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Mini Bus Driver Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Shuttle Driver

Fontana, CA Β· On-site

$18.03 - $24.80/hr

The Shuttle/Mini Bus Driver will drive Water of Life vehicles to transport guests from remote parking lots in mini buses/shuttles along city streets and in trams within designated parking locations.

CDL Shuttle Bus Driver - Bay Area CA

Fremont, CA Β· On-site

$19.75 - $24.75/hr

Hallcon is hiring seasoned Drivers to join our energetic team supporting a campus-wide commuter ... We offer routes in a 10 passenger Ford Transit Van and a 14 passenger Mini Bus Shuttle Key ...

Bus Driver (Part-Time)

Carson, CA Β· On-site

$31.33 - $39.99/hr

Drive a variety of public transportation vehicles including buses of various sizes, mini-buses and ... Yes * No 06 Do you have experience working for a public agency as a Bus Driver? If yes, please ...

Bus Driver (Part-Time)

Carson, CA Β· On-site

$31.33 - $39.99/hr

... sizes, mini-buses and handicapped buses, transporting citizens to designated locations in ... Maintain records and logs related to bus maintenance, safety and operation; prepare weekly monthly ...

Hallcon is hiring seasoned Drivers to join our energetic team supporting a campus-wide commuter ... We offer routes in a 10 passenger Ford Transit Van and a 14 passenger Mini Bus Shuttle Key ...

Mini Bus Driver information

See California salary details

$8

$19

$28

How much do mini bus driver jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for mini 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 is a mini bus driver?

Mini Bus Drivers are professional drivers responsible for transporting groups of passengers in vehicles smaller than standard buses, typically accommodating between 8 and 30 people. Their duties include ensuring passenger safety, following designated routes and schedules, conducting routine vehicle inspections, and assisting passengers as needed. Mini Bus Drivers often work for schools, tour companies, private organizations, or public transit systems. They must hold the appropriate driver’s license and may require additional certifications depending on the employer and region.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be a mini bus driver?

To thrive as a Mini Bus Driver, you need a valid commercial or passenger vehicle driving license, safe driving skills, and a good understanding of traffic laws. Familiarity with GPS navigation systems, basic vehicle maintenance, and sometimes a Passenger Carrying Vehicle (PCV) license are typically required. Excellent communication, patience, and customer service skills help drivers interact positively with passengers and handle unexpected situations. These skills and qualifications ensure safe, reliable, and pleasant transportation experiences for all passengers.

What challenges do mini bus drivers face during their daily routes?

Mini bus drivers often encounter challenges such as navigating through heavy traffic, adhering to tight schedules, and ensuring the safety and comfort of all passengers, including those with special needs. They must remain patient and attentive, especially when dealing with unpredictable road conditions or last-minute route changes. Good communication skills are essential, as drivers frequently interact with passengers, parents, and school or organization staff to coordinate pick-ups and drop-offs smoothly.

What is the difference between Mini Bus Driver vs Shuttle Driver?

AspectMini Bus DriverShuttle Driver
CredentialsDriver's license (often commercial)Driver's license (often commercial)
Work EnvironmentTransporting small groups, tours, or school tripsTransporting passengers on scheduled routes, airports, hotels
Industry UsageTourism, education, private transportHospitality, corporate, airport shuttles

Mini Bus Drivers and Shuttle Drivers both require similar licenses and often work in passenger transport. Mini Bus Drivers typically operate smaller buses for tours or private groups, while Shuttle Drivers focus on scheduled routes like airports or hotels. Both roles are essential in passenger transportation industries, but their specific environments and routes differ.

What disqualifies you from being a mini bus driver?

Disqualifications for a mini bus driver typically include having a valid driver's license with the appropriate class, a clean driving record, and passing background checks. Additionally, failing to meet age requirements, having certain medical conditions, or lacking necessary certifications such as a commercial driver's license (CDL) can disqualify candidates.

What do I need to be a mini bus driver?

To become a mini bus driver, you typically need a valid driver's license appropriate for commercial vehicles, often a special passenger endorsement, and a clean driving record. Some regions require a background check, a medical exam, and completion of a driver training program. Additionally, good communication skills and knowledge of safety regulations are important for this role.

What kind of license do you need to drive a mini bus?

Mini bus drivers typically need a commercial driver's license (CDL) with a passenger endorsement, which allows them to operate vehicles designed to carry more than 16 passengers. Requirements may vary by region, and drivers often need to pass written and skills tests, as well as meet age and health criteria. Additional certifications or training may be required for specific types of mini buses or transportation services.

What type of mini bus driver makes the most money?

Experienced mini bus drivers who operate for private companies, corporate clients, or specialized services such as airport shuttles or tour companies tend to earn higher wages. Drivers with commercial driver’s licenses (CDL), additional certifications, or those working in high-demand areas often make more money. Salary can also increase with years of experience and additional responsibilities like managing routes or training new drivers.

What are the most commonly searched types of Mini Bus Driver jobs in California?

The most popular types of Mini Bus Driver jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Mini Bus Driver jobs in California?

