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Bus Driver Training Jobs in Rhode Island (NOW HIRING)

DATTCO

RIDE School Bus Driver

North Smithfield, RI · On-site

$24 - $31/hr

We are currently hiring experienced school bus drivers. Come find out why DATTCO has the highest ... Paid safety meetings. Paid RIDE training (17 hours/year). * Compensation of $24.00-31.00/hour.

DATTCO

RIDE School Bus Driver

North Smithfield, RI

$24 - $31/hr

We are currently hiring experienced school bus drivers. Come find out why DATTCO has the highest ... Paid safety meetings. Paid RIDE training (17 hours/year). * Compensation of $24.00-31.00/hour.

DATTCO

RIDE School Bus Driver

North Smithfield, RI

$24 - $31/hr

We are currently hiring experienced school bus drivers. Come find out why DATTCO has the highest ... Paid safety meetings. Paid RIDE training (17 hours/year). * Compensation of $24.00-31.00/hour.

DATTCO

School Bus Driver Trainee

North Smithfield, RI · On-site

As a DATTCO School Bus Driver, you will have a vital role within your local community by helping ... We provide free personalized training. * Part-time work schedule of 20 to 30 hours per week.

DATTCO

School Bus Driver Trainee

Harrisville, RI · On-site

$22 - $29.25/hr

As a DATTCO School Bus Driver, you will have a vital role within your local community by helping ... We provide free personalized training. * Part-time work schedule of 20 to 30 hours per week.

DATTCO

School Bus Driver Trainee

Harrisville, RI

$22 - $29.25/hr

As a DATTCO School Bus Driver, you will have a vital role within your local community by helping ... We provide free personalized training. * Part-time work schedule of 20 to 30 hours per week.

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All JobsBus Driver Training JobsBus Driver Training Jobs in Rhode Island

Bus Driver Training information

See Rhode Island salary details

$8

$19

$28

How much do bus driver training jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for bus driver training in Rhode Island is $19.40, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.01 and $21.88 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is bus driver training?

Bus driver training is a program designed to teach individuals the skills and knowledge required to operate a bus safely and efficiently. It typically includes classroom instruction on traffic laws and safety procedures, as well as behind-the-wheel practice with a licensed instructor. Trainees learn about defensive driving, passenger safety, vehicle inspection, and emergency protocols. Upon completion, participants are often prepared to obtain a commercial driver's license (CDL) with the necessary endorsements to drive a bus.

What is the difference between Bus Driver Training vs Bus Driver Certification?

AspectBus Driver TrainingBus Driver Certification
Required CredentialsTraining courses, learner's permitCertification/license issued after training
Work EnvironmentClassroom and behind-the-wheel practiceOn-the-road driving with certification
Industry UsagePrepares individuals for bus driving jobsLegal requirement to operate a bus professionally
Search/Comparison IntentLearning process, training programsLegal licensing, certification process

Bus Driver Training involves completing courses and practical lessons to prepare for a bus driving career. Bus Driver Certification is the official license or credential obtained after training, allowing individuals to legally operate a bus. While training focuses on skill development, certification is the legal requirement to work professionally in the industry.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in bus driver training, and why are they important?

To succeed in Bus Driver Training, you need a valid commercial driver's license (CDL), strong knowledge of traffic laws, and safe driving practices. Familiarity with vehicle inspection protocols, defensive driving techniques, and sometimes specialized transit software is typically required. Excellent communication, patience, and customer service skills help in managing passengers and handling stressful situations. These abilities ensure the safety of passengers, compliance with regulations, and a positive experience for everyone on board.

What are the most common challenges faced during bus driver training, and how can trainees effectively overcome them?

One of the most common challenges in bus driver training is mastering the safe operation of a large vehicle in various traffic conditions, which can be intimidating for those new to commercial driving. Trainees may also find it challenging to learn and consistently apply safety protocols, passenger management, and route navigation. To overcome these, it helps to actively participate in hands-on driving practice, ask questions during classroom instruction, and seek feedback from experienced trainers. Building confidence through repetition and staying up-to-date with local regulations also greatly supports success in the training program.

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

Becoming a bus driver typically requires completing a training program that lasts from a few days to several weeks, depending on the state or company requirements. Training includes classroom instruction on safety, traffic laws, and vehicle operation, as well as behind-the-wheel practice. Additionally, drivers must pass a background check, obtain a commercial driver's license (CDL) with passenger and school bus endorsements, and often complete ongoing training for safety and compliance.

How long is bus driver training?

Bus driver training typically lasts between 2 to 4 weeks and includes classroom instruction, behind-the-wheel practice, and safety training. The duration can vary depending on the employer, state requirements, and whether the driver is obtaining a commercial driver's license (CDL) with passenger and school bus endorsements.

What disqualifies you from being a bus driver training?

Disqualifications for bus driver training typically include a history of serious traffic violations, a DUI conviction, a poor driving record, or a criminal background that raises safety concerns. Candidates must also meet age, health, and licensing requirements, and often need a clean driving record and valid commercial driver's license (CDL).
Bus Driver Training jobs near you
Infographic showing various Bus Driver Training job openings in Rhode Island as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 67% Full Time, and 33% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $40,345 per year, or $19.4 per hour.

School Bus Driver - Newport

Student Transportation of America

Newport, RI • On-site

$27.50/hr

Part-time

Re-posted yesterday

Student Transportation Of America rating

6.3

Company rating: 6.3 out of 10

Based on 63 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

80th of 97 rated public transport

Job description

Come join our team! As a school bus driver, you will have the support of a dedicated, local management team and the training needed to perform your job safely, and with care. Bus drivers are responsible for the safe delivery of students to and from school along set routes, adherence to school bus safety and bus stop safety standards, and daily vehicle inspections, among other duties. Read more to apply!
We are seeking safe drivers to transport children to and from school on established routes in Newport, RI.
What We Offer:
Pay Range: $27.50
Paid Training Program: Get paid while you learn to drive a school bus
Additional Opportunities: Charter trips, including field trips, athletic events, and event shuttling
Location: 320 J T Connell Hwy Newport, RI 02840
Contact Us: (401)-399-3229
Responsibilities:
  • Drive a school bus route - picking up and dropping off student passengers at established stops on the route.
  • Conduct pre-trip vehicle inspections to ensure safe operation.
  • Conduct post-trip vehicle inspections.
  • Attend and participate in monthly safety meetings.
  • Clean bus as necessary to maintain a professional appearance and positive company image.
  • As requested or desired to take field trips, activity trips and charter runs to transport students and other passengers to and from their destinations.

Qualifications:
  • Must be 21 years or older
  • Must have a minimum of 3 years verifiable driving history
  • Clean driving record within the last 24-36 months (about 3 years)
  • Ability and willingness to obtain a CDL
  • Complete comprehensive training program
  • Pre-employment background checks

STA is an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) employer and welcomes all qualified applicants; returning, military are strongly encouraged to apply. Applicants will receive fair and impartial consideration without regard to race, sex, color, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, genetic data, gender identity, sexual orientation, religion or other legally protected status, or any other classification protected by federal, state, or local law.
Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

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