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First Student Driver Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

YMCA Reston - CDL Driver

Reston, VA · On-site

$23 - $25/hr

About the Job The Commercial Driver's License (CDL) driver position reports to the Program Director ... and First Aid kit with Bloodborne Pathogen equipment * Exercises student/participant management ...

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Bus Driver

Fort Washington, MD · On-site

$23 - $31/hr

Transports students or clients, ensures adherence to safety rules, and assists passengers in ... Maintains knowledge of first-aid procedures. * Prepares and submits reports that may include the ...

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First Student Driver information

See Washington salary details

$17

$24

$44

How much do first student driver jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for first student driver in Washington is $24.02, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.14 and $24.52 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.
Infographic showing various First Student Driver job openings in Washington 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 $49,962 per year, or $24 per hour.
Transportation Van Driver

Transportation Van Driver

Fairfax County Public Schools

Falls Church, VA • On-site

$13.75 - $19/hr

Temporary

Posted 11 hours ago


Job description

Summary
Performs all activities required to safely drive a school van transporting students and other authorized personnel to and from schools and school-related events; performs related duties as required or assigned.
Qualifications
Required
  • Any combination of education and experience equivalent to completion of the tenth grade.
  • Must have, or be able to obtain, certification in emergency first aid, cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), and the use of an automated external defibrillator [22.1-178].
  • Must possess a valid driver's license and a satisfactory driving record from the Department of Motor Vehicles that shows, within the preceding five years, there has been no convictions of driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, convictions of refusing to take a blood or breath test, convictions of a felony, or assignment to any alcohol safety action program or driver alcohol rehabilitation program pursuant to 18.2-271.1 of the Code of Virginia or, within the preceding 12 months, there have been no convictions of two or more moving traffic violations or has not been required to attend a driver improvement clinic by the Commissioner of the Department of Motor Vehicles pursuant to 46.2-498 of the Code of Virginia.
  • Minimum age requirement of 21 years.
  • Successful completion of the FCPS van driver training program.
  • Must have a satisfactory pre-employment physical examination and a completed School Bus Driver's Physician Certificate (form EB.001) as prescribed by the Virginia Board of Education and pass physical examination annually thereafter [x22.1-178]; must submit to random testing for alcohol and controlled substances [49 CFR Parts 40 and 382].
  • Current bus drivers who are disqualified or ineligible to operate a bus, due to medical conditions, accidents, crashes, moving violations, or substance abuse issues are not eligible for a position as a school van driver.
  • Ability to adhere to FCPS policy regarding meeting qualifications for physical and/or health requirements and maintaining certifications pertaining to school vehicle operations.
  • Must possess or have the ability to learn state regulations and laws pertaining to the operation of school vans.
  • Ability to read and speak the English language sufficiently to converse on the two-way radio with passengers, public officials, and general public.
  • Ability to read a standard road map and have knowledge of the local street and road system of Fairfax County. May require interstate travel.
  • Ability to interact positively with, gain respect of, and maintain discipline over student passengers to ensure that behavior is controlled and not distractive to safe driving.
  • Ability to assist special needs student riders.
  • Ability to work with attendants in managing all riders.
  • Knowledge of safe, proper, and courteous motor vehicle operating procedures.
  • Ability to read, understand, and carry out oral and written instructions.
  • Among the essential functions of this job is regular attendance, punctuality in reporting to work, and timely submission of attendance and leave requests.
Preferred
  • High School diploma or General Equivalency Diploma (GED) certificate.

Fairfax County Public Schools logo

About Fairfax County Public Schools

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

FCPS serves a diverse student population of more than 181,000 students. Fairfax County Public Schools is a Catalyst that transforms our Community's most valuable potential our children and shapes a thriving future. We are the community's gathering place where, together, We foster Creative thinking, a Culture of caring, and Lifelong connections. In our schools, Students share a Diversity of experiences that prepare them for success in a Global society teachers creatively challenge and inspire young minds, and Parents actively engage in their children's future.

Industry

Elementary and secondary schools

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Falls Church, VA, US

Year founded

1870

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