For Mini Bus Driver jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities in California are hiring for Mini Bus Driver jobs?

Cities in California with the most Mini Bus Driver job openings:

Infographic showing various Mini Bus Driver job openings in California as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 43% Full Time, and 57% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $40,658 per year, or $19.5 per hour.

MINI-BUS DRIVER (FULL-TIME)

Riverside, CA β€’ On-site

$24.60 - $27.12/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 10 days ago


Job description

Salary: $24.60 - $27.12 Hourly
Location : Riverside, CA
Job Type: Full-time
Job Number: 26-3952-02
Department: Park & Recreation
Division: Park & Rec-Admin-Spec Trans
Opening Date: 09/03/2026
Closing Date: 10/7/2026 11:59 PM Pacific
The Position
The City of Riverside is accepting applications for the position of Mini-Bus Driverto fill multiple vacancies in the Special Transit Division of the Parks, Recreation, and Community Services DepartmentThe eligibility list established may be used to fill the current and/or upcoming vacancies within this classification for up to six (6) months.
The Mini-Bus Driver operates, drives, and assists in the maintenance of a mini-bus to transport senior citizens and disabled individuals on request from a manifest.
Work Performed
Duties may include, but are not limited to, the following:
  • Locate persons desiring service as indicated on the manifest or mobile digital computer, and transport them to their destination; provide safe and competent transport.
  • Assist elderly and disabled persons in boarding and leaving the bus as needed; answer questions and inquiries from program participants and individuals attempting the use of transportation.
  • Operate a wheelchair lift if the bus is so equipped.
  • Maintain load factor information on patrons for the safe and efficient operation of the mini-bus.
  • Maintain a clean and orderly bus ensuring that the vehicle is ready for service.
  • Report and deliver Minibus to the garage for repair and major maintenance work; perform minor maintenance, gauge evaluation, and fluid level check.
  • Operate a mobile radio and maintain strong communication with dispatcher's and other staff and individuals assisting with transport.
  • Collect and account for fares; perform general mathematics and assist patrons with fees and discrepancies.
  • Complete incident and accident report forms as necessary.
  • Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications
Education: High School graduation or satisfactory equivalent (GED)
Experience:One (1) year of full-time experience in the operation of a mini-bus, or similar public transit vehicle to transport passengers to their destination.
Necessary Special Requirements:
  • Possession of an appropriate, valid Class A or B California Motor Vehicle Operator's License with Passenger Endorsement.
  • Possession of an appropriate, valid Special Driver Certificate issued by the California Highway Patrol (CHP) within three (3) months from the time of appointment. The following Special Driver Certificates are accepted: Vehicle for Developmentally Disabled Persons (VDDP), School Pupil Activity Bus (SPAB) Certificate or School Bus Driver Certificate.

Highly Desired Qualifications:
  • Experience transporting the elderly and/or disabled.
  • Ability to work a flexible schedule which includes day, night, weekends, holidays, and split shifts.

Selection Process
DOCUMENTS REQUIRED AT THE TIME OF APPLICATION:
1) Completed Employment Application
2) Completed Supplemental Questionnaire
3) Current Special Drivers Certificate (if applicable).
  • Vehicle for Developmentally Disabled Persons (VDDP)
  • School Pupil Activity Bus (SPAB) Certificate
  • School Bus Driver Certificate

FOR GENERAL INFORMATION ON COMPLETING YOUR ON-LINE APPLICATION, CLICK HERE: (Application Guide).
The selection process will begin with an employment application package screening, with the best qualified candidates being invited to participate further in the assessment process. This process may include any combination of written, performance, and oral assessments to evaluate job-related education, experience, knowledge, skills, and abilities. Those who successfully complete the selection process will be placed on the eligibility list for this classification.
IMPORTANT INFORMATION ON SCHEDULING ASSESSMENTS:If you are selected to move forward in the assessment process, you may be required to self-schedule your appointment. You will be notified via email of your status and provided with self-scheduling instructions. Please check your email regularly following the closing date of this recruitment.
Positions that require, or may require, a are considered Safety Sensitive and are monitored by the U.S. Department of Transportation. Any candidate being considered for a Safety Sensitive position must submit authorization forms to the City immediately upon request to begin the pre-employment process.
It is the responsibility of candidates with a disability requiring accommodation in the assessment process to contact the Human Resources Department in writing to request such accommodation prior to the closing date of this recruitment.
Appointment may be subject to the successful completion of a pre-employment background investigation, drug screen, and/or medical/physical examination.
NOTE: The City reserves the right to modify selection devices and test instruments in accordance with accepted legal, ethical, and professional standards. Candidates may reapply when there is a posting to establish an eligibility list.
EDUCATIONAL REQUIREMENTS: Proof of education listed in your application will be requested at the time of conditional offer. Acceptable documentation consists of transcripts or degree, if applicable, by the accredited U.S. college or university.
Education obtained outside the United States (US) require one of the following options:
  1. An equivalency statement from an evaluation company certified by the National Association of Credential Evaluation Services (NACES) at or the Association of International Credential Evaluators Inc. (AICE) at .
  2. An advanced-level degree from an accredited US college or university.

