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First Student Driver Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

We are here to help you succeed with expert training and guidance to help you become a safe and professional First Student school bus driver. School Bus Driver benefits: * Pay Details: Dependent on ...

We are here to help you succeed with expert training and guidance to help you become a safe and professional First Student school bus driver. School Bus Driver benefits: * Pay Details: Dependent on ...

School Bus Driver

San Rafael, CA · On-site

$32 - $39/hr

We are here to help you succeed with expert training and guidance to help you become a safe and professional First Student school bus driver. School Bus Driver benefits: * Pay Details: Dependent on ...

We are here to help you succeed with expert training and guidance to help you become a safe and professional First Student school bus driver. School Bus Driver benefits: * Pay Details: Dependent on ...

School Bus Driver

Santa Maria, CA · On-site

$27.99 - $35.15/hr

We are here to help you succeed with expert training and guidance to help you become a safe and professional First Student school bus driver. School Bus Driver benefits: * Pay Details: Dependent on ...

School Bus Driver

Mission Viejo, CA · On-site

$29.74 - $36.61/hr

We are here to help you succeed with expert training and guidance to help you become a safe and professional First Student school bus driver. School Bus Driver benefits: * Pay Details: Dependent on ...

School Bus Driver

Tustin, CA · On-site

$29.74 - $36.61/hr

We are here to help you succeed with expert training and guidance to help you become a safe and professional First Student school bus driver. School Bus Driver benefits: * Pay Details: Dependent on ...

School Bus Driver

Fallbrook, CA · On-site

$25 - $29/hr

We are here to help you succeed with expert training and guidance to help you become a safe and professional First Student school bus driver. School Bus Driver benefits: * Pay Details: Dependent on ...

School Bus Driver

Santa Maria, CA · On-site

$26.66 - $33.48/hr

We are here to help you succeed with expert training and guidance to help you become a safe and professional First Student school bus driver. School Bus Driver benefits: * Pay Details: Dependent on ...

Location Manager

Concord, CA · On-site

$125K - $150K/yr

First Student is Now Hiring Transportation Manager At First Student, our Transportation Managers ... van drivers and any other position requiring employees to drive a company-owned vehicle, are ...

School Bus Driver

Long Beach, CA · On-site

$27.55 - $35.50/hr

We are here to help you succeed with expert training and guidance to help you become a safe and professional First Student school bus driver. School Bus Driver benefits: * Pay Details: Dependent on ...

Diesel Mechanic

Concord, CA

$40.41 - $43.08/hr

First Student is now hiring a Diesel Technician for our shop serving Lamorinda, Traffix, and Seven ... Company-paid CDL Class B training and licensing. * Excellent benefits package including medical ...

School Bus Driver

San Rafael, CA · On-site

$32 - $39/hr

We are here to help you succeed with expert training and guidance to help you become a safe and professional First Student school bus driver. School Bus Driver benefits: * Pay Details: Dependent on ...

First Student is now hiring a Diesel Technician for our shop serving Merced, CA! Hours/Schedule ... Company-paid CDL Class B training and licensing. * Excellent benefits package including medical ...

New

Diesel Mechanic

Santa Maria, CA · On-site

$28 - $31/hr

First Student is now hiring a Diesel Technician for our shop serving Santa-Maria Bonita School ... Company-paid CDL Class B training and licensing. * Excellent benefits package including medical ...

First Student is now hiring a Diesel Technician for our shop serving Ventura County! Hours/Schedule ... Company-paid CDL Class B training and licensing. * Excellent benefits package including medical ...

Trainer

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$43/hr

First Student is now hiring a Delegate Trainer or State Instructor! At First Student, our Trainers ... Must possess current school bus credentials required to provide school bus driver training in the ...

Diesel Mechanic

Tulare, CA · On-site

$35 - $37/hr

First Student is now hiring a Diesel Technician for our shop serving Tulare County Office of ... Company-paid CDL Class B training and licensing. * Excellent benefits package including medical ...

Diesel Mechanic

Oxnard, CA · On-site

$32 - $35/hr

First Student is now hiring a Diesel Technician for our shop serving Ventura County! Hours/Schedule ... Company-paid CDL Class B training and licensing. * Excellent benefits package including medical ...

School Bus Driver

Mission Viejo, CA · On-site

$29.74 - $36.61/hr

We are here to help you succeed with expert training and guidance to help you become a safe and professional First Student school bus driver. School Bus Driver benefits: * Pay Details: Dependent on ...

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Showing results 1-20

First Student Driver information

See California salary details

$14

$20

$38

How much do first student driver jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for first student driver in California is $20.93, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.55 and $21.35 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by new First Student Drivers, and how can they be overcome?

New First Student Drivers often face challenges such as managing large vehicles in busy traffic and maintaining student discipline during routes. To overcome these, drivers receive thorough training in vehicle operation, route navigation, and student management techniques. Support from experienced drivers, supervisors, and ongoing safety meetings also help new drivers build confidence and handle issues effectively. Staying proactive about communication with dispatch and practicing regular self-assessment can further ease the transition into the role.

What is a First Student Driver?

A First Student Driver is a professional bus driver employed by First Student, a major provider of school transportation services in North America. These drivers are responsible for safely transporting students to and from school, field trips, and other activities. They must maintain a high standard of safety, follow specific routes and schedules, and ensure the well-being of all passengers on board. First Student provides comprehensive training and support to help drivers meet licensing and safety requirements.

