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Long Distance Bus Driver Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

2 Guys and a Van

Local Mover/Driver

Franklin Park, IL · On-site

$25 - $27/hr

No CDL required. Home every night. Local moves only. What We Offer: * $25-$27/hr starting pay ... Local work only -- no long-distance . * Steady summer work. Job Duties: * Drive 16' automatic box ...

Pace Bus

Full Time Bus Operator

Evanston, IL · On-site

$25.60/hr

... Drivers license. Must have a good work history and a record of safe driving (5 years). Must ... Must be able to work long hours, split shifts and weekends. Pace is an Equal Opportunity Employer ...

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All JobsLong Distance Bus Driver JobsLong Distance Bus Driver Jobs in Chicago, IL

Long Distance Bus Driver information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$8

$20

$29

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

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for long distance bus driver in Chicago, IL is $20.40, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.83 and $23.03 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 Chicago, IL?

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

What job categories do people searching Long Distance Bus Driver jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Long Distance Bus Driver jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Long Distance Bus Driver jobs?

Cities near Chicago, IL 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 Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,167 per year, or $19.8 per hour.

School Van Driver

Lincolnshire-Prairie View District 103

Lincolnshire, IL • On-site

$27.06/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Life

Posted 8 days ago

Job description

School Bus Driver

Driver Requirements: Possess or able to obtain a valid School Bus Permit as required by Illinois law (required before training can begin). Successful completion of a school bus driver physical (paid for by district). Successfully pass a pre-employment and random drug and alcohol testing. Successfully pass state and federal background check. Attend annual school bus driver refresher class as required by Illinois law. Complete First Aid & CPR training (provided by district). Open to ongoing professional development. Valid driver's license. Be at least 21 years of age. Be comfortable securing small children in child safety securement systems.

Essential Job Functions: Operate the school van in a safe and effective manner in order to minimize the risk of injury, property damage or loss of life. Dependable attendance is an essential function for this position. Ability to read and interpret documents such as safety rules and procedure manuals. Operate the school van in a safe and efficient way according to all relevant legislation, policies and procedures. Maintain schedules and maintain order on the school van. Follow all district transportation protocols and procedures. Perform other duties as assigned by the Transportation Supervisor. Ensure the van is safely and securely stored. Ability to work well with students including students with special needs. Ability to work well with students with mild to severe disabilities, physical and/or emotional needs. Other duties as assigned.

Physical Demands: Ability to work in all different weather conditions including extreme cold and extreme heat. Climbing up to 3 foot height up to six times a day. Reaching arms distance multiple times a day, walking up to 30 minutes a day on distance up to 100 feet at a time. Sitting five hours per day on a cushioned van seat while operating school van. Ability to crawl from driver's seat to side passenger sliding door in event of emergency. Hearing and speaking to exchange information; seeing to perform assigned duties; sitting for extended periods of time; dexterity of hands and fingers to operate a van; kneeling, bending at the waist, and reaching overhead, above the shoulders and horizontally to perform assigned duties; lifting heavy children in and out of restricted spaces.

Uniform: District/department shirts will be provided. Driver will provide own khaki pants or shorts. No open toe shoes or sandals/slides allowed.

Job Summary: This position is for a 9 month employee (with summer possibilities) Education/Experience: High School diploma or equivalent required Reports to: Director of Transportation Work Schedule (Approximately): Monday - Friday (on student attendance days - 9 months) Guaranteed 7 hours/day Midday work available! Starting Pay: $27.06/hour Benefits: Medical, Dental, Basic Term Life Insurance, IMRF

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