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Bus Driver Bus Driver Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

Bus Driver

Wartburg, TN · On-site

$15.25 - $21/hr

Transportation/Bus Driver Date Posted: 8/6/2025 Location: To Be Determined Bus Driver Purpose: * transport students over assigned routes and field trips/excursions * ensure that bus is in safe ...

Bus Driver

Chattanooga, TN · On-site

$15.50 - $21.25/hr

BUS DRIVER BASIC FUNCTION/PURPOSE Provides for the safe operation of the assigned bus and control of the students while transporting to and from their assigned school or school-related function ...

Bus Driver

Oneida, TN · On-site

$14.75 - $20/hr

School Bus Driver Position Purpose Under the general supervision of the Director of Facilities, to ensure the safe transportation of students, staff, and others to and from school, residential ...

Bus Driver

Wartburg, TN

$15.25 - $21/hr

Bus Driver Purpose: * transport students over assigned routes and field trips/excursions * ensure that bus is in safe operating condition * ensure safety of students while riding the bus and while ...

Bus Driver

Newport, TN

$14.50 - $20/hr

School Bus Driver Position Purpose Under the general supervision of the Director of Facilities, to ensure the safe transportation of students, staff, and others to and from school, residential ...

Bus Driver

Athens, TN · On-site

$20.16/hr

Position Type: Transportation/Bus Driver Date Posted: 4/22/2024 Location: Athens City Schools Tennessee Driver's License CDL with an S&P endorsement required $20.16 hourly rate Attachment(s): * Bus ...

Bus Driver

Somerville, TN · On-site

$14.75 - $20.25/hr

The responsibilities of a bus driver are: transport students to and from school and other sites within designated route(s), ensure the safety of the student passengers while in a school vehicle.

Bus Driver

Morristown, TN · On-site

$15 - $20.25/hr

Transportation/Bus Driver Date Posted: 6/4/2026 Location: Countywide Date Available: 07/27/2026 Closing Date: Until FilledDescription: 1) Minimum five years driving experience; (2) Valid TN ...

Bus Driver

Morristown, TN · On-site

$15 - $20.25/hr

Transportation/Bus Driver Date Posted: 8/11/2025 Location: Countywide Date Available: 07/27/2026 Closing Date: Until FilledDescription: 1) Minimum five years driving experience; (2) Valid TN ...

Bus Driver

Morristown, TN · On-site

$15 - $20.25/hr

Transportation/Bus Driver Date Posted: 5/5/2026 Location: Countywide Date Available: 07/27/2026 Closing Date: Until FilledDescription: 1) Minimum five years driving experience; (2) Valid TN ...

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Bus Driver Bus Driver information

See Tennessee salary details

$7

$17

$25

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

As of Jul 18, 2026, the average hourly pay for bus driver bus driver in Tennessee is $17.98, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.86 and $20.29 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 cities in Tennessee are hiring for Bus Driver Bus Driver jobs? Cities in Tennessee with the most Bus Driver Bus Driver job openings:
Bus Driver

$19K - $19K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 11 days ago


Job description

Qualifications
  1. School Bus drivers should possess a Class B commercial license with school bus and passenger
  2. Substitute or alternative driver shall meet all qualifications and requirements of the regular
  3. Physical exams are required for all school bus drivers A physician approved by the Board of Education shall sign the certificate of fitness, based upon a complete physical examination.

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Duties
  1. Provide safe efficient transportation of students over established bus
  2. Be neat in appearance, courteous to parents and children, and cooperative with teachers and school
  3. Be responsible for sweeping and cleaning his/her bus
  4. Do not use profanity or tobacco in any
  5. Be responsible for the safety and correct discipline of the students while they are being transported and do not allow tobacco, drinks, or other contraband on the
  6. Obey all state and local traffic regulations and assist motorists in passing school buses between
  7. Cooperate with principals who may suspend a student from riding the bus when his/her behavior is such to causes dissension on the bus, or when the students disobey state or local rules and regulations about pupil transportation
  8. Promote safety habits with the students who are being
  9. Wear seat belts at all
  10. Participate in State-sponsored mandatory driver training
  11. Not use intoxicating beverages or drugs while
  12. Not let students off the bus except at school and their bus
  13. Written permission from the student's parent must be secured through the school principal to let students off at other stops.
  14. Take the following actions in case of an accident
    1. Give attention immediately to any personal injuries; secure medical attention if necessary; C. Report the accident to the Police, Superintendent, and Principle immediately.
  15. Check all fluids, lights, emergency buzzers, and all items required for pre and post-trip inspections daily.
  16. Cooperate with the officials of each school
  17. Fill out a conduct report on discipline problems to the principal of the school that the student
  18. Not stop at a store, cafe, or similar establishment for refreshments when the bus is en route to or from
  19. Arrive at the last school served, not before 7:30 AM and not later than five {5) minutes before the start of
  20. Drive the route or routes designated to him/her by the Board of Education or its
  21. Stop bus where it can be seen in time by approaching motorists, using a stop sign for all
  22. Allow riders disembarking to cross in front of the bus before starting
  23. Perform a pre-trip inspection of brakes, steering gear, doors, and tires
  24. Follow all highway signs and road
  25. File a report with the Director of School's office on the license number of vehicles ( drivers) disregarding safety
  26. Not exceed thirty- five (35) mph on back roads
  27. Follow the schedule and be courteous to all students who are waiting to board the bus There will be only a five (5) minute arrival variation.
  28. Close the bus door before moving the
  29. Never leave the key in the ignition. Principals do not allow students on the bus unless the bus driver is present.
  30. Acquaint him/herself with the state's rules_ and regulations concerning the school bus.
  31. Acquaint him/herself with the state and local laws affecting the safety and welfare of transported
  32. Drivers are responsible for maintaining a clean bus inside and out. Drivers are to report mechanical issues to the supervisor or mechanics as soon as they are found. Drivers ARE responsible for fueling their buses and bringing their buses in for service and repairs.
  33. Never remove students from the bus route, unless released to the police or
  34. Report to the principal any students who do not complete the home-to-school/ or school-to-home.