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Bus Driver Jobs in Riverside, CA (NOW HIRING)

Marshall Public Schools

Bus Monitor

Fontana, CA · On-site

$18.41 - $19.35/hr

Share responsibility with the bus driver that children are delivered to the correct address to an approved adult. SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES : Supervise children getting on and off the bus as well ...

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All JobsBus Driver JobsBus Driver Jobs in Riverside, CA

Bus Driver information

See Riverside, CA salary details

$8

$20

$29

How much do bus driver jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for bus driver in Riverside, CA is $20.66, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.07 and $23.32 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Do you need a CDL to drive for Trimet?

Yes, bus drivers typically need a Commercial Driver's License (CDL) to operate transit buses for agencies like Trimet. The CDL must meet specific state and federal standards, and drivers often need to pass written and skills tests, as well as background checks. Having a CDL is a standard requirement for driving commercial passenger vehicles.

How much do school bus drivers make?

School bus drivers in Tennessee typically earn an average annual salary of around $30,000 to $40,000, depending on experience, routes, and school district. They often need a commercial driver's license (CDL) and may work part-time or full-time schedules, including early mornings and afternoons.

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.

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.

How to get a bus driver's license?

To become a bus driver, you must obtain a Commercial Driver's License (CDL) with a passenger endorsement by passing written and skills tests, meet age and health requirements, and have a clean driving record. Additionally, completing a training program and background checks are typically required before applying for a bus driving position.

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 is the highest paying bus driver?

The highest paying bus drivers are often those who work in specialized sectors such as charter, tour, or school bus driving, especially with extensive experience or in regions with higher wage standards. Factors like certifications, seniority, and the type of employer can also influence salary levels, with some drivers earning over $50,000 annually. Generally, bus drivers with additional skills or who operate in high-demand areas tend to earn the most.

How difficult is it to become a bus driver?

Becoming a bus driver typically requires a valid driver's license, a clean driving record, and passing a background check. Many regions also require a special commercial driver's license (CDL) and completion of a training program, which covers safety procedures and vehicle operation. The process can take several weeks to months depending on licensing requirements and training availability.

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.

Do school bus drivers work 40 hours a week?

School bus drivers typically work around 20 to 30 hours per week, including morning and afternoon routes, but some may work additional hours for activities or training. Full-time positions can reach 40 hours or more, depending on the employer and schedule requirements. Overtime and flexible hours are common in the profession.
More about Bus Driver jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Bus Driver jobs in Riverside, CA? The most popular types of Bus Driver jobs in Riverside, CA are:
What are popular job titles related to Bus Driver jobs in Riverside, CA? For Bus Driver jobs in Riverside, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Bus Driver jobs in Riverside, CA look for? The top searched job categories for Bus Driver jobs in Riverside, CA are:
What cities near Riverside, CA are hiring for Bus Driver jobs? Cities near Riverside, CA with the most Bus Driver job openings:
Bus Driver jobs near you
Infographic showing various Bus Driver job openings in Riverside, CA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 56% Full Time, and 44% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $42,980 per year, or $20.7 per hour.
School Bus Driver- No Experience Necessary - Training Provided

School Bus Driver- No Experience Necessary - Training Provided

National Express Corp

San Bernardino, CA • On-site

$29.87 - $36.66/hr

Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted yesterday

National Express rating

6.9

Company rating: 6.9 out of 10

Based on 17 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

51st of 76 rated public transport

Job description

School Bus Driver -CDL Training Provided
Looking for a job that fits your life and makes a difference? Now's the time. Summit School Services is immediately hiring School Bus Drivers and offering CDL training, no nights or weekends, and reliable split-hour schedules that work around your day.
Whether you're starting fresh, returning to the workforce, or bringing a friend along - this is a great opportunity to earn steady pay close to home while supporting students in your community.
Bring a friend - apply together, interview on the spot, and start your new school bus driver career today!
• Pay: $29.87-$36.66/ hour depending on experience
Retention Bonus: $5000 for fully credentialed drivers!
Additional requirements may apply. See office staff for full details
• Guaranteed Hours: 20 hours per week
• Location: Durham School Services 1355 South E Street, San Bernardino, CA 92408
No appointment needed. No experience required. Just walk in - and bring a friend!
Why Join Summit School Services?
  • Competitive hourly pay with direct deposit and weekly/daily pay available in some locations
  • Paid CDL training - We'll help you get your initial CDL permit and then pay you to complete the remainder of the CDL training to obtain your license!
  • Flexible part-time schedule with split shifts (morning & afternoon)
  • No nights, weekends, or holidays - perfect work-life balance
  • Seasonal employment option with summers off
  • Guaranteed minimum hours with opportunities for extra routes and field trips
  • Access to benefits including medical, dental, vision, 401(k) (plan details vary by location)
  • Eligible locations may also offer sign-on, attendance, or referral bonuses - ask us for details!
  • A supportive, family-oriented work environment where safety is our #1 priority

Who Makes a Great School Bus Driver?
We welcome applicants from all backgrounds:
  • New to commercial driving - we provide CDL training
  • Experienced drivers (CDL-A/B, delivery, shuttle, transit)
  • Veterans & military service members
  • Parents, retirees, and those seeking part-time or split-shift work
  • Customer service, retail, hospitality, camp counselors, coaches, school support staff, Medical transport drivers, nursing home drivers, patient transfer specialists, trades & mechanics

Responsibilities:
  • Safely operate a school bus on assigned local routes
  • Transport students to and from school, sports, and events
  • Perform pre-trip and post-trip vehicle inspections
  • Maintain a clean, safe bus environment
  • Communicate courteously with students, parents, and school staff
  • Follow all federal, state, local, and company safety rules

Company Name Is : Durham School Service
Requirements:
  • Valid driver's license with a clean driving record (no CDL needed to start).
  • Must have held a driver's license for at least 3 years (5 years if applying in Tennessee).
  • Minimum age: 21 (25 in Tennessee).If you've held a DOT-regulated driving role in the past 3 years, we must be able to verify that employment per DOT guidelines.
  • Pass DOT drug screen, physical, and background check
  • Compliance with DOT regulations (marijuana prohibited, even for medical use)
  • Reliable attendance & safety-first attitude

At Summit School Services, safety, reliability, and community are at the heart of what we do. Every day, our professional drivers safely transport students to and from school, field trips, and extracurricular activities while enjoying flexible, rewarding careers with industry-leading training and benefits.
Summit School Services has a zero-tolerance policy on conduct that is incompatible with its policies and values, including sexual exploitation and abuse, harassment, abuse of authority, and discrimination. Summit School Services is committed to promoting the protection and safeguarding of all children and passengers.
We offer medical, dental, vision, basic life insurance coverage, holiday pay, and PTO accrual. Additionally, employees are able to enroll in a retirement savings plan.
At Summit School Services our goal is to be a diverse workforce that is representative of the communities we serve. All employment decisions are based on business needs, job requirements and individual qualifications, without regard to race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy (including childbirth, lactation and related medical conditions), national origin, age, physical and mental disability, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, genetic information (including characteristics and testing), military and veteran status, and any other characteristic protected by applicable law.
Summit School Services LLC's independent subsidiaries and affiliates are an equal employment opportunity (EEO) employer
The pay rate range, along with most all of the other terms and conditions of employment, vary between different sites, geographical markets, customer/ contractual terms and positions.

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