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Entry Level Bus Driver Jobs in Arizona (NOW HIRING)

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

As of May 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level bus driver in Arizona is $18.46, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.24 and $20.82 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Entry Level Bus Driver, and why are they important?

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 are entry level bus drivers?

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 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.

What are the most commonly searched types of Bus Driver jobs in Arizona? The most popular types of Bus Driver jobs in Arizona are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Bus Driver jobs in Arizona? For Entry Level Bus Driver jobs in Arizona, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Bus Driver jobs in Arizona look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Bus Driver jobs in Arizona are:
What cities in Arizona are hiring for Entry Level Bus Driver jobs? Cities in Arizona with the most Entry Level Bus Driver job openings:
Entry Level Bus Driver jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Bus Driver job openings in Arizona as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% Internship, 6% As Needed, 38% Full Time, 41% Part Time, and 13% Contract. Highlights an 77% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 22% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $38,392 per year, or $18.5 per hour.
Bus Driver - Full Time - 26/27 SY

Bus Driver - Full Time - 26/27 SY

Kyrene Elementary School District No. 28

Tempe, AZ • On-site

$19.28/hr

Full-time

Posted 2 hours ago

Kyrene School District rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 12 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

48th of 542 rated elementary and secondary schools

Job description

Position Type:
Transportation/Bus Driver
Date Posted:
4/1/2026
Location:
Ben Furlong Education Center - District Office
Job Description: Provides safe and efficient transportation of passengers according to specified routes and time schedules.
Complete Job Description Link: Bus Driver
Duties and Responsibilities: Drivers are responsible for driving buses on assigned bus routes and for driving buses and shuttles for scheduled trips. Duties include activities such as driving buses and/or shuttles on assigned routes and for scheduled trips; inspecting, fueling, and cleaning buses; monitoring the behavior of students; performing bus evacuations; and maintaining records related to incidents, mileage, and vehicle discrepancies.
Job Qualifications: Demonstrated skill in the safe operation of a motor vehicle. Demonstrated ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with students, parents colleagues, and community. Must pass pre-employment drug test and Arizona Dept. of Transportation physical requirements. Licensing/Certification Requirements:
  • AZ Commercial Driver's License with P&S endorsement
  • AZ School Bus Driver's Certificate
  • Valid IVP Level One AZ Fingerprint Clearance Card is required
  • CPR Certificate with AED
  • First Aid Certificate
  • Based upon assignment, AHCCCS number for Medicaid billing may be required within four weeks of hire
  • Must provide 39 month MVD record

Minimum Required Experience: High School Diploma or GED is required; or, an equivalent combination of education and experience sufficient to successfully perform the essential duties of the job such as those listed above.
Employment Information: 26/27 school year; 40 or more hours per week; 193 days per school year
Salary: Band A13 $19.28/hr entry level; plus $2.00/hr bus driver stipend
NOTE : Prior Driving Experience
Credit may be awarded for prior passenger bus or heavy vehicle with trailer (over 26,001 lbs.) Commercial Driver License driving experience. Documentation to support prior eligible experience will be required in order to determine if additional compensation is warranted.
Attachment(s):
  • Physical Performance Test.pdf

What Kyrene School District employees say

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About Kyrene School District

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Kyrene School District is one of Arizona’s leading public school districts, providing excellence in education for over 135 years. Kyrene is known for high academic achievement, with schools consistently outperforming peer districts, charter schools, and state averages on AzMERIT and other academic benchmarks. Kyrene comprises 26 schools (17 elementary, six middle, and three K-8). District boundaries encompass all of Ahwatukee and parts of Chandler, Guadalupe, Tempe, and the Gila River Indian Reservation. Kyrene enrolls approximately 14,000 students in grades K-8 and offers preschool options on every single elementary school campus.

Industry

Elementary and secondary schools

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Tempe, AZ, US

Year founded

1888

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