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Long Distance Bus Driver Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Long Beach School District

Bus Driver

Long Beach, CA · On-site

$18.25 - $25/hr

School Bus Driver Job Summary: The purpose of the School Bus Driver is to be responsible for transporting students on a school bus. The School Bus Driver is the first person to greet students on ...

Tanimura & Antle

Bus Driver

Salinas, CA · On-site

$20/hr

The Farm Labor Bus Driver safely operates a commercial bus to transport employees to and from ... Requires close, distance, and color vision. * Exposure to outdoor weather, mechanical parts, and ...

Tanimura & Antle

Bus Driver

Salinas, CA · On-site

$20/hr

The Farm Labor Bus Driver safely operates a commercial bus to transport employees to and from ... Requires close, distance, and color vision. * Exposure to outdoor weather, mechanical parts, and ...

Tanimura and Antle

Bus Driver

Salinas, CA

$18.25 - $25/hr

The Farm Labor Bus Driver safely operates a commercial bus to transport employees to and from ... Requires close, distance, and color vision. * Exposure to outdoor weather, mechanical parts, and ...

Humboldt County Office of Education

Bus Driver

Eureka, CA · On-site

$22.76 - $33.63/hr

Position Summary Under general supervision, the school bus driver is responsible for safely ... Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, night/dusk ...

Los Olivos School District

Bus Driver

Los Olivos, CA · On-site

$21.84 - $26.54/hr

... as long distances, operate mobile motorized equipment and drive a vehicle. WORK ENVIRONMENT ... Bus Driver's law and be insurable by the District's liability insurance carrier; must pass pre ...

Ventura Unified School District

Bus Driver

Ventura, CA

$27.11 - $32.84/hr

Bus Driver at Ventura Unified School District Share on X Print Application Deadline 8/31/2026 11:55 ... has long enjoyed a legacy as an outstanding place to live, work and raise a family. Our public ...

First Class Charter

Bus Driver

Hayward, CA · On-site

$175/day

Your driving times can vary but won't ever exceed 4-6 hours per day since the distance to the ... All Drivers must have a valid commercial class A or B licenses with passenger & AirBrake ...

College of the Siskiyous

Bus Driver

Weed, CA

$38.53/hr

Bus Driver at College of the Siskiyous Share on X Print Application Deadline Continuous Date Posted ... In Yreka, a variety of transfer, general education, vocational, continuing education, distance ...

FIRST CLASS CHARTER INC

Bus Driver

Hayward, CA

$175/day

Your driving times can vary but won't ever exceed 4-6 hours per day since the distance to the ... All Drivers must have a valid commercial class A or B licenses with passenger & AirBrake ...

Ventura Unified School District

Bus Driver

Ventura, CA · On-site

$27.11 - $32.84/hr

About the Employer For the future of every student Ventura Unified has long enjoyed a legacy as an ... driver's license with passenger, school bus and air brake endorsements and a valid California ...

FIRST CLASS CHARTER INC

Bus Driver

Hayward, CA · On-site

$175/day

Your driving times can vary but won't ever exceed 4-6 hours per day since the distance to the ... All Drivers must have a valid commercial class A or B licenses with passenger & AirBrake ...

FIRST CLASS CHARTER INC

Bus Driver

Hayward, CA

$175/day

Your driving times can vary but won't ever exceed 4-6 hours per day since the distance to the ... All Drivers must have a valid commercial class A or B licenses with passenger & AirBrake ...

Transdev

Bus Driver

San Diego, CA · On-site

$23/hr

Bus Driver We are currently on the lookout for an experienced Bus Driver to join our elite PARA ... Sit for extended periods (up to 6-8 hours per day); frequently walk for long distances and on ...

Transdev

Bus Driver

San Diego, CA

$23/hr

Bus Driver We are currently on the lookout for an experienced Bus Driver to join our elite PARA ... Sit for extended periods (up to 6-8 hours per day); frequently walk for long distances and on ...

Transdev

Bus Driver

San Diego, CA

$23/hr

Bus Driver We are currently on the lookout for an experienced Bus Driver to join our elite PARA ... Sit for extended periods (up to 6-8 hours per day); frequently walk for long distances and on ...

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All JobsLong Distance Bus Driver JobsLong Distance Bus Driver Jobs in California

Long Distance Bus Driver information

See California salary details

$8

$19

$28

How much do long distance bus driver jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for long distance 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 disqualifies you from being a bus driver?

Long distance bus drivers are typically disqualified if they have a poor driving record, including multiple traffic violations or DUIs, or if they fail background checks. Additionally, they must meet age requirements, pass medical exams, and hold a valid commercial driver's license (CDL) with the appropriate endorsements. Substance abuse issues or inability to meet physical and mental health standards can also disqualify candidates.

What is the longest a bus driver can drive?

Long-distance bus drivers are typically limited to driving no more than 10 hours per shift, with a maximum of 15 hours including rest periods, according to federal regulations. Drivers must also take mandatory rest breaks to ensure safety and compliance with hours-of-service rules.

