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Cdl Bus Driver Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

LifeWise Academy

CDL Bus Driver

Rutherford, TN · On-site

Overview As a LifeWise CDL bus driver, you will provide safe and reliable transportation for public school students to and from the LifeWise site. Our ideal candidate is responsible and punctual and ...

LifeWise Academy

CDL Bus Driver

Germantown, TN · On-site

Overview As a LifeWise CDL bus driver, you will provide safe and reliable transportation for public school students to and from the LifeWise site. Our ideal candidate is responsible and punctual and ...

LifeWise Academy

CDL Bus Driver

Memphis, TN · On-site

Overview As a LifeWise CDL bus driver, you will provide safe and reliable transportation for public school students to and from the LifeWise site. Our ideal candidate is responsible and punctual and ...

LifeWise Academy

CDL Bus Driver

Mc Minnville, TN · On-site

Overview As a LifeWise CDL bus driver, you will provide safe and reliable transportation for public school students to and from the LifeWise site. Our ideal candidate is responsible and punctual and ...

LifeWise Academy

CDL Bus Driver

Woodbury, TN · On-site

Overview As a LifeWise CDL bus driver, you will provide safe and reliable transportation for public school students to and from the LifeWise site. Our ideal candidate is responsible and punctual and ...

LifeWise Academy

CDL Bus Driver

Collierville, TN · On-site

Overview As a LifeWise CDL bus driver, you will provide safe and reliable transportation for public school students to and from the LifeWise site. Our ideal candidate is responsible and punctual and ...

LifeWise Academy

CDL Bus Driver

Fayetteville, TN · On-site

Overview As a LifeWise CDL bus driver, you will provide safe and reliable transportation for public school students to and from the LifeWise site. Our ideal candidate is responsible and punctual and ...

LifeWise Academy

CDL Bus Driver

Woodbury, TN · On-site

Overview As a LifeWise CDL bus driver, you will provide safe and reliable transportation for public school students to and from the LifeWise site. Our ideal candidate is responsible and punctual and ...

LifeWise Academy

Volunteer CDL Bus Driver

Knoxville, TN · On-site

Overview As a LifeWise CDL bus driver, you will provide safe and reliable transportation for public school students to and from the LifeWise site. Our ideal candidate is responsible and punctual and ...

LifeWise Academy

Volunteer CDL Bus Driver

Memphis, TN · On-site

Overview As a LifeWise CDL bus driver, you will provide safe and reliable transportation for public school students to and from the LifeWise site. Our ideal candidate is responsible and punctual and ...

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All JobsCdl Bus Driver JobsCdl Bus Driver Jobs in Tennessee

Cdl Bus Driver information

See Tennessee salary details

$8

$19

$27

How much do cdl bus driver jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for cdl bus driver in Tennessee is $19.12, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.29 and $22.02 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a CDL bus driver?

A CDL Bus Driver is a professional driver who operates buses and other large passenger vehicles that require a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL). These drivers are responsible for safely transporting passengers along designated routes, following traffic laws, and maintaining a schedule. They may work for schools, transit authorities, tour companies, or private organizations. In addition to driving, they often assist passengers, collect fares, and ensure the cleanliness and safety of the vehicle. To become a CDL Bus Driver, individuals must pass written and road tests and meet federal and state licensing requirements.

What are some common challenges faced by a CDL bus driver on a typical route, and how can they be managed?

CDL Bus Drivers often encounter challenges such as navigating heavy traffic, maintaining schedules, and ensuring passenger safety and comfort. These challenges can be managed by staying alert, following established safety protocols, and communicating clearly with dispatch and passengers. Building strong time management skills and practicing patience also help drivers handle stressful situations effectively. Many employers offer regular training and support to help drivers stay up-to-date on best practices and regulatory requirements.

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

To thrive as a CDL Bus Driver, you need a valid Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) with passenger and sometimes air brake endorsements, a clean driving record, and knowledge of traffic laws and safety regulations. Familiarity with electronic logging devices (ELDs), GPS navigation systems, and basic vehicle inspection tools is often required. Strong communication skills, reliability, and the ability to remain calm under pressure are valuable soft skills in this role. These competencies ensure passenger safety, efficient route management, and a positive travel experience for all riders.

