ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Bus Driver Instructor Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Los Angeles Metro

BUS OPERATOR

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$28.81 - $34.93/hr

If promoted to Line Instructor/Mentor, instructs bus operator student trainees on all job duties ... S. driver license for at least two years * Satisfactory driving record for the past five years as ...

First Student

Trainer

Los Angeles, CA

$43/hr

Must possess current school bus credentials required to provide school bus driver training in the State of California, including State Instructor or Behind-the-Wheel Delegate certification * High ...

First Student, Inc.

Trainer

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$43/hr

Must possess current school bus credentials required to provide school bus driver training in the State of California, including State Instructor or Behind-the-Wheel Delegate certification * High ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsBus Driver Instructor JobsBus Driver Instructor Jobs in California

Bus Driver Instructor information

See California salary details

$9

$20

$29

How much do bus driver instructor jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 19, 2026, the average hourly pay for bus driver instructor in California is $20.79, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.59 and $23.94 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How to become a bus instructor?

To become a bus instructor, candidates typically need a valid commercial driver's license (CDL) with passenger and school bus endorsements, along with several years of driving experience. They must also complete a specialized instructor training program and pass a certification exam, demonstrating knowledge of safety protocols and teaching methods. Some regions require background checks and ongoing training to maintain certification.

How do I become a certified CDL trainer?

To become a certified CDL trainer, you typically need to hold a valid commercial driver's license, have several years of driving experience, and complete a trainer certification program approved by the Department of Motor Vehicles or relevant licensing authority. Additionally, trainers often must pass background checks and demonstrate teaching skills or pass a trainer assessment. Requirements can vary by state or region, so checking local regulations is recommended.

How much do bus instructors get paid?

Bus driver instructors typically earn an hourly wage ranging from $15 to $25, depending on experience, location, and the employer. Salaries can also include benefits such as health insurance and retirement plans, and the role often requires a commercial driver's license (CDL) and training certifications.

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

To thrive as a Bus Driver Instructor, you need a valid commercial driver’s license (CDL), thorough knowledge of traffic laws, and experience in commercial or school bus driving. Familiarity with training materials, simulation tools, and state-mandated certification programs is typically required. Patience, clear communication, and strong observation skills help instructors effectively teach and assess aspiring drivers. These skills are vital to ensure new drivers are safe, competent, and compliant with transportation regulations.

What are some common challenges Bus Driver Instructors face when training new drivers?

Bus Driver Instructors often encounter challenges such as varying skill levels among trainees, language barriers, and helping trainees overcome nervousness behind the wheel. Instructors must adapt their teaching methods to match individual learning paces while ensuring all safety regulations and operational procedures are understood and followed. Additionally, they frequently conduct hands-on training in real traffic conditions, which requires patience, clear communication, and quick decision-making to maintain safety for everyone involved.

What are Bus Driver Instructors?

Bus Driver Instructors are professionals responsible for training new and existing bus drivers on safe driving practices, vehicle operation, and compliance with transportation regulations. They provide both classroom instruction and behind-the-wheel training to ensure drivers meet licensing and safety standards. Instructors also assess driver performance, deliver refresher courses, and stay updated on changes in laws and technologies related to bus operations. Their work helps ensure the safety of passengers and the general public.

What is the highest paying bus driver job?

The highest paying bus driver jobs are typically with government agencies or private transportation companies that operate long-distance or specialized routes, such as charter or executive transportation. These positions often require additional certifications, experience, and sometimes union membership, and they may offer higher salaries and benefits compared to standard school or city bus driving roles.

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

AspectBus Driver InstructorBus Driver
Required CertificationsCommercial Driver's License (CDL), Instructor CertificationCommercial Driver's License (CDL)
Work EnvironmentTraining facilities, classrooms, on-road instructionOn the road, transporting passengers
Employer & Industry UsageTraining schools, transit agencies, private companiesPublic transit agencies, school districts, private transport
Common Search & ComparisonOften compared for training roles, certification requirementsFocuses on driving, passenger safety, route management

The main difference is that a Bus Driver Instructor trains and certifies new bus drivers, requiring additional instructor certifications, while a Bus Driver primarily operates the vehicle and transports passengers. The instructor role emphasizes training, safety education, and certification, whereas the bus driver role focuses on driving skills and passenger service.

What are popular job titles related to Bus Driver Instructor jobs in California? For Bus Driver Instructor jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Bus Driver Instructor jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Bus Driver Instructor jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Bus Driver Instructor jobs? Cities in California with the most Bus Driver Instructor job openings:
Bus Driver Instructor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Bus Driver Instructor job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 26% Full Time, 71% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $43,238 per year, or $20.8 per hour.
Transportation Tech/Driver Trainer (QSS # 6910)

Transportation Tech/Driver Trainer (QSS # 6910)

Santa Clara Unified School District

Santa Clara, CA • On-site

$39.73 - $50.74/hr

Full-time

Posted 14 days ago

Job description

About the Employer
Welcome to Santa Clara Unified School District!
Thank you for your interest in Santa Clara Unified School District. Our employees work together to support graduates who are resilient, future-ready, lifelong learners who think critically, solve problems collaboratively, and are prepared to thrive in a global society. SCUSD's Adult Portrait embodies eight elements that support our students:
• World-Leading Professional
• Student-Centered Lifelong Learner
• Creative and Critical Thinker
• Adaptive Forward Thinker
• The Caring Adult
• Inclusivity Champion
• Equity Advocate
• Empowering Collaborator
If you have the skills to support this vision, we invite you to apply to join our team.
Santa Clara Unified School District serves over 15,000 TK-12 students, in addition to students in Preschool through Adult School. Neighborhoods in the Cities of Santa Clara, Sunnyvale, San Jose, and Cupertino comprise the District's 56 square-mile area. Santa Clara Unified prides itself on having teachers, classified employees, and administrators who are dedicated, experienced professionals who care about each student's well-being and academic preparation.
NONDISCRIMINATION STATEMENT:
Santa Clara Unified School District does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex (including sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression), mental or physical disability, age, religion, height, weight, marital or family status, military status, ancestry, genetic information, or any other legally protected characteristic.
The Title IX Coordinator is Stacy Joslin, 1889 Lawrence Road, Santa Clara, CA 95051
Requirements / Qualifications
  • Certificate Copy (CA School Bus Driver Instructor Certificate)
  • Driver's License Copy (License class B with passenger endorsement)

Comments and Other Information
Incomplete applications and/or those lacking current information may not be considered as eligible candidates.

Apply