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Bus Driver 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 employee satisfaction rate in the industry. Hear what it's like from a DATTCO school bus driver:

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 employee satisfaction rate in the industry. Hear what it's like from a DATTCO school bus driver ...

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 get our kids to school safely. This is a perfect role for retirees, parents, grandparents, career ...

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 get our kids to school safely. This is a perfect role for retirees, parents, grandparents, career ...

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 employee satisfaction rate in the industry. Hear what it's like from a DATTCO school bus driver:

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 get our kids to school safely. This is a perfect role for retirees, parents, grandparents, career ...

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 get our kids to school safely. This is a perfect role for retirees, parents, grandparents, career ...

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 get our kids to school safely. This is a perfect role for retirees, parents, grandparents, career ...

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Showing results 41-60

All JobsBus Driver JobsBus Driver Jobs in Rhode Island

Bus Driver information

See Rhode Island salary details

$8

$19

$28

How much do bus driver jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for bus driver 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 type of bus driver makes the most money?

Long-haul bus drivers, who operate intercity or cross-country routes, tend to earn higher salaries than local or school bus drivers due to longer hours and increased responsibilities. Additionally, experienced drivers with commercial driver’s licenses (CDL) and specialized endorsements often earn more, especially if they work for private companies or in regions with higher wage standards.

What is a bus driver?

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.

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.

Do school bus drivers get 40 hours a week?

School bus drivers often work full-time hours, which can include around 40 hours per week, especially during the school year. However, schedules may vary based on the employer, route assignments, and whether drivers work part-time or full-time. Many drivers also work early mornings and afternoons, with some additional hours for training or extracurricular activities.

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.

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 Rhode Island? The most popular types of Bus Driver jobs in Rhode Island are:
What are popular job titles related to Bus Driver jobs in Rhode Island? For Bus Driver jobs in Rhode Island, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Bus Driver jobs in Rhode Island look for? The top searched job categories for Bus Driver jobs in Rhode Island are:
What cities in Rhode Island are hiring for Bus Driver jobs? Cities in Rhode Island with the most Bus Driver job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Bus Driver jobs in RI? For Bus Driver jobs in RI, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Bus Driver jobs near you
Infographic showing various Bus Driver job openings in Rhode Island as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full 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

Ocean State Transit LLC

Newport, RI

$28.50/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 18 days ago

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.