1

Handicap Bus Driver Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Senior Driver

Pala, CA ยท On-site

Must keep bus and vehicles stocked with waters and sodas. * Perform daily vehicle safety ... Must be able to operate handicap lifts. Minimum qualifications: * High School graduate or ...

Senior Driver

Pala, CA ยท On-site

Must keep bus and vehicles stocked with waters and sodas. * Perform daily vehicle safety ... Must be able to operate handicap lifts. MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS: * High School graduate or ...

Senior Driver

Pala, CA ยท On-site

Must keep bus and vehicles stocked with waters and sodas. * Perform daily vehicle safety ... Must be able to operate handicap lifts. MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS : * High School graduate or ...

Senior Driver

Pala, CA ยท On-site

Must keep bus and vehicles stocked with waters and sodas. * Perform daily vehicle safety ... Must be able to operate handicap lifts. MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS: * High School graduate or ...

Senior Driver

Pala, CA ยท On-site

Must keep bus and vehicles stocked with waters and sodas. * Perform daily vehicle safety ... Must be able to operate handicap lifts. MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS: * High School graduate or ...

Handicap Bus Driver information

See California salary details

$8

$19

$28

How much do handicap bus driver jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for handicap bus driver in California is $19.55, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.15 and $22.07 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a handicap bus driver?

To excel as a Handicap Bus Driver, you need a valid commercial driver's license (CDL) with passenger and, often, school bus endorsements, along with a clean driving record and knowledge of safety regulations. Familiarity with wheelchair lifts, securement systems, and basic vehicle maintenance is important, and some positions require first aid or CPR certification. Patience, strong communication skills, and empathy are vital for assisting passengers with diverse physical or cognitive needs. These skills ensure safe, reliable transportation while fostering trust and comfort for passengers with disabilities.

What is a handicap bus driver?

Handicap bus drivers are professional drivers who operate specially equipped buses designed to transport passengers with disabilities or mobility challenges. Their responsibilities include safely assisting individuals onto and off the bus, ensuring wheelchairs and other mobility devices are securely fastened, and following specific routes and schedules. Handicap bus drivers also maintain a safe and comfortable environment for all passengers, often working for schools, public transit agencies, or private transportation companies. They are trained in safety protocols and may provide additional support to passengers as needed.

What disqualifies you from being a handicap bus driver?

Disqualifications for a handicap bus driver typically include a history of serious traffic violations, a poor driving record, or a criminal background that raises safety concerns. Additionally, candidates must usually hold a valid commercial driver's license with passenger and medical endorsements and pass a background check and medical exam. Certain health conditions or disabilities that impair driving ability may also disqualify applicants, depending on the employer's policies.

What is the difference between Handicap Bus Driver vs School Bus Driver?

AspectHandicap Bus DriverSchool Bus Driver
Required CertificationsCommercial Driver's License (CDL) with passenger and special needs endorsementsCDL with passenger endorsement, often with school bus certification
Work EnvironmentTransporting individuals with disabilities, often in specialized vehiclesTransporting students to and from school in standard or yellow school buses
Employer & Industry UsageSpecialized transportation services, school districts, healthcare facilitiesSchool districts, private schools, educational institutions

Handicap Bus Drivers and School Bus Drivers both require CDL licenses with passenger endorsements. Handicap Bus Drivers focus on transporting individuals with disabilities in specialized vehicles, while School Bus Drivers primarily transport students in standard school buses. Both roles are essential in the transportation industry, but they serve different populations and environments.

What are some common challenges faced by handicap bus drivers, and how can they be managed effectively?

