ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Bus Driver Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Long Beach School District

Bus Driver

Long Beach, CA · On-site

$18.25 - $25/hr

School Bus Driver Job Summary: The purpose of the School Bus Driver is to be responsible for transporting students on a school bus. The School Bus Driver is the first person to greet students on ...

FIRST CLASS CHARTER INC

Bus Driver

Hayward, CA

$175/day

As the School Bus Driver, you will be responsible for the safe operation of the school bus while adhering to a strict schedule and ensuring your passengers well-being. The ideal candidate has a ...

Poway Unified School District

Bus Driver

San Diego, CA · On-site

$23.71 - $30.34/hr

Bus Driver at Poway Unified School District Share on X Print Application Deadline 6/30/2026 11:55 PM Pacific Date Posted 2/19/2026 Contact Danielle Strauss 858-521-2798 Number of Openings 5 Salary ...

FIRST CLASS CHARTER INC

Bus Driver

Hayward, CA · On-site

$175/day

As the School Bus Driver, you will be responsible for the safe operation of the school bus while adhering to a strict schedule and ensuring your passengers' well-being. The ideal candidate has a ...

FIRST CLASS CHARTER INC

Bus Driver

Hayward, CA · On-site

$175/day

As the School Bus Driver, you will be responsible for the safe operation of the school bus while adhering to a strict schedule and ensuring your passengers' well-being. The ideal candidate has a ...

First Class Charter

Bus Driver

Hayward, CA · On-site

$175/day

As the School Bus Driver, you will be responsible for the safe operation of the school bus while adhering to a strict schedule and ensuring your passengers' well-being. The ideal candidate has a ...

San Jose Unified School District

Bus Driver

San Jose, CA · On-site

$28.03/hr

Bus Driver at San Jose Unified School District Share on X Print Application Deadline Until Filled Date Posted 6/4/2026 Contact Classified Team Number of Openings 9 Salary Single Rate 28.03 Per Hour ...

Monrovia Unified School District

Bus Driver

Monrovia, CA · On-site

$22.03 - $28.12/hr

Under the leadership of the Lead Bus Driver and the general supervision of the Director of Maintenance, Operations and Transportation, drives a school bus over designated routes; keeps interior and ...

Golden Rain Foundation

Bus Driver

Seal Beach, CA · On-site

$18.66 - $25.58/hr

GRF has an opportunity for a Bus Driver to join our Transportation Department. Our bus system provides transportation throughout our community and to nearby shopping centers, restaurants, and medical ...

Los Olivos School District

Bus Driver

Los Olivos, CA · On-site

$21.84 - $26.54/hr

SCHOOL BUS DRIVER DEFINITION Under the direction of the assigned supervisor, operate a school bus to transport students to and from a variety of school and work sites, and other school-related ...

Humboldt County Office of Education

Bus Driver

Eureka, CA · On-site

$22.76 - $33.63/hr

Position Summary Under general supervision, the school bus driver is responsible for safely operating a school bus or transportation vehicle over designated routes to transport special needs students ...

Lemoore Union High School District

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 ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsBus Driver JobsBus Driver Jobs in California

Bus Driver information

See California salary details

$8

$19

$28

How much do bus driver jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for 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 is the highest paid Bus Driver?

The highest paid bus drivers are typically those with extensive experience, specialized skills, or who work in high-cost regions, earning salaries that can exceed $60,000 annually. Factors such as union membership, certifications, and the type of bus operated can also influence pay rates.

How much do school bus drivers make?

School bus drivers in Tennessee typically earn an average hourly wage of around $14 to $17, which translates to approximately $29,000 to $35,000 annually for full-time drivers. Wages can vary based on experience, certifications, and the school district's pay scale, and drivers often need a commercial driver's license (CDL) with passenger endorsements.

What are bus drivers?

Bus drivers are licensed professionals responsible for safely operating buses to transport passengers along designated routes. Their duties include picking up and dropping off passengers at scheduled stops, adhering to traffic laws, and maintaining a safe and courteous environment. They may work for public transit agencies, schools, or private companies, and often handle customer service tasks such as answering questions or assisting passengers with disabilities. In addition to driving, bus drivers are responsible for performing basic vehicle inspections and reporting any mechanical issues. Their primary goal is to ensure passengers reach their destinations safely and on time.

Do bus drivers need a CDL?

