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Long Distance Bus Driver Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

DuPage County ROE

Bus Driver - Substitute

Wheaton, IL

$16 - $21.75/hr

Candidates who do not already possess a valid school bus permit and/or CDL will be considered as long as the candidate meets the prerequisite requirements of the Illinois Secretary of State for a ...

Futures Unlimited, Inc

Van/Bus Driver

Pontiac, IL

$16 - $18/hr

The Van/Bus Driver reports and is directly supervised by the Transportation Coordinator. The Van ... Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, peripheral ...

University of Findlay

Part Time Bus Driver

Campus, IL · On-site

$16.50 - $22.75/hr

The part time bus driver is responsible for the logistics and safety of transporting the students ... Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, peripheral ...

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All JobsLong Distance Bus Driver JobsLong Distance Bus Driver Jobs in Illinois

Long Distance Bus Driver information

See Illinois salary details

$8

$19

$27

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

As of Jul 31, 2026, the average hourly pay for long distance bus driver in Illinois is $19.19, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.82 and $21.68 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 Illinois? For Long Distance Bus Driver jobs in Illinois, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Long Distance Bus Driver jobs in Illinois look for? The top searched job categories for Long Distance Bus Driver jobs in Illinois are:
What cities in Illinois are hiring for Long Distance Bus Driver jobs? Cities in Illinois with the most Long Distance Bus Driver job openings:
Long Distance Bus Driver jobs near you
Infographic showing various Long Distance Bus Driver job openings in Illinois as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 72% Full Time, 22% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $39,922 per year, or $19.2 per hour.

BUS DRIVER

Chicago Heights School District 170

Chicago Heights, IL

$16.50 - $22.75/hr

Other

Re-posted 19 days ago

Job description

SCHOOL DISTRICT 170
CHICAGO HEIGHTS, ILLINOIS
TITLE:                Bus Driver
QUALIFICATIONS:        Must hold a clean Class 3 driver's license with a bus endorsement.  A Criminal Records Check will be required.
JOB SUMMARY:            The Bus Driver is responsible for safely operating the school bus according to a set daily schedule.  He/she must ensure that the school bus is in good operating condition at all times, pick-up and drop-off students as per the schedule, maintain order and security on the bus and obey all laws, regulations and rules of conduct.
The Bus Driver must also deal with residents and members of the public in a courteous and respectful manner.  This includes receiving complaints about schedules and levels of quality of service.  The Bus Driver must make note of and report on any such complaints and respond in a courteous and respectful manner.
It is crucial for the Bus Driver to operate the school bus in a safe manner.  Failure to ensure the safe passage of students to and from school may result in the loss of life, which would have tragic consequences for the community as a whole.
REPORTS TO:            Transportation Supervisor and other administrators.
SUPERVISES:            Bus assistant, if applicable.
TERMS OF EMPLOYMENT:    Salary, benefits and work year to be established by the Board of Education.
RESPONSIBILITIES:
1.    Operate the school bus in a safe and effective manner in order to minimize the risk of injury, property damage or loss of life.
Main Activities





























  • Operate the school bus in a safe and efficient way according to all relevant legislation, policies and procedures
  • Perform daily safety and maintenance checks
  • Clean bus as scheduled and/or required
  • Ensure the bus is safely and securely stored
  • Advise the Transportation Supervisor of any requirements to maintenance or repairs


2.    Maintain schedules and maintain order on the school bus.
Main Activities


  • Pick-up and deliver students as per a set schedule
  • Take attendance on the school bus
  • Ensure students are aware of rules and responsibilities as passengers
  • Maintain order and discipline on the school bus
  • Make note of any behavioral or disciplinary problems


3.    Perform other related duties.
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES
Knowledge
The Bus Driver must have proficient knowledge in the following areas:
 







  • Knowledge of highway and school bus regulations
  • Knowledge of how to deal with children
  • Knowledge of how to deal with children with special needs.
  • Knowledge of scheduling system and procedures
  • Knowledge of record keeping
  • Knowledge of equipment cleaning standards and procedures


Skills
The Bus Driver must demonstrate the following skills:
 



  • Ability to operate school bus in a safe and responsible manner
  • Client service and public interaction skills
  • Team building
  • Analytical and problem solving skills
  • Ability to read and write to record pick-ups and maintain daily records
  • Stress management skills
  • Time management skills


Personal Attributes
The Bus Driver must demonstrate the following personal attributes:
 






  • Be honest and trustworthy
  • Be respectful
  • Possess cultural awareness and sensitibity
  • Be flexible
  • Demonstrate sound work ethics
  • Deal with the public in a positive, courteous and respectful manner


WORKING CONDITIONS
Physical Demands
The Bus Driver has a moderately strenuous job.  The Bus Driver must sit for long periods and requires intense concentration, particularly in poor driving conditions.
Environmental Conditionn
The Bus Driver must work in all different weather conditions including extreme cold and extreme heat.
Mental Demands
The Bus Driver must maintain order and discipline on the bus while driving in a safe and appropriate manner.  Stress can be caused by the need to address behavior issues and discipline problems.
02/06/14
 






















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