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

AspectCdl Bus DriverSchool Bus Driver
Required CertificationsCommercial Driver's License (CDL) with passenger endorsementCDL with passenger endorsement, often specific to school buses
Work EnvironmentPublic transit, charter services, private companiesSchool campuses, student transportation
Employer & Industry UsageTransit agencies, private transport companiesSchool districts, educational institutions

Both Cdl Bus Drivers and School Bus Drivers require a CDL with passenger endorsement. However, Cdl Bus Drivers typically work in public transit or private charter services, while School Bus Drivers focus on transporting students for school districts. The certifications overlap, but the work environments and employer types differ.

How do I get my CDL to drive a bus?

To become a bus driver with a CDL, you must obtain a Commercial Driver's License by passing written knowledge tests and a skills driving exam specific to passenger vehicles. You also need to meet age, health, and background check requirements, and often complete a training program focused on safety and customer service.

What disqualifies you from being a CDL bus driver?

Disqualifications for a CDL bus driver include having a felony conviction, a history of DUI or drug offenses, certain medical conditions that impair driving ability, and violations of traffic laws such as reckless driving. Additionally, failing a drug or alcohol test or having a poor driving record can disqualify applicants from obtaining or maintaining a CDL license for bus driving.

What cities in Tennessee are hiring for Cdl Bus Driver jobs?

Cities in Tennessee with the most Cdl Bus Driver job openings:

Cdl Bus Driver jobs near you
Infographic showing various Cdl Bus Driver job openings in Tennessee 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 $39,764 per year, or $19.1 per hour.

CDL Bus Driver

LifeWise Academy

Rutherford, TN • On-site

Part-time

Re-posted 19 days ago

Job description

Overview
As a LifeWise CDL bus driver, you will provide safe and reliable transportation for public school students to and from the LifeWise site. Our ideal candidate is responsible and punctual and has a clean driving record.
Qualifications and Experience
  • A mature personal Christian faith in agreement with the "What We Believe" section of the LifeWise Academy Statement of Faith
  • Active participation in and commitment to a local church whose doctrine aligns with the "What We Believe" section of the LifeWise Academy Statement of Faith
  • CDL driver's license (a copy may be kept on file by the LifeWise program)
    • The driver is required to have been continuously licensed for the past three years
  • Appropriate special licenses
    • Commercial Driver's License (CDL) with endorsement for driving a passenger vehicle (P) required
    • School bus (S) endorsement preferred
  • Age requirement: 21-80 years of age
    • Any CDL driver above the age of 75 is required to submit a copy of their CDL license and (P) Passenger Endorsement annually via support ticket
  • Clean driving record with no at-fault accidents or traffic citations within the last five years
  • Undergo and pass a background check through LifeWise Academy
  • Complete drug and/or alcohol testing as required. Drug testing will be conducted for pre-employment, annual random tests and following traffic accidents.
  • All drivers with known medical conditions are required to obtain a yearly underwriter-approved Physician's Statement

Job Responsibilities Overview
  • Transport children and LifeWise volunteers to and from the LifeWise site
  • Obey traffic laws
  • Maintain the cleanliness and mechanical safety of the bus
  • Perform regular inspections of the bus
  • Refuel the vehicle as needed
  • Create and maintain a safe environment for children
    • Enforce safety rules for students
    • Assist students with entering or exiting the vehicle as needed
    • Demonstrate a calm and caring demeanor
    • Be aware of which students need help or are misbehaving
  • Complete training required by LifeWise Academy
  • Volunteer in the LifeWise classroom if agreed upon with the director

LifeWise Academy's hiring practices and EEO Statement are fully in compliance with both federal and state law. Federal law creates an exception to the "religion" section of employment discrimination laws for religious organizations and permits them to give employment preference to members of their own religion. LifeWise Academy is in that category.
Classification: Non-Exempt (Hourly)
Employment Type: Part-Time
Grid Level: 1a

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