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First Student Bus Driver Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

KINDERCARE

Bus Driver

Alexandria, VA

$16.50 - $22.75/hr

Where first steps, new friendships, and confident learners are born. At KinderCare Learning ... Make the wheels on our bus go round and round - join the KinderCare team as a Driver! As a Driver ...

LLE Education Group

Bus Driver Childcare

Ashburn, VA · On-site

Must be first aid and child/adult CPR certified * Successful background check and VA licensing ... Drive bus on all scheduled routes to and from school as well as approved activities * Always ...

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All JobsFirst Student Bus Driver JobsFirst Student Bus Driver Jobs in Washington

First Student Bus Driver information

See Washington salary details

$10

$23

$34

How much do first student bus driver jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for first student bus driver in Washington is $23.86, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.04 and $27.50 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a First Student Bus Driver, you need a valid commercial driver's license (CDL) with passenger and school bus endorsements, a clean driving record, and basic vehicle safety knowledge. Familiarity with vehicle inspection protocols, route navigation systems, and compliance with Department of Transportation (DOT) regulations is essential. Strong communication, patience, and situational awareness are standout soft skills for managing student behavior and ensuring safety. These skills and qualifications are crucial to provide reliable, safe transportation for students and to uphold company and legal standards.

Do school bus drivers get paid for the entire day?

First Student bus drivers are typically paid for the hours they work, which usually include morning and afternoon routes. They are generally not paid for the entire day if they are not scheduled to work beyond their driving shifts. Pay may also include time for pre-trip inspections and other duties related to their route.

What is the difference between First Student Bus Driver vs School Bus Driver?

AspectFirst Student Bus DriverSchool Bus Driver
CredentialsCommercial Driver's License (CDL) with passenger and school bus endorsementsCDL with passenger and school bus endorsements
Work EnvironmentSchool campuses, bus depots, routes with studentsSchool routes, student pick-up/drop-off points
Employer & IndustryFirst Student, school transportation servicesSchool districts, private transportation companies

Both First Student Bus Drivers and School Bus Drivers require a CDL with passenger endorsements and operate in similar environments. The main difference lies in branding and employer, with First Student being a large transportation provider, while School Bus Drivers may work directly for school districts or other companies. Both roles focus on student safety and reliable transportation services.

How many hours do first student bus drivers work?

First Student bus drivers typically work part-time or full-time schedules that range from 20 to 40 hours per week, often aligned with school start and end times. Overtime may be available, and schedules can vary based on routes and district needs. Drivers are usually required to complete safety training and hold a valid commercial driver's license (CDL).

What are First Student Bus Drivers?

First Student Bus Drivers are professional drivers employed by First Student, a leading provider of school transportation services in North America. Their main responsibility is to safely transport students to and from school, field trips, and other school-related activities. They are trained to follow strict safety protocols, manage student behavior on the bus, and perform routine vehicle inspections. First Student Bus Drivers also maintain communication with school officials and parents to ensure the well-being of students during transit.

Does First Student pay for your CDL?

First Student bus drivers are typically responsible for obtaining their Commercial Driver's License (CDL) before starting. The company may offer training programs or assistance with CDL costs, but policies vary by location. It's best to check with your local branch for specific support options related to CDL expenses.

How much does First Student pay bus drivers in California?

First Student bus drivers in California typically earn an hourly wage ranging from $16 to $22, depending on experience, location, and shift. Starting pay may be lower, with opportunities for raises and benefits such as health insurance and paid training. Wages are often aligned with industry standards for school bus drivers in the state.

What are some common challenges First Student Bus Drivers face during their daily routes, and how are they supported?

First Student Bus Drivers often encounter challenges such as managing student behavior, adapting to varying traffic conditions, and adhering to strict schedules. They receive comprehensive training in student management and defensive driving, and have access to ongoing support from dispatchers and supervisors. The company fosters a team environment, where drivers regularly communicate with each other and staff to share tips and resolve issues. This support system helps drivers maintain safety and efficiency on their routes.
What are popular job titles related to First Student Bus Driver jobs in Washington? For First Student Bus Driver jobs in Washington, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching First Student Bus Driver jobs in Washington look for? The top searched job categories for First Student Bus Driver jobs in Washington are:
What cities in Washington are hiring for First Student Bus Driver jobs? Cities in Washington with the most First Student Bus Driver job openings:
First Student Bus Driver jobs near you
School Bus Driver Position (Part-Time Position)

School Bus Driver Position (Part-Time Position)

POTOMAC SCHOOL

Mclean, VA • On-site

$28/hr

Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 10 days ago

Job description

The Potomac School is hiring qualified, school bus driver candidates to join our community.
For drivers that work both the morning and afternoon runs, our robust benefit package includes:
  • Competitive pay, starting at $28.00 per hour and increasing based on experience
  • AM/PM runs with additional opportunities for field trips, late buses, and event buses
  • Availability of summer work
  • Excellent benefits including: health, dental, and vision insurance; paid vacation and holidays; opportunities for training and development
  • $2,000 annual employer retirement plan contribution
  • Well behaved students and a supportive school community
  • Sign-on bonus up to $1,500, $500 payable at 90 days, another $500 payable at 6 months, and $500 payable at one year of employment

We also have openings for school bus drivers that can work either the morning or afternoon runs only. Drivers that work only the morning or afternoon do not qualify for all of the schools benefit offerings.
The School Bus Driver is a part-time, 10-month split shift position reporting to the Transportation Services Manager. This role is responsible for safely operating the school bus and transporting students on a regular, daily basis.
Essential Functions
  • Operate the school bus in a safe and efficient way in compliance with the law and according to all relevant school policies and procedures.
  • Complete the school bus route as assigned ensuring that students safely enter and exit the school bus at their designated stops.
  • Ensure all bus passengers are safely seated before and while the school bus is in motion.
  • Observe speed limits and obey all road signs and traffic regulations.
  • Maintain order on the bus, explain safety procedures to passengers as needed, enforce rules of conduct and respond to emergencies, including the safe evacuation of passengers through emergency exits.
  • Keep record of the students transported and miles driven on each run and report to manager.
  • Ensure vehicles are in good operating condition by performing required daily pre-trip safety inspections and maintenance checks. Report any adverse conditions immediately to the school's mechanics.
  • Ensure that vehicles are in broom clean condition and free from garbage daily.
  • Perform test runs of any regularly scheduled route, as needed, to be comfortable and confident in that route prior to transporting students.
  • Review directions for the am, pm, storm stop and late run routes regularly and confirm all changes with manager.
  • Observe queuing protocols and traffic direction for school buses while on campus.
  • Exercise good judgment in the performance of job responsibilities and work without direct supervision.
  • Communicate effectively with children and parents (as needed).
  • Attend mandatory monthly driver meetings and other meetings as scheduled and required.
  • Perform any other related duties as assigned by the Transportation Services Manager or designee.

  • Must possess a high school diploma or the equivalent.
  • Must possess a valid state driver's license and be at least 21 years of age.
  • Must possess a current Commercial Driver's License (CDL) with the S and P endorsements mandated by the US DOT Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration.
  • Must be able to sit for extended periods of time.
  • Must maintain current CPR/AED certification.
  • Must demonstrate a good driving record, as defined by The Potomac School in its sole discretion, for the past 5 years.
  • Drivers are subject to background checks upon hire and every third year thereafter.
  • Drivers must obtain annual physicals and drug screenings from authorized and designated service providers. Drivers are subject to random drug screening tests in accordance with the US DOT, as well as mandated drug screening tests in the event of an on-the-job accident.
  • Drivers must agree in writing to have their DMV or MVR records made confidentially accessible to the School.

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