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Bus Driver Trainer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Oroville Union High

Bus Driver 6.0 Hours

Oroville, CA · On-site

$16.75 - $23/hr

Bus Driver Under the general supervision of the Transportation Supervisor, the Bus Driver is ... OUHSD will provide comprehensive training for qualified and interested applicants at no cost. All ...

River Delta Unified School District

Bus Driver

Rio Vista, CA · On-site

$17.75 - $24/hr

Training: Equivalent to completion of the twelfth grade and successful completion of California school bus driver certification. License or Certificate: Possession of a California School Bus Driver ...

SAFELINK TRANSIT LLC

Bus Drivershuttle driver

Elk Grove, CA · On-site

$17.75 - $24.50/hr

The ideal candidate has a Commercial Driver's License (CDL) and previous experience as a bus driver or has completed bus driver training. If you have an impeccable driving record, high safety ...

Santa Rita Union School District

Bus Driver

Salinas, CA · On-site

$18.25 - $25/hr

School Bus Driver Operates a school bus daily, providing safe and efficient home-school ... Education and Training Any combination equivalent to training and experience that could likely ...

Santa Rita Union School District

Bus Driver

Salinas, CA · On-site

$23.38 - $29.83/hr

CLASSIFIED PERSONNEL Bus Driver JD 8121 Operates a school bus daily, providing safe and efficient ... Education and Training: Any combination equivalent to training and experience that could likely ...

Pleasant Valley School District, CA

Bus Driver

Camarillo, CA · On-site

$25.72 - $28.37/hr

Participate in staff development and in-service training programs as assigned. * Drive a school bus ... Class B driver's license with passenger endorsement. Valid First Aid and CPR certificates. Maintain ...

Nuview Union School District

Bus Driver

Nuevo, CA · On-site

$26.71 - $35.75/hr

Education, Training, and Experience: • Completion of twelfth grade or equivalent; • Successful completion of the California Highway Patrol examination for school bus drivers; • One year of ...

Pleasant Valley School District, CA

Bus Driver

Camarillo, CA · On-site

$25.72 - $28.37/hr

Participate in staff development and in-service training programs as assigned. * Drive a school bus ... Class B driver's license with passenger endorsement. Valid First Aid and CPR certificates. Maintain ...

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Bus Driver Trainer information

See California salary details

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$29

How much do bus driver trainer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for bus driver trainer in California is $22.73, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.14 and $23.70 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a bus driver trainer?

Bus Driver Trainers are professionals responsible for instructing and evaluating new and existing bus drivers to ensure they operate vehicles safely and in compliance with transportation regulations. They teach driving skills, safety protocols, customer service, and emergency procedures. Bus Driver Trainers also provide retraining or refresher courses and may be involved in assessing driver performance and maintaining training records. Their role is essential in promoting road safety and high service standards within transportation organizations.

How do bus driver trainers typically balance classroom instruction with on-the-road training sessions?

Bus Driver Trainers usually split their time between classroom-based instruction, where they cover safety regulations and company policies, and hands-on driving sessions to teach practical skills. This balance ensures trainees not only understand theoretical concepts but also gain confidence behind the wheel. Trainers often coordinate with safety managers and other trainers to develop comprehensive lesson plans and may provide feedback sessions after each driving practice. Effective time management and adaptability are key, as training schedules can shift based on new driver needs or regulatory updates.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a bus driver trainer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Bus Driver Trainer, you need extensive knowledge of traffic laws, bus operations, and instructional techniques, often supported by a commercial driver’s license (CDL) and prior experience in bus driving. Familiarity with training simulators, vehicle inspection tools, and safety management systems is typically required. Patience, strong communication, and leadership are essential soft skills for effectively teaching and evaluating new drivers. These skills are crucial for ensuring safe driving practices and maintaining high standards of passenger and public safety.

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

AspectBus Driver TrainerBus Driver
Required CredentialsCommercial Driver's License (CDL), training certificationCommercial Driver's License (CDL)
Work EnvironmentTraining facilities, on-road instructionOn buses, routes, and transit environments
Employer & Industry UsageTransportation companies, schools, transit agenciesPublic transit, school districts, private transport

The main difference is that a Bus Driver Trainer focuses on instructing and certifying new drivers, while a Bus Driver operates the vehicle daily. Both roles require CDL certification, but the trainer's role emphasizes teaching skills and safety protocols.

How much training does it take to be a bus driver trainer?

Becoming a bus driver trainer typically requires prior experience as a bus driver, along with completion of a specialized trainer certification or program that covers instructional techniques and safety protocols. The training duration can range from a few days to several weeks, depending on the program and employer requirements.

What does it take to become a bus driver trainer?

To become a bus driver trainer, individuals typically need a valid commercial driver's license (CDL) with passenger and school bus endorsements, along with several years of driving experience. Many employers require trainers to complete a specialized training program or certification in driver instruction and demonstrate strong communication and safety skills.

What type of bus driver trainer makes the most money?

Experienced bus driver trainers who hold advanced certifications, such as commercial driver instructor licenses, and have specialized skills in safety and passenger management tend to earn higher salaries. Trainers working for large transportation companies or in regions with high demand for qualified instructors also typically make more money. Leadership roles, such as training supervisors or program managers, generally offer higher compensation within the training field.

What cities in California are hiring for Bus Driver Trainer jobs?

Cities in California with the most Bus Driver Trainer job openings:

Bus Driver Trainer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Bus Driver Trainer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 24% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $47,285 per year, or $22.7 per hour.

School Bus Driver

CROSSROADS SCHOOL FOR ARTS & SCIENCES

Santa Monica, CA

$28 - $31/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 20 days ago

Job description

Position Overview: 

At Crossroads School for Art & Sciences, we are looking for a dedicated and compassionate School Bus Driver to become a key part of our team. As a School Bus Driver, you will play a vital role in ensuring the safe and reliable transportation of our students, while fostering a friendly and positive environment for all passengers. You will also uphold our school policies and ensure compliance with safety regulations - all while creating a safe and welcoming atmosphere for our students and community. 

Work Hours: 7am to 4pm (schedule can vary depending on routes and needs) 

Work Schedule:

  • Monday to Friday 
  • Weekends and occasional overnight trips (advance notice provided) 

Essential Job Functions: 

  • Safely operate a school bus, ensuring smooth and efficient travel along designated routes
  • Build positive, professional relationship with students, teachers, staff, and parents 
  • Perform pre-trip transit vehicle inspections - identifying  and reporting any safety concerns, defects, and other needed repairs 
  • Implement safety programs and ensure all students adhere to established safety guidelines
  • Ability to adapt to different driving conditions and handle varying schedules
  • Strong communication skills and the ability to remain calm and composed in various situations 
  • Perform other related duties as assigned or requested by supervisor

Education and Experience:

  • High school diploma or equivalent
  • CDL/Class B Driver’s License (Required) 
  • Air Brake Endorsement (Required) 
  • Passenger Endorsement (Required) 
  • School Bus Endorsement (Required) 
  • DOT Medical Certificate (Required) 
  • Commercial Driving: 5 years (Preferred)

Other Requirements:

  • Ability to pass a comprehensive background check 
  • Must successfully complete pre-employment and drug/alcohol testing per DOT guidelines
  • Must complete the annual requirement for in-service bus driver training
  • Mountain Certified (or willingness to obtain certification)

Apply