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Entry Level Bus Driver Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Gobeacon

Entry Level School Bus Driver

Richfield, MN

$28/hr

Join our team as an Entry-Level School Bus Driver Trainee and make a difference in your community-no CDL required to start! Location: Richfield, MN Compensation: * Training Pay: $23.00/hr. + Full ...

YMCA of Honolulu

Bus Driver

Honolulu, HI · On-site

$25 - $27/hr

Level I (entry level): * Minimum 21 years of age is required. * Current Driver License with at ... Bus Driver's certification required within 3 weeks of hire, which include a valid driver's license ...

YMCA

Bus Driver

Honolulu, HI · On-site

$25 - $27/hr

Level I (entry level): * Minimum 21 years of age is required. * Current Driver License with at ... Bus Driver's certification required within 3 weeks of hire, which include a valid driver's license ...

Regional School Unit 21

Bus Driver

Kennebunk, ME · On-site

$26.23 - $32.14/hr

Paid DOT Entry Level Driver Training (ELDT), plus courseware cost is employer paid! * Annual ... bus clean and ready for service. Qualifications Ideal candidates are dependable, safety-minded ...

Redding Rancheria

Bus Driver

Redding, CA

$23.15/hr

The listed wage reflects the entry-level rate for this position. Compensation may be adjusted based ... Must have Special Drivers certificate (school bus). * Minimum of 3 years driving a bus with an ...

Posted today

Emes Transportation

School Bus Driver

Monsey, NY · On-site

$27 - $32/hr

Valid commercial driver's license (CDL) with passenger and school bus endorsements Preferred Qualifications * Entry-level experience in commercial driving * Practice safe driving habits consistently

Emes Transportation

Be Seen First

School Bus Driver

Paramus, NJ · On-site

$27 - $32/hr

Valid commercial driver's license (CDL) with passenger and school bus endorsements Preferred Qualifications * Entry-level experience in commercial driving * Practice safe driving habits consistently

Emes Transportation

School Bus Driver

Spring Valley, NY · On-site

$27 - $32/hr

Valid commercial driver's license (CDL) with passenger and school bus endorsements Preferred Qualifications * Entry-level experience in commercial driving * Practice safe driving habits consistently

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How much do entry level bus driver jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level bus driver in the United States is $19.81, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.35 and $22.36 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an entry level bus driver?

Entry level bus drivers are individuals who have recently started working in the bus driving profession, typically with minimal or no prior professional driving experience. They are responsible for safely operating buses along designated routes, picking up and dropping off passengers, and adhering to traffic laws and schedules. Entry level drivers usually undergo training to obtain a commercial driver's license (CDL) and learn about safety procedures, route navigation, and customer service. These positions are ideal for those looking to begin a career in transportation. Entry level bus drivers often work for public transit agencies, schools, or private companies.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level bus driver?

To thrive as an Entry Level Bus Driver, you need a valid commercial driver’s license (CDL), safe driving skills, and a good driving record. Familiarity with GPS navigation systems, basic vehicle maintenance, and compliance with Department of Transportation (DOT) regulations are typically required. Strong communication, patience, and customer service skills help in managing passenger interactions and maintaining a positive environment. These skills ensure passenger safety, efficient operations, and a high standard of service on every route.

What are some common challenges faced by entry level bus drivers during their first year on the job?

Entry level bus drivers often face challenges such as learning complex routes, managing schedules, and adapting to traffic conditions. Additionally, they need to develop strong customer service skills to handle passenger inquiries and resolve conflicts calmly. Navigating the safety protocols and maintaining punctuality can also be challenging at first, but most employers provide thorough training and support to help new drivers succeed. Building confidence and familiarity with the job typically comes with experience and ongoing feedback from supervisors.

What is the difference between Entry Level Bus Driver vs School Bus Driver?

AspectEntry Level Bus DriverSchool Bus Driver
Required CertificationsCommercial Driver's License (CDL) with passenger endorsementCDL with passenger endorsement, often specific to school buses
Work EnvironmentPublic transportation, private companies, or shuttle servicesSchool campuses, student transportation
Employer & Industry UsageTransit agencies, private transport servicesSchool districts, educational institutions
Common Search & ComparisonEntry Level Bus Driver vs School Bus Driver

Both roles require a CDL with passenger endorsement and involve transporting passengers. The main difference is that School Bus Drivers specifically transport students within school districts, often following school schedules, while Entry Level Bus Drivers may work in various public or private transportation settings. Understanding these distinctions helps job seekers find the right position aligned with their certifications and work environment preferences.

How hard is it to become an entry level bus driver?

Becoming an entry-level bus driver typically requires a valid driver's license, a clean driving record, and completion of a commercial driver's license (CDL) training program. Candidates often need to pass a background check, a medical exam, and a skills test; some employers also require a clean driving history and good customer service skills. The process can take several weeks to months depending on training availability and licensing requirements.

What disqualifies you from being an entry level bus driver?

Entry level bus drivers are typically disqualified if they have a valid driver's license with a clean driving record, are at least 18 or 21 years old depending on the region, and do not have serious criminal convictions or a history of DUI. Additionally, they must pass background checks, drug tests, and a medical exam, and often need to complete a training program or obtain a commercial driver's license (CDL) with passenger endorsements.
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Entry Level Bus Driver jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Bus Driver job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 67% Full Time, 30% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,198 per year, or $19.8 per hour.

ENTRY LEVEL BUS DRIVER- NO WEEKENDS

Paratransit

Sacramento, CA • On-site

$17.50/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Retirement

Posted 16 days ago

Job description

Job Opportunity: Driver

Do you want weekends and holidays off? Do you love driving? Are you friendly and enjoy helping others? If yes, this may be the job for you!

A typical day for our drivers includes: Driving seniors and disabled passengers to their program. Driving a free fixed route shuttle to farmers' markets and hospitals. Delivering food bank boxes to individuals in need. Boxes weigh up to 28lbs. Picking up seniors and disabled passengers from their program and taking them home. You must be able to bend down to the floor to secure wheelchairs to the bus. Must be able to push wheelchairs weighing up to 400lbs.

Once a job offer is made must be able to show proof of having all 3 of the following documents. Copies not allowed: Certified Birth Certificate, Valid/unexpired Permanente Resident Card, U.S. Certificate of Birth Aboard or Consular Report of Birth Abroad of U.S. Citizen, U.S. Passport or Certificate of Naturalization, Social Security Card, California Driver License.

Schedule: Must have open availability between 5:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. Monday to Friday. 8-11 hour shifts, 5 days a week, over time after 8 hours, double time after 10 hours. No late nights, weekends or holidays. Guaranteed at least 40 hours per week.

Qualifications: Valid California Driver License, Clean driving record (no more than 2 points), At least 21 years old for insurability, Must be able to pass a pre-employment drug test (including marijuana), post-offer physical and background check. Reliable. Excellent communication skills.

Salary: Starting pay: $17.50 per hour. Same Day Pay available through TapCheck.

Benefits: Free Kaiser Medical and SunLife Dental after 60 days. Paid 10 holidays, 10 vacation, 4 floating holidays and sick leave after probation. Paid training to obtain your Commercial Driver License at no cost. Retirement plan. Pet Insurance.

To apply, click the link below. Only complete applications will be considered. Applications are not available for pick up or drop off at Paratransit. We are only accepting online applications at www.paratransit.org. Successful applicants must be able to show proof of eligibility to work in the United States in accordance with Department of Homeland Security regulations. Vehicle Operators are required to join the Amalgamated Transit Union (ATU).

Paratransit, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer

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