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Driver Trainee Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

McLane Company

Driver, Trainee Component

Ontario, CA

The Driver, Trainee Component position learns the essential functions of the Driver job including the accurate and timely distribution of products to various customer locations. The Driver Trainee ...

Poway Unified School District

Bus Driver

San Diego, CA

$23.71 - $30.34/hr

This video is being provided to give you a clear understanding of the nature of the positions of Bus Driver and Bus Driver Trainee and their requirements. Please take the time to watch the video.

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All JobsDriver JobsDriver Trainee JobsDriver Trainee Jobs in California

Driver Trainee information

See California salary details

$24.7K

$49.3K

$65.6K

How much do driver trainee jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for driver trainee in California is $49,299.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $39,500.00 and $57,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Driver Trainee vs Driver?

AspectDriver TraineeDriver
Required CredentialsDriver's license, possibly a commercial licenseValid driver's license, commercial license if applicable
Work EnvironmentTraining sites, company vehicles, on-the-job trainingRegular routes, delivery or transportation settings
Employer & Industry UsageEntry-level position in transportation, logistics, or delivery companiesFull-time professional role in similar industries

Driver Trainee is an entry-level position where individuals learn driving skills and gain necessary certifications. Once training is complete, they typically advance to a Driver role, which involves operating vehicles regularly in transportation or delivery services. The main difference lies in experience level and job responsibilities, with Driver Trainee focusing on learning and development.

What types of training and support can I expect as a Driver Trainee?

As a Driver Trainee, you will typically participate in a structured training program that combines classroom instruction with on-the-road experience under the supervision of experienced drivers or instructors. You'll learn about vehicle safety, regulatory compliance, route navigation, and proper loading/unloading procedures. Most employers provide mentorship and regular feedback during training, ensuring you build confidence and develop safe driving habits before transitioning to independent routes. This supportive environment helps you gradually assume more responsibility while preparing for any required licensing exams.

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

To thrive as a Driver Trainee, you typically need a high school diploma or GED, a valid driver’s license, and a clean driving record. Familiarity with GPS navigation systems, vehicle inspection procedures, and, eventually, a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) are often required. Strong attention to safety, good communication, and a willingness to learn help trainees adapt quickly and work well with supervisors and customers. These skills and qualifications ensure safe driving practices, regulatory compliance, and readiness for advancement to full professional driving roles.

What Is a Driver Trainee?

A driver trainee works with an employer to gain the knowledge and experience necessary to haul freight and operate tractor trailers. It usually involves the training you need to get a commercial driver's license (CDL). The process varies with the company, but it typically includes a combination of classroom time, safety coursework, and on-the-job route driving. Depending on the materials you carry, your duties may also involve earning additional license endorsements, such as hazardous material (HAZMAT). Your responsibilities may also be to load and unload trucks. You also have to record your work hours as per state and federal regulations.

What are Driver Trainees?

Driver Trainees are individuals who are in the process of learning how to operate commercial vehicles, such as trucks or buses, under the supervision of experienced drivers or instructors. They typically participate in training programs that combine classroom instruction with hands-on driving experience. The goal is to help trainees gain the skills and qualifications necessary to obtain a commercial driver's license (CDL) and become professional drivers. Driver Trainees often work closely with mentors to ensure they understand safety regulations, vehicle operation, and company policies.
More about Driver Trainee jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Driver jobs in California? The most popular types of Driver jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Driver Trainee jobs? Cities in California with the most Driver Trainee job openings:
Driver Trainee jobs near you
Infographic showing various Driver Trainee job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 68% Full Time, 28% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $49,299 per year, or $23.7 per hour.
Bus Driver Trainee

Bus Driver Trainee

Simi Valley Unified School District

Simi Valley, CA • On-site

$21.19 - $25.76/hr

Temporary

Posted 10 days ago

Job description

Job Summary
The Bus Driver Trainee role prepares individuals to become qualified school bus drivers through hands-on and classroom-based instruction. Trainees will learn to safely operate school buses, including vehicles equipped with specialized features for students with mobility or access challenges. The position supports the transportation needs of students, ensuring a safe and timely commute to and from schools, events, and special routes.
Requirements / Qualifications
Comments and Other Information
PURPOSE: To establish a list of applicants who do NOT yet possess the required qualifications to be a Bus Driver
Applicants must meet the minimum qualifications stated in the job posting by the application deadline in order to move forward in the training program. Those candidates who meet the minimum qualifications will be invited to an orientation.
APPLICATION DEADLINE FOR THIS RECRUITMENT PROCESS: Completed applications must be submitted no later than 11:59 p.m. one week before the date of the orientation. Late applications and/or certificates will not be accepted.
Orientation:
Tentatively scheduled for as early as: TBD
Training:
Tentatively scheduled for as early as: TBD
Important Notice to Applicants
The Bus Driver Trainee classification is a training position designed to prepare individuals for potential appointment to the Bus Driver classification. Trainees are expected to actively participate in all classroom instruction, behind-the-wheel training, vehicle inspections, safety training, and other activities required by the program. The training program consists of a minimum of twenty hours in class and twenty hours behind the wheel. Upon successful completion of the training program, trainees may be invited to apply for the Bus Driver classification. To be considered for appointment as a Bus Driver, candidates must meet the minimum qualifications of the Bus Driver classification and successfully participate in the Bus Driver examination process, which includes a structured interview. Completion of the Bus Driver Trainee program does not guarantee appointment to a Bus Driver position. Applicants should review the physical abilities and working conditions associated with the Bus Driver classification, as the trainee program is intended to prepare candidates to perform those duties

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