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Commercial Bus Driver Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Paid holidays Bus Driver Requirements: * CDL * Passenger Endorsement * Airbrake Endorsement * Good Driving Record Academy is EEO Bus Driver, Bus Operator, Motorcoach Driver, Motorcoach Operator ...

Paid holidays Bus Driver Requirements: * CDL * Passenger Endorsement * Airbrake Endorsement * Good Driving Record Academy is EEO Bus Driver, Bus Operator, Motorcoach Driver, Motorcoach Operator ...

Bus Driver

Braintree, MA · On-site

$28/hr

Paid holidays Bus Driver Requirements: * CDL * Passenger Endorsement * Airbrake Endorsement * Good Driving Record Academy is EEO Bus Driver, Bus Operator, Motorcoach Driver, Motorcoach Operator ...

Bus Driver

Leonardo, NJ · On-site

$1.5K/wk

Holiday Pay Bus Driver Requirements: * CDL * Passenger Endorsement * Airbrake Endorsement * Good Driving Record *PTO, Sign On Bonus, and Benefits available for full time employees. Academy is an EEO ...

Bus Driver

Oceanside, NY · On-site

$25.28 - $30/hr

ONE STOP SHOP TO GET YOUR CDL SIGN-ON BONUS $2,500 ONCE PASSED CDL TEST Salary: $25.28 - 30 per ... Guardian Bus is currently hiring drivers with ALL LICENSE TYPES! Have a Class D and want to pursue ...

ONE STOP SHOP TO GET YOUR CDL SIGN-ON BONUS $2,500 ONCE PASSED CDL TEST Salary: $25.28 - 30 per ... Guardian Bus is currently hiring drivers with ALL LICENSE TYPES! Have a Class D and want to pursue ...

ACADEMY BUS is now hiring CDL DRIVERS to operate ON-CAMPUS TRANSPORTATION for our local University contract services in Camden, NJ. Join Academy Bus and be part of our elite team of professional ...

ACADEMY BUS is now hiring CDL DRIVERS to operate ON-CAMPUS TRANSPORTATION for our local University contract services in New Brunswick, NJ. Join Academy Bus and be part of our elite team of ...

Bus Driver

Hackensack, NJ · On-site

$27.60/hr

ACADEMY BUS is hiring CDL DRIVERS to operate PUBLIC TRANSIT BUSES in BERGEN AND PASSAIC COUNTY, NEW JERSEY. Join Academy Bus and be part of our elite team of professional drivers, backed by the best ...

ACADEMY BUS is hiring CDL DRIVERS to operate PUBLIC TRANSIT BUSES in BERGEN AND PASSAIC COUNTY, NEW JERSEY. Join Academy Bus and be part of our elite team of professional drivers, backed by the best ...

Bus Driver

Westampton, NJ · On-site

$26/hr

ACADEMY BUS is now hiring CDL DRIVERS to operate ON-CAMPUS TRANSPORTATION for our local University contract services in Camden, NJ. Join Academy Bus and be part of our elite team of professional ...

Bus Driver

Perth Amboy, NJ · On-site

$26/hr

ACADEMY BUS is now hiring CDL DRIVERS to operate ON-CAMPUS TRANSPORTATION for our local University contract services in New Brunswick, NJ. Join Academy Bus and be part of our elite team of ...

Holiday Pay Bus Driver Requirements: * CDL * Passenger Endorsement * Airbrake Endorsement * Good Driving Record *PTO, Sign On Bonus, and Benefits are available for full time employees. Academy is an ...

Electronic logs and DVIR systems * 24 hour maintenance and dispatch teams Bus Driver Requirements: * CDL * Passenger Endorsement * Airbrake Endorsement * Good Driving Record Academy is EEO Bus Driver ...

Paid Holidays Bus Driver Requirements: * CDL * Passenger Endorsement * Airbrake Endorsement * Good Driving Record Academy is an EEO. Charter Driver, Charter Bus Driver, Charter Bus Operator, Bus ...

Holiday Pay Bus Driver Requirements: * CDL * Passenger Endorsement * Airbrake Endorsement * Good Driving Record Academy is EEO. Charter Driver, Charter Bus Driver, Charter Bus Operator, Bus Driver ...

Paid Time Off * Paid Holidays Bus Driver Requirements: * CDL * Passenger Endorsement * Airbrake Endorsement * Good Driving Record *PTO, Sign On Bonus, and Benefits are available for full time ...

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Commercial Bus Driver information

See salary details

$13

$22

$34

How much do commercial bus driver jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for commercial bus driver in the United States is $22.85, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.23 and $24.52 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Do I need a CDL to drive a charter bus?

