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Long Distance Bus Driver Jobs in North Carolina (NOW HIRING)

Bus Driver

Burgaw, NC ยท On-site

$15 - $20.50/hr

Bus Driver PRIMARY FUNCTION: To drive a school bus as assigned and ensure the safety and care of ... Sit for long periods while driving * Observe general surroundings and activities for safe ...

Bus Driver

Burgaw, NC ยท On-site

$15 - $20.50/hr

Bus Driver PRIMARY FUNCTION: To drive a school bus as assigned and ensure the safety and care of ... Sit for long periods while driving * Observe general surroundings and activities for safe ...

Bus Driver

Burgaw, NC ยท On-site

$15 - $20.50/hr

Bus Driver PRIMARY FUNCTION: To drive a school bus as assigned and ensure the safety and care of ... Sit for long periods while driving * Observe general surroundings and activities for safe ...

Bus Driver

Waxhaw, NC ยท On-site

$15.25 - $21/hr

SCHOOL BUS DRIVER Under general supervision, operates a school bus on assigned route(s) and ... Hearing a forced whispered voice in the better ear at a distance of five feet is considered ...

Bus Driver

Durham, NC

$16.50 - $22.50/hr

Summary Operating Title Bus Driver Long Classification Title Campus Location Durham Department UNH Transportation Services Administration Summary of Position Under the general supervision of a ...

BUS DRIVER SUBSTITUTE

Louisburg, NC ยท On-site

$14.50 - $20/hr

SCHOOL BUS DRIVER Under general supervision, operates a school bus on assigned route(s) and ... Hearing a forced whispered voice in the better ear at a distance of five feet is considered ...

The Driver must sit for long periods and requires intense concentration, particularly in poor driving conditions. * The School Bus Driver must work in all different weather conditions including ...

PT Bus Driver (Pool)

Raleigh, NC ยท On-site

$16.50 - $22.50/hr

Maintains bus cleanliness after each trip by ensure all passengers remove their trash. * Report any ... Committed to course of action to achieve long-range goals and influences others to translate vision ...

CDL Bus Driver

Asheville, NC ยท On-site

$16/hr

CDL Bus Drivers Wanted French Broad Adventures is hiring CDL bus drivers for the upcoming 2024 ... Drivers must be comfortable sitting or standing for long periods, driving in various weather ...

PT Bus Driver (Pool)

Raleigh, NC

$16.50 - $22.50/hr

Maintains bus cleanliness after each trip by ensure all passengers remove their trash. * Report any ... Committed to course of action to achieve long-range goals and influences others to translate vision ...

CDL Bus Driver

Wilmington, NC ยท On-site

$16 - $18/hr

QUALIFICATIONS: 1. Minimum one year work experience as a bus driver. 2. Possess appropriate class ... PHYSICAL DEMANDS 1. Ability to safely drive a bus for long periods of time. 2. Ability to respond ...

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Long Distance Bus Driver information

See North Carolina salary details

$7

$18

$25

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

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for long distance bus driver in North Carolina is $18.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.86 and $20.34 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a long distance bus driver?

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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a long distance bus driver?

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 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.

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.

How much does a long distance bus driver make?

A long distance bus driver typically earns between $40,000 and $70,000 annually, depending on experience, employer, and region. They often work long hours and may need a commercial driver's license (CDL) and safety training to qualify.

What disqualifies you from being a long distance bus driver?

Long distance bus drivers are typically disqualified if they have a valid commercial driver's license (CDL) with the appropriate endorsements, a clean driving record, and pass medical and background checks. Factors such as a history of DUI, drug violations, or serious traffic offenses can also disqualify candidates. Additionally, they must meet age requirements and be able to handle long hours and overnight schedules safely.

What are popular job titles related to Long Distance Bus Driver jobs in North Carolina?

For Long Distance Bus Driver jobs in North Carolina, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities in North Carolina are hiring for Long Distance Bus Driver jobs?

Cities in North Carolina with the most Long Distance Bus Driver job openings:

Infographic showing various Long Distance Bus Driver job openings in North Carolina as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 7% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $37,440 per year, or $18 per hour.

$15 - $20.50/hr

Other

Re-posted 18 days ago


Job description

Position Type:
Classified/Bus Driver
Date Posted:
9/3/2025
Location:
PCS Transportation Department
Date Available:
ASAP
Closing Date:
Until Filled
TITLE: Bus Driver
PRIMARY FUNCTION: To drive a school bus as assigned and ensure the safety and care of students boarding, riding, and departing school buses
SALARY GRADE: Bus Driver Salary Schedule
TERMS OF EMPLOYMENT: 10 Months
FLSA STATUS: Non-Exempt
OSHA: The employee is not required to handle human body fluids, biological agents, laboratory chemicals, or hazardous materials
ADA: The employer will make reasonable accommodations to enable individuals with disabilities to perform
QUALIFICATIONS:
Licensing/Certification:
  • Valid North Carolina Driver's License with a good driving record
  • Commercial Driver's License (CDL) with passenger school bus endorsement and a current Driver's Pocket Card
Education:
  • High School Diploma required
Experience:
  • Demonstrated ability to operate a school bus safely and effectively
  • Working knowledge of methods to engage effectively with children
  • Any combination of education and experience that demonstrates possession of the requisite knowledge, skills, and abilities
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:
  • Drive a school bus as assigned while observing all safety regulations and traffic laws
  • Ensure students board and disembark at authorized school or bus stop locations
  • Maintain cleanliness of the bus to ensure a safe and sanitary environment
  • Complete required reports accurately and submit them promptly
  • Report all accidents in accordance with the Transportation Department's procedures
  • Maintain discipline and ensure the safety of students on the bus
  • Perform additional duties as assigned by supervisors
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES:
  • Considerable knowledge of safe and efficient practices for school bus operations
  • Understanding of traffic laws and school bus safety regulations
  • Ability to maintain discipline and interact positively with students, parents/guardians, and school staff
  • Basic knowledge of child development and expected behavior at different stages
  • Capacity to complete required reports and maintain accurate records
  • Tact, courtesy, and professionalism in dealing with students, parents, and staff
REPORTS TO: Transportation Director / Principal
PHYSICAL DEMANDS:
The employee must be able to:
  • Operate a school bus and other vehicles as needed
  • Climb, lift, reach, stoop, kneel, and stand for extended periods
  • Sit for long periods while driving
  • Observe general surroundings and activities for safe operations
  • Perform tasks requiring manual dexterity and visual inspection of small parts
WORK ENVIRONMENT:
  • The employee regulary works in outdoor and vehicle environments, including exposure to varying weather conditions
  • Noise levels may range from minimal to moderate depending on the situation
  • Daily contact with students, staff, and parents is required.

This job description will be reviewed periodically as duties and responsibilities change with business necessity. Essential and marginal job functions are subject to modification.
Created 12/4/2024 essential job functions in compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990. This job description will be reviewed periodically as duties and responsibilities change with business necessity
Attachment(s):
  • PCS Bus Driver Job Description