in various weather conditions. They may also need to handle difficult passenger interactions or unexpected mechanical issues. Transit agencies typically provide training on conflict resolution, defensive driving, and emergency procedures to help drivers navigate these situations. Support from dispatchers and maintenance teams is also available to assist drivers if problems arise during their route.

How much do school bus drivers make?

School bus drivers in North Carolina typically earn an average hourly wage of around $14 to $16, with annual salaries ranging from approximately $25,000 to $33,000. Wages can vary based on experience, certification, and the school district, and drivers often need a commercial driver's license (CDL) with passenger and school bus endorsements.

What is the difference between Bus Driver Bus Driver vs School Bus Driver?

AspectBus Driver Bus DriverSchool Bus Driver
CredentialsCommercial Driver's License (CDL)Commercial Driver's License (CDL) with school bus endorsement
Work EnvironmentPublic transit, charter, or private transportationSchool campuses, student transportation
Employer & IndustryTransit agencies, private companies

Bus Driver Bus Drivers and School Bus Drivers both require a CDL, but School Bus Drivers need an additional endorsement. Bus Driver Bus Drivers typically work in public transit or private transport, while School Bus Drivers focus on transporting students. The roles overlap in credentials and work environment, but their specific duties differ based on the passenger type and setting.

What is the most a bus driver can make?

Bus drivers' salaries vary by location and experience, but the highest-paid bus drivers can earn over $50,000 to $60,000 annually, especially with seniority, specialized routes, or additional certifications. Factors such as union membership and working overtime can also increase earnings.

What does a bus driver do?

A bus driver is responsible for transporting passengers safely along specified routes according to a set timetable. Their duties include picking up and dropping off passengers at designated stops, ensuring the safety and comfort of all riders, and following all traffic laws and regulations. Bus drivers also perform routine vehicle inspections, keep records of their trips, and may assist passengers with disabilities or special needs. Additionally, they handle fare collection and provide information to passengers about routes and schedules.
What are popular job titles related to Bus Driver Bus Driver jobs in California? For Bus Driver Bus Driver jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Bus Driver Bus Driver jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Bus Driver Bus Driver jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Bus Driver Bus Driver jobs? Cities in California with the most Bus Driver Bus Driver job openings:
Infographic showing various Bus Driver Bus Driver job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 23% Full Time, 74% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $40,658 per year, or $19.5 per hour.
Bus Driver

$25.85 - $31.78/hr

Part-time

Posted 11 days ago


Job description

BUS DRIVER
JOB DESCRIPTION
Under the direct supervision of the Transportation Supervisor, to do cleaning, fueling and driving; ability to follow verbal and written directions and to work cooperatively with others; willingness to perform other duties as required.
PRIMARY DUTIES
Drives a bus over designated routes in accordance with time schedules, picking up and discharging children, escorting children across the street, stopping traffic when necessary. May assist or lift students both physically and mechanically in boarding and/or departing buses or other vehicles. Transports staff, chaperones and students on field trips to various locations making departure and arrival time as scheduled; follows district policies regarding the disciplining of pupils and contacting school district staff, parents and other citizens. Load and unload baggage and store in vehicle safely. Maintains assigned equipment in a neat, clean and safe condition at all times. Fills and maintains all vehicle fluid reservoirs. Keeps necessary transportation records for the Transportation Supervisor; reports driving hazards, incidents or mechanical needs to the Transportation Supervisor.
SUPERVISION RECEIVED AND EXERCISED:
Under the general supervision of the Transportation Supervisor, the Principal and the District Office.
REQUIREMENTS:
Possession of a valid a California Commercial Driver's License, Class A or B with Air Brake and Passenger Transport endorsements. A valid California Special Driver Certificate endorsement for driving a school bus. A current Medical Certificate and either passed the First Aide Test required by the California Highway Patrol or possesses a current First Aid Card. Must complete all required in-service or classroom training during each 12 months to maintain certificate validity. Must maintain insurability by the District's liability insurance carrier. Must meet all State and Federal legal requirements to drive a school bus or a vehicle which transports pupils.
DESIRABLE QUALIFICATIONS
Should possess personal characteristics generally recognized as essential for good public employees, including integrity, initiative, dependability, courtesy, good judgment, and ability to work cooperatively with others. Represent and support the District in conversation with the public.
Education: Completion of the 12th grade.
Experience: Six months experience as a bus driver or successful completion of the required California Department of Education classroom and behind-the-wheel school bus drivers training course.
Knowledge: Safe driving practices, provisions of the Motor Vehicle Code, Education Code and Title 13 of the California Code of Regulations applicable to the operation of vehicles in transporting pupils, First Aide/CPR and working with school aged students.
Ability: To operate a school bus, exercise good judgment, use extreme caution and maintain order among pupils while on the bus, loading or unloading. To follow verbal and written directions. To work cooperatively with others. Ability to lift 50 lbs.
Hours 4.25 hrs/day
Salary: $14.61 - $17.95 in 8 Steps
Deadline Date: Open Until Filled
Contact the Human Resources Department, 5 Powell Avenue, Lemoore, CA 93245 (559) 924-6610
Revised: 4/98
Requirements / Qualifications
  • Letter of Introduction
  • Letter(s) of Reference (Three)
  • Resume