Handicap Bus Drivers often encounter challenges such as ensuring the safe boarding and disembarking of passengers with varying mobility needs, maintaining adherence to schedules while providing personalized assistance, and managing specialized equipment like wheelchair lifts. Effective communication, patience, and thorough training in the use of accessibility features are key to overcoming these challenges. Drivers are typically supported by ongoing professional development and a team environment that encourages collaboration with aides, dispatchers, and maintenance staff to ensure passenger safety and comfort.
What are popular job titles related to Handicap Bus Driver jobs in California? For Handicap Bus Driver jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Handicap Bus Driver job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 67% Full Time, 29% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $40,658 per year, or $19.5 per hour.

Substitute Bus Driver (26/27 SY)

Nuview Union School District

Nuevo, CA โ€ข On-site

$26.45/hr

Part-time

Re-posted 29 days ago


Job description

DEFINITION:
Under general supervision to drive and attend to a school bus and transport students over designated routes in compliance with assigned schedules; and to do related work as required.
EXAMPLE OF DUTIES:
In the position of Bus Driver the majority of driving is on assigned home to school bus routes and on a regularly scheduled basis. Inspects buses for mechanical and basic safety conformance prior to operation in accordance with written rules and regulations; drives buses over designated routes and ad hoc trips as authorized; supervises conduct of students being transported; picks up and discharges students; assists students on and off buses and escorts them across streets when necessary; maintains prescribed cleanliness levels to interior and exterior of the bus; prepares and completes required reports; performs other tasks as required to safely operate a bus in accordance with laws and district policies; administers first aid; performs other tasks/duties needed to complete core duties.
QUALIFICATIONS:
Knowledge of:
โ€ข safe driving practices;
โ€ข basics of first aid;
โ€ข provision of the California Motor Vehicle Code and the Education Code applicable to the operation of vehicles in the transportations of students;
โ€ข meet the physical, mental and environmental demands of the position.
Ability to:
โ€ข drive a school bus and other automotive equipment safely and efficiently;
โ€ข maintain order among students on a school bus;
โ€ข understand and follow oral and written directions;
โ€ข establish and maintain effective working relationships with others including the public;
โ€ข perform all duties in a safe and healthful manner so as to not cause a risk to self and others.
Education, Training, and Experience:
โ€ข Completion of twelfth grade or equivalent;
โ€ข Successful completion of the California Highway Patrol examination for school bus drivers;
โ€ข One year of experience in the operation of a bus;
โ€ข Must maintain knowledge of safe operation by attendance at assigned in-service training sessions/seminars.
License Required:
โ€ข Valid California Class B Driver's License
โ€ข Valid School Bus Driver Certificate
Application/Selection Procedures
As an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer, Nuview Union School District vigorously encourages and solicits applications from all qualified individuals regardless of sex, race, age, ethnic background, or handicap. All applications must be received in the Human Resources office prior to the closing deadline. The application will be reviewed to determine eligibility of applicant for testing, where applicable, and/or interviews, and the applicant will be notified. Following the closing date, applications will be reviewed and screened. The name of the recommended candidate(s) will be submitted to the Superintendent; the Superintendent will make the recommendation to the Governing Board. Following approval by the Governing Board, the individual selected should be able to start work.
The Nuview Union School District does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, gender equity, disability, or age in any of its policies, procedures, or practices, nor does it permit, condone, or allow sexual harassment of students or staff members. Any student or employee who is found guilty of sexual harassment shall be subject to disciplinary action. Inquiries regarding Federal laws and regulations should be directed to the District Title IX Coordinator:Director of Personnel, Nuview Union School District, 29780 Lakeview Avenue, Nuevo, CA 92567-9261, (909) 928-0066.
"Our Mandate is Excellence"
An Equal Opportunity - Affirmative Action Employer
Requirements / Qualifications
Comments and Other Information
License Required:
โ€ข Valid California Driver's License
โ€ข CA Commercial Drivers' License Class A or B with PS Endorsement
โ€ข School Bus Certificate with 1 and 6 only restrictions
โ€ข Current medical card and DL-51
โ€ข Current First Aid
โ€ข Print out from DMV K4
โ€ข TO-1 Card
โ€ข Random drug pull as required by CHP.