Yes, commercial bus drivers typically need a Commercial Driver's License (CDL) with passenger endorsement to operate charter buses. The CDL ensures drivers meet safety and skill requirements for transporting passengers professionally and legally.

What disqualifies you from being a bus driver?

Commercial bus drivers are disqualified if they have a criminal record involving serious offenses, a poor driving history such as multiple traffic violations or DUIs, or medical conditions that impair driving ability. Additionally, failing to meet age requirements, lacking proper licensing or certification, or not passing background checks can disqualify candidates from becoming bus drivers.

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

AspectCommercial 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 & IndustryTransit agencies, private transportation companiesSchool districts, educational institutions

Both Commercial Bus Drivers and School Bus Drivers require a CDL with passenger endorsement and work in passenger transportation. However, Commercial Bus Drivers typically operate on public routes or private charters, while School Bus Drivers focus on transporting students for educational institutions. The certifications are similar, but the work environments and employer types differ.

Is getting a bus CDL hard?

Obtaining a Commercial Driver's License (CDL) for a bus driver involves passing written knowledge tests and a skills driving exam, which require training and practice. Candidates must also meet age, health, and background check requirements, and often complete a specialized training program. The process ensures drivers are qualified to operate large passenger vehicles safely.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Commercial Bus Driver, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Commercial Bus Driver, you need a valid commercial driver's license (CDL), thorough knowledge of traffic laws, and a clean driving record. Familiarity with route navigation systems, ticketing machines, and safety inspection protocols is typically required. Excellent customer service, patience, and stress management help drivers handle passenger interactions and unexpected situations. These skills and qualities ensure safe, reliable transportation and a positive experience for passengers.

What are some common challenges commercial bus drivers face during their shifts, and how are they typically addressed?

Commercial bus drivers often face challenges such as maintaining schedules in heavy traffic, handling difficult passenger situations, and staying alert during long shifts. To address these, many companies provide drivers with real-time route updates, ongoing customer service training, and enforced rest breaks to prevent fatigue. Team supervisors and dispatchers are also available to support drivers, ensuring safety and efficiency are maintained throughout the workday.

What is the highest paying bus driver?

The highest paying bus drivers are often those who operate specialized or long-distance routes, such as charter or tour bus drivers, or those working in regions with higher living costs. Experienced drivers with commercial driver’s licenses (CDL) and additional endorsements can earn higher wages, sometimes exceeding $60,000 annually. Salary varies based on location, employer, and experience.

What are commercial bus drivers?

Commercial bus drivers are licensed professionals responsible for operating buses that transport passengers along scheduled routes or for chartered trips. Their duties include ensuring passenger safety, following traffic laws, assisting passengers as needed, and maintaining the cleanliness and basic upkeep of the bus. They may work for public transit agencies, private charter companies, schools, or tour operators. Commercial bus drivers must have a commercial driver's license (CDL) with the appropriate endorsements and often undergo background checks and regular safety training.
More about Commercial Bus Driver jobs
What cities are hiring for Commercial Bus Driver jobs? Cities with the most Commercial Bus Driver job openings:
What states have the most Commercial Bus Driver jobs? States with the most job openings for Commercial Bus Driver jobs include:
Infographic showing various Commercial Bus Driver job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 9% Full Time, 88% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $47,538 per year, or $22.9 per hour.
Bus Driver

$28/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 4 days ago


Academy Bus rating

6.1

Company rating: 6.1 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

12th of 15 rated coach operators


Job description

Academy Bus has Local Bus Driver positions available at our Braintree, MA and Chelsea, MA locations.

Local work, home every night. Steady work. Full-time work only.

Earn $28 per hour!

Every Friday is Pay Day!

Join Academy Bus, a leader in passenger transportation, and discover a career that offers:

  • $28.00 per hour
  • Paid training 
  • Paid time off
  • Holiday pay
  • Quarterly and annual safety bonus
  • Referral bonus
  • Uniforms
  • New equipment
  • Electronic logs and DVIR systems
  • 24 hour maintenance and dispatch teams

Health Insurance and Benefits Offered Include:

  • Medical, Dental, Vision, Prescription, and Life insurance
  • Supplemental coverages
  • 401K plan
  • Paid time off
  • Paid holidays

Bus Driver Requirements:

  • CDL
  • Passenger Endorsement
  • Airbrake Endorsement
  • Good Driving Record

Academy is EEO

Bus Driver, Bus Operator, Motorcoach Driver, Motorcoach Operator, Motorcoach Bus Driver, Motorcoach Bus Operator.


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