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

AspectFirst Student DriverSchool Bus Driver
Required CredentialsCommercial Driver's License (CDL), passenger endorsementCDL with passenger endorsement, background check
Work EnvironmentSchool campuses, bus routes, transportation hubsSchool zones, residential areas, bus stops
Employer & Industry UsageFirst Student, school transportation servicesSchool districts, private transportation companies

Both First Student Drivers and School Bus Drivers require a CDL with passenger endorsement and work in school transportation environments. The main difference lies in branding and employer, with First Student Drivers working specifically for First Student, a major school transportation provider, while School Bus Drivers may work for various school districts or private companies. Both roles focus on safely transporting students to and from school.

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

To thrive as a First Student Driver, you need a valid commercial driver’s license (CDL) with appropriate endorsements, a clean driving record, and knowledge of safe driving practices. Familiarity with vehicle inspection protocols, basic maintenance, and the use of GPS or routing systems is typically required. Strong communication skills, patience, and the ability to manage student behavior are important soft skills in this role. These skills and qualifications are crucial to ensure student safety, maintain schedule reliability, and foster a positive environment during transportation.
What cities in California are hiring for First Student Driver jobs? Cities in California with the most First Student Driver job openings:
Infographic showing various First Student Driver job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 68% Full Time, 28% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,535 per year, or $20.9 per hour.
School Bus Driver

School Bus Driver

First Student

San Rafael, CA

$32 - $39/hr

Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 26 days ago


First Student rating

6.3

Company rating: 6.3 out of 10

Based on 314 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

42nd of 75 rated education support services


Job description

Now Hiring Part Time School Bus Drivers - San Rafael, CA

As a Part Time School Bus Driver, you will play a vital role in your community and the lives of students. You will start students' days with morning pickup before school and transport them safely back home in the afternoon. Additional hours for field trips and special event transportation may be available.

No experience is necessary to become a school bus driver! We are here to help you succeed with expert training and guidance to help you become a safe and professional First Student school bus driver.

School Bus Driver benefits:

  • Pay Details: Dependent on experience and qualifications
  • Hourly Rate: $32.00 - $39.00 per hour
  • Training Hourly Rate: $20.00 per hour
  • Commercial Learner's Permit (CLP) and Commercial Driver's License (CDL) training provided!
  • Medical, Dental, Vision, & Life insurance or coverage options
  • 401(k) Retirement Plan with company match.
  • Part-time, flexible schedule: Split shifts (AM/PM routes), weekdays only; No nights, weekends, holidays, or summers required.
  • Career Advancement Opportunities: Advance into operational, maintenance, management, and leadership roles in over 540 locations across the U.S. & Canada!
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP): Counseling and support services for personal and work-related issues.
  • Community Impact: Be a trusted figure for students and families.
  • Employee Discount Program: Discounts on various products and services.
  • Guaranteed Minimum Hours: Get paid for 6 hours per day at minimum.

Your day as a School Bus Driver will include:

  • Safely transport students to and from school and activities.
  • Supervise boarding and unloading at stops; assist students with seatbelts and mobility aids.
  • Maintain order on the bus to prevent distractions.
  • Conduct pre-trip and post-trip inspections (brakes, lights, tires, emergency exits).
  • Report mechanical issues promptly and keep the bus clean and sanitary.
  • Obey all traffic laws and company safety standards.
  • Communicate with parents, school staff, and dispatch about student behavior or delays.
  • Demonstrate leadership and customer service skills.

School Bus Driver Jobs are Perfect For:

  • Retirees looking for supplemental income
  • Stay-at-home parents seeking daytime work
  • Veterans transitioning into civilian roles
  • Anyone seeking a second career or flexible job
  • People who enjoy working with children

You might be a good fit as a School Bus Driver if you:

  • Are at least 21 years old
  • Have a valid driver's license for at least 3 years
  • Are looking for a part-time schedule and summers off
  • Enjoy working with students

Note: This position is subject to DOT drug testing as a safety-sensitive employee. DOT Regulation 49 CFR Part 40 does not authorize the use of Schedule I drugs, including marijuana, for any reason.

Great School Bus Drivers often bring skills such as:

  • Valid Class B License
  • History driving with ride share companies or taxi services
  • Previous experience as a teacher, CDL driver, social worker, classroom assistant, hospitality worker, or customer service or retail associate.

Take the wheel and drive your career forward with First Student! Make an impact in your community while enjoying flexible schedules, great pay, and unmatched support.


First for a reason:

At First Student, we are a family of 60,000+ employees who take pride in safely transporting more than 5 million students and passengers to and from their destinations each day! Our family of brands include Transco, Total Transportation, Maggies Paratransit, and GVC II. Our employees are at the forefront of safety and innovation; they create and implement the most advanced training and technology the transportation industry has to offer.


In the state of Washington, all technician and driving positions, including but not limited to van drivers and any other position requiring employees to drive a company-owned vehicle, are considered safety-sensitive and are therefore subject to drug and alcohol testing, including cannabis.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or veteran status. First is also committed to providing a drug-free workplace. First will consider for employment qualified applicants with criminal histories consistent with the requirements of the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, Los Angeles Fair Chance Ordinance, and any other fair chance law. Philadelphia's Fair Criminal Record Screening Standards Ordinance Poster is at this link or upon request https://www.phila.gov/media/20210423160847/Fair-Chance-Hiring-law-poster.pdf.


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