ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

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

Brentwood School District

Bus Driver

Brentwood, MO · On-site

$25/hr

The Bus Driver safely transports students to and from school, extracurricular activities, and other ... Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, peripheral ...

Brentwood School District

Bus Driver

Saint Louis, MO

$25/hr

The Bus Driver safely transports students to and from school, extracurricular activities, and other ... Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, peripheral ...

Metro contract Services

Driver

Madison, IL · On-site

$25 - $30/hr

MCS is a steel fabrication/construction company that has an immediate opening for local and long distance CDL driver. What we do: Our company works in Millwright, Rigging, Turnkey Installations ...

Metro contract Services

Driver

Madison, IL · On-site

$25 - $30/hr

MCS is a steel fabrication/construction company that has an immediate opening for local and long distance CDL driver. What we do: Our company works in Millwright, Rigging, Turnkey Installations ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

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

Long Distance Bus Driver information

See Madison, IL salary details

$8

$18

$27

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

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for long distance bus driver in Madison, IL is $18.87, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.58 and $21.30 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 job categories do people searching Long Distance Bus Driver jobs in Madison, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Long Distance Bus Driver jobs in Madison, IL are:
What cities near Madison, IL are hiring for Long Distance Bus Driver jobs? Cities near Madison, IL with the most Long Distance Bus Driver job openings:
Long Distance Bus Driver jobs near you

Bus Driver

Brentwood School District

Brentwood, MO • On-site

$25/hr

Full-time

Posted 19 days ago

Job description

Position Type:
Maintenance/Custodial
Date Posted:
7/9/2026
Location:
Multiple Brentwood Schools
Date Available:
08/24/2026
JOB/POSITION SUMMARY:
The Bus Driver safely transports students to and from school, extracurricular activities, and other district-sponsored events while maintaining a safe, orderly, and positive environment on the school bus. The Bus Driver performs daily vehicle inspections, complies with all federal, state, and district transportation regulations, and promotes the safety and well-being of all passengers.
REPORTS TO:
Athletic/Activities Director
EMPLOYMENT TERMS:
$25 per Hour. At-will employment based on annual evaluation in accordance with this job description. FLSA Status: Non-Exempt.
Qualifications
EDUCATION AND/OR EXPERIENCE:
  • High school diploma or equivalent preferred.
  • Previous experience operating commercial vehicles or school buses preferred, but not required.
  • Ability to work effectively with students, staff, and families.

CERTIFICATES, LICENSES, REGISTRATIONS:
  • Valid Missouri Commercial Driver's License (CDL) with Passenger (P) and School Bus (S) endorsements or the ability to obtain before employment.
  • Valid Missouri School Bus Permit.
  • Current Department of Transportation (DOT) Medical Examiner's Certificate.
  • Meet all Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE), Missouri Department of Revenue (DOR), and Department of Transportation (DOT) requirements for school bus drivers.
  • Successful completion of all required background checks, drug and alcohol testing, and annual training requirements.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
  • Safely transport students to and from school, field trips, athletic events, and other district-sponsored activities.
  • Conduct required pre-trip and post-trip inspections of the assigned bus and promptly report mechanical concerns or safety hazards.
  • Maintain orderly student behavior on the bus in accordance with district policies and procedures.
  • Ensure students are loaded, transported, and unloaded safely at designated stops.
  • Follow established routes and schedules while adjusting for weather, traffic, or emergency conditions as directed.
  • Maintain accurate transportation records, mileage logs, inspection reports, and student incident documentation as required.
  • Keep the assigned bus clean and presentable inside and out.
  • Maintain effective communication with transportation staff, school administrators, and parents regarding transportation concerns.
  • Participate in required safety meetings, in-service training, and professional development.
  • Report accidents, injuries, unsafe conditions, or student discipline concerns immediately following district procedures.
  • Follow all district policies, Missouri school transportation regulations, and federal transportation laws.
  • Perform other transportation-related duties as assigned by the Director of Facilities or designee.

REASONING ABILITY:
  • Ability to solve practical problems and deal with a variety of situations independently

COMMUNICATION SKILLS:
  • Ability to establish and maintain effective relationships with students, staff, and parents through oral communication

TECHNICAL SKILLS:
  • Proficient use of various cleaning equipment
  • Requires the ability to read & interpret documents such as operating & maintenance instructions, procedures, safety rules, etc.

OTHER SKILLS AND ABILITIES:
  • Ability to perform duties independently with awareness of school/district expectations/requirements
  • Management of safety procedures/protocols for potential risky building conditions

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:
  • Requires prolonged standing and considerable walking on level surfaces as well as climbing up and down stairs and equipment
  • Requires physical exertion to manually move, lift, carry, pull or push heavy objects or materials
  • Ability to lift 50 lbs unassisted
  • Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, peripheral vision, and the ability to read small print
  • Ability to frequently bend, stoop, reach above the head, as well as forward, and use fine motor skills
  • Requires the full range of motion with neck, shoulders, elbows, wrists, back, torso, knees and ankles
  • Must maintain appropriate levels of personal hygiene and sanitation and follow district guidelines regarding dress code

ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS:
  • Must work in noisy, stressful, and crowded environments
  • Must work in and around chemical odors, and with cleaning chemicals, solvents and disinfectants
  • Must work indoors and outdoors year-round
  • The employee must often meet deadlines and must report to duty assignments on time
  • The work environment includes exposure to sunlight; risk of being bitten by animals or insects; exposure to environmental allergens (grass, weeds, pollen, and trees) and occasional exposure to solvents, degreasers, pesticides, and/or herbicides

Apply