What are some common challenges faced by long distance bus drivers, and how are they managed?

Long distance bus drivers often encounter challenges such as fatigue from extended hours on the road, maintaining passenger safety, and adapting to varying weather or traffic conditions. To manage these, companies typically enforce regulated rest breaks, provide training on safe driving practices, and support drivers with real-time route updates. Drivers also work closely with dispatch and customer service teams to address passenger needs and ensure a smooth journey.

How much do long distance bus drivers get paid?

Long distance bus drivers typically earn between $40,000 and $70,000 annually, depending on experience, company, and region. They often work long hours and may receive additional pay for overnight trips or overtime, with some positions offering benefits such as health insurance and retirement plans.

What are long distance bus drivers?

Long distance bus drivers are professional drivers responsible for transporting passengers safely over extended routes that often span cities, states, or even countries. They operate large motorcoaches or buses, following specific schedules and making stops along the way. Their duties include ensuring passenger safety, adhering to traffic laws, assisting with luggage, and sometimes providing customer service during the journey. Long distance bus drivers may work irregular hours, including nights, weekends, and holidays. They are required to hold a commercial driver's license (CDL) and often undergo additional training for passenger transport.

What is the difference between Long Distance Bus Driver vs School Bus Driver?

AspectLong Distance Bus DriverSchool Bus Driver
Required CertificationsCommercial Driver's License (CDL) with passenger endorsementCommercial Driver's License (CDL) with passenger endorsement
Work EnvironmentLong hours on highways, traveling between cities or statesDaily routes within local areas, primarily on school grounds and city streets
Employer & IndustryTransportation companies, charter services, or school districts for long-haul tripsSchool districts or private schools for daily student transportation
Common Search & ComparisonLong Distance Bus Driver vs School Bus Driver

While both roles require a CDL with passenger endorsement and involve transporting passengers, Long Distance Bus Drivers typically travel longer distances across states or countries, often working on scheduled routes for extended periods. School Bus Drivers focus on daily local routes, primarily transporting students within a school district. The work environment, schedule, and travel scope are the main differences between these two roles.

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

To thrive as a Long Distance Bus Driver, you need a valid commercial driver's license (CDL), a clean driving record, and strong knowledge of road safety regulations. Familiarity with GPS navigation systems, electronic logging devices, and vehicle inspection procedures is typically required. Excellent communication, patience, and customer service skills help drivers manage passenger needs and handle unexpected situations on the road. These competencies ensure the safe, timely, and comfortable transport of passengers over long distances while maintaining compliance with industry standards.

What is the highest paying bus driver job?

Long distance bus drivers who operate for private charter companies, luxury tour services, or specialized transportation firms tend to earn the highest salaries, often exceeding the average for standard bus drivers. Factors such as experience, certifications, and the complexity of routes can also influence pay rates in this field.
What are popular job titles related to Long Distance Bus Driver jobs in California? For Long Distance Bus Driver jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Long Distance Bus Driver jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Long Distance Bus Driver jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Long Distance Bus Driver jobs? Cities in California with the most Long Distance Bus Driver job openings:
Long Distance Bus Driver jobs near you
Bus Driver

Bus Driver

Long Beach School District

Long Beach, CA • On-site

$18.25 - $25/hr

Full-time

Posted 23 days ago

Job description

Position Type:
Transportation/Bus Driver
Date Posted:
1/1/2022
Location:
Transportation
Job Title: School Bus Driver
Job Summary: The purpose of the School Bus Driver is to be responsible for transporting students on a
school bus. The School Bus Driver is the first person to greet students on their journey to school each day,
and they are the last person the students see in the afternoon. It is imperative for this person to have a good
disposition when working alongside students. The School Bus Driver must make note of and report on
unsafe bus activity to the Transportation Director.
Reports to: Transportation Director
Payment Rate: Bus driver payment schedule
Essential Functions:
Operate the school bus in a safe and effective manner in order to minimize the risk of injury, property
damage or loss of life.
Assume responsibility for the safety of school children in loading, unloading, and transporting students to
and from school.
Instruct children in safety precautions and practices. Drive safely and follow all traffic laws at all times.
Keep a consistent schedule of pick up and drop off of students in the mornings and afternoon.
Complete various forms and records, including updated route sheets, time sheets, incident and accident
reports, and etcetera.
Have consistent procedures to maintain discipline on the bus (i.e., assigned seats).
Be a good role model for students of all ages. Display a positive demeanor when interacting with children.
Ensure the bus is safely and securely stored.
Other responsibilities assigned by administration.
Physical Requirements/Environmental Condition:
The Driver must sit for prolonged periods and requires intense concentration, particularly in poor driving
conditions.
Qualifications:
At least a B license with a P and an S endorsement. Pass DOT physical fitness exam, including but not
limited to assisting students on/off bus and leaping off the back of the bus in a timely manner in case of an
emergency.
Clearances: Criminal Justice Fingerprint/Background Clearance

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