Yes, bus drivers typically need a Commercial Driver's License (CDL) to operate large passenger vehicles legally. The specific license class required depends on the size and type of bus, and additional endorsements may be necessary for transporting passengers or hazardous materials.

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

AspectBus DriverSchool Bus Driver
Required CertificationsCommercial Driver's License (CDL)CDL with school bus endorsement
Work EnvironmentPublic transit, charter, or private transportationSchool campuses, student transportation
Employer & IndustryTransit agencies, private companiesSchool districts, educational institutions
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

While both Bus Drivers and School Bus Drivers require a CDL with specific endorsements, School Bus Drivers focus on transporting students within school districts, often with additional safety training. Bus Drivers may work in various settings like public transit or private charters, serving different passenger needs. The key difference lies in the work environment and the specific certification requirements tailored for student safety in school transportation.

What are some common challenges bus drivers face during their daily routes, and how can they manage them?

Bus drivers often encounter challenges such as managing tight schedules, handling difficult passengers, and navigating through traffic or adverse weather conditions. To manage these challenges, drivers are trained to remain calm under pressure, use conflict resolution techniques, and follow safe driving practices. Effective communication with dispatchers and maintaining a strong focus on passenger safety also help drivers address issues efficiently and keep routes running smoothly.

Do bus drivers work 40 hours a week?

Bus drivers typically work around 40 hours per week, often including early mornings, evenings, weekends, and split shifts depending on their schedule and employer. Overtime may be required during busy periods or to cover additional routes, and schedules can vary by transit agency or company policies.

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 route planning software, vehicle inspection tools, and sometimes GPS navigation systems is typically required. Strong customer service skills, patience, and the ability to remain calm under pressure help bus drivers manage passengers and challenging situations. These skills ensure passenger safety, reliable transportation services, and a positive experience for all riders.

What Do Bus Drivers Do?

Bus drivers transport passengers from one location to another. School bus drivers chauffeur students from bus stops to school and back again. City bus drivers transport passengers between different city locales. Some bus drivers may choose to operate long-distance vehicles that provide rides across state or national borders, or may drive chartered trips or sightseeing tours. It is a bus driver’s job to welcome passengers aboard their vehicle, collect payment (if applicable), and ensure that everyone is transported safely to their destination.

More about Bus Driver jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Bus Driver jobs in California? The most popular types of Bus Driver jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Bus Driver jobs in California? For Bus Driver jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Bus Driver jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Bus Driver jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Bus Driver jobs? Cities in California with the most Bus Driver job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Bus Driver jobs in CA? For Bus Driver jobs in CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Bus Driver jobs near you
Infographic showing various Bus Driver job openings in California as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 17% Full Time, 66% Part Time, and 17% 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

Long Beach School District

Long Beach, CA • On-site

$18.25 - $25/hr

Full-time

Posted 7 days ago

Job description

Position Type:
Transportation/Bus Driver
Date Posted:
1/1/2022
Location:
Transportation
Job Title: School Bus Driver
Job Summary: The purpose of the School Bus Driver is to be responsible for transporting students on a
school bus. The School Bus Driver is the first person to greet students on their journey to school each day,
and they are the last person the students see in the afternoon. It is imperative for this person to have a good
disposition when working alongside students. The School Bus Driver must make note of and report on
unsafe bus activity to the Transportation Director.
Reports to: Transportation Director
Payment Rate: Bus driver payment schedule
Essential Functions:
Operate the school bus in a safe and effective manner in order to minimize the risk of injury, property
damage or loss of life.
Assume responsibility for the safety of school children in loading, unloading, and transporting students to
and from school.
Instruct children in safety precautions and practices. Drive safely and follow all traffic laws at all times.
Keep a consistent schedule of pick up and drop off of students in the mornings and afternoon.
Complete various forms and records, including updated route sheets, time sheets, incident and accident
reports, and etcetera.
Have consistent procedures to maintain discipline on the bus (i.e., assigned seats).
Be a good role model for students of all ages. Display a positive demeanor when interacting with children.
Ensure the bus is safely and securely stored.
Other responsibilities assigned by administration.
Physical Requirements/Environmental Condition:
The Driver must sit for prolonged periods and requires intense concentration, particularly in poor driving
conditions.
Qualifications:
At least a B license with a P and an S endorsement. Pass DOT physical fitness exam, including but not
limited to assisting students on/off bus and leaping off the back of the bus in a timely manner in case of an
emergency.
Clearances: Criminal Justice Fingerprint/Background Clearance

Apply