All applicants will be notified via e-mail or telephone of their application status and the assessment dates/times/locations after the closing date of this announcement.
THE PROVISIONS OF THIS JOB ANNOUNCEMENT DO NOT CONSTITUTE AN EXPRESSED OR IMPLIED CONTRACT.

Service Employees International Union (SEIU) - General Unit
The City offers an attractive benefits package, the central provisions of which are as follows:
  • Retirement for Classic Members - For employees hired after 1/1/2013 who are CLASSIC MEMBERS of California Public Employees' Retirement System (CalPERS) or a reciprocal agency as of 12/31/12 and have not been separated from service from such agency for six months or more, the retirement benefit shall be 2.7 % @ age 55; 3-year final compensation. The required employee contribution is 8%. The City does not participate in Social Security; thus, employees do not bear this additional 6.2% expense.
  • Retirement for New Members - For employees hired 1/1/2013 or later and who ARE NOT a member of the California Public Employees' Retirement System (CalPERS) or a reciprocal agency as of 12/31/12, or those who have been separated from a public agency which contracts with CalPERS or a reciprocal agency for six months or more, the retirement benefit shall be 2% at age 62; 3 year final compensation. The required employee contribution is 50% of the normal cost and is subject to change per CalPERS every fiscal year. The City does not participate in Social Security; thus, employees do not bear this additional 6.2% expense.
  • Health Insurance - The City offers six health insurance plans and contributes up to $1,687 per month for HMO plans (family coverage).
  • Dental Insurance - The City provides three dental insurance plans and contributes up to $85 per month.
  • Vision Insurance - The City provides vision coverage through Vision Service Plan (VSP) for employees and their dependents that are enrolled in medical coverage.
  • Life Insurance - The City provides and pays for term life insurance equal to $100,000. Additional Life Insurance is available and voluntary for employees and eligible dependents (up to $300k).
  • Deferred Compensation - The City contributes $50 a month with a minimum employee contribution of $12.50 per check. Participation in the deferred compensation plan is optional.
  • Leave Benefits - Includes vacation leave, sick leave, bereavement leave, and holiday benefits. Please refer to the SEIU MOU for specific details.
  • Flexible Spending Account - The City offers a Health Care and Dependent Care Flexible Spending Plan for optional participation.
  • State Disability Insurance - Automatic coverage administered by the Employee Development Department (EDD) of the State of California
  • Vacation Accrual - 0-4 yrs. = 80hrs, 5-9 yrs. = 120hrs, 10+ yrs. = 160 hrs.

For other special compensation, refer to the
For additional benefits information, please visit the following website:
For part-time, benefitted positions the insurance and other benefits (leave accruals, holidays, etc.) are pro-rated based on Β½ or ΒΎ time status.
01
Instructions: The information on the application and your responses to the following supplemental questions will be used to determine whether you meet the minimum and/or highly desirable qualifications for the position in which you are applying. Detailed responses must be provided for each question in order to ensure qualifications are properly considered.
(*Do not refer to a resume in lieu of completing the supplemental questions).
Employers listed on this questionnaire must also be listed and fully detailed in the work experience section of your application.
  • I understand.

02
Please indicate the highest level of education that you have completed.
  • Less than a High School Diploma
  • High School diploma or GED
  • Some college (up to 59 semester units or 89 quarter units)
  • Associate's degree (60 semester or 90 quarter units)
  • Bachelor's degree (120 semester or 180 quarter units)
  • Master's degree
  • PhD

03
How many years of full-time experience do you possess in the operation of a mini-bus, or similar public transit vehicle to transport passengers to their destination?
  • None.
  • Less than one (1) year.
  • One (1) year or more.

04
Do you possess an appropriate, valid Class A or B California Motor Vehicle Operator's License with Passenger Endorsement?
  • No.
  • Yes.

05
Do you possess, or are you able to obtain, an appropriate, valid Special Driver Certificate issued by the California Highway Patrol (CHP) within three (3) months from the time of appointment? The following Special Driver Certificates are accepted: Vehicle for Developmentally Disabled Persons (VDDP), School Pupil Activity Bus (SPAB) Certificate or School Bus Driver Certificate.
  • No.
  • Yes.

06
Do you possess experience transporting the elderly and/or disabled?
  • No.
  • Yes.

07
Are you able to work a flexible schedule which includes day, night, weekends, holidays, and split shifts?
  • No.
  • Yes.

08
Certification: I understand that I cannot update my application once it has been submitted. Therefore, I have fully completed ALL sections, provided full descriptions of my duties and responsibilities for each employer, and have fully answered ALL questions on the Supplemental Questionnaire. Do not refer to a resume or other documentation, as it will not be reviewed in lieu of completing the Supplemental Questionnaire. Note: Employers and/or experience noted on the Supplemental Questionnaire must also be included and fully detailed on the Application.
  • I understand.

Required Question