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School Bus Driver Training Jobs in Riverside, CA

First Student, Inc.

School Bus Driver

Mission Viejo, CA · On-site

$29.74 - $36.61/hr

Training Hourly Rate: $16.90 per hour * Commercial Learner's Permit (CLP) and Commercial Driver ... Your day as a School Bus Driver will include: * Safely transport students to and from school and ...

First Student, Inc.

School Bus Driver

Riverside, CA · On-site

$30 - $36.50/hr

Training Hourly Rate: $16.90 per hour. * Commercial Learner's Permit (CLP) and Commercial Driver ... Your day as a School Bus Driver will include: * Safely transport students to and from school and ...

First Student

School Bus Driver

Mission Viejo, CA

$29.74 - $36.61/hr

Training Hourly Rate: $16.90 per hour * Commercial Learner's Permit (CLP) and Commercial Driver ... Your day as a School Bus Driver will include: * Safely transport students to and from school and ...

First Student

School Bus Driver

Mission Viejo, CA · On-site

$29.74 - $36.61/hr

Training Hourly Rate: $16.90 per hour * Commercial Learner's Permit (CLP) and Commercial Driver ... Your day as a School Bus Driver will include: * Safely transport students to and from school and ...

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All JobsSchool Bus Driver Training JobsSchool Bus Driver Training Jobs in Riverside, CA

School Bus Driver Training information

See Riverside, CA salary details

$9

$21

$31

How much do school bus driver training jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for school bus driver training in Riverside, CA is $21.97, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.55 and $25.34 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between School Bus Driver Training vs School Bus Driver Certification?

AspectSchool Bus Driver TrainingSchool Bus Driver Certification
PurposePrepares individuals with the skills and knowledge needed to safely operate school busesOfficial recognition that a driver has met state or industry standards to operate a school bus
RequirementsCompletion of training courses, behind-the-wheel practice, safety instructionPassing written and practical exams, obtaining necessary licenses or endorsements
Work EnvironmentTraining sessions, classroom, and on-road practiceLicensed school bus driver working in schools or transportation companies

In summary, School Bus Driver Training provides the education and practice needed to qualify for certification, which is the official credential allowing individuals to operate school buses professionally.

How long does it take to learn to be a bus driver?

Becoming a school bus driver typically requires completing a training program that lasts from a few days to several weeks, depending on state requirements. The process includes classroom instruction on safety and regulations, as well as behind-the-wheel training and passing a skills test. Certification and a valid commercial driver's license with passenger endorsement are also necessary before starting work.

What should I expect during the school bus driver training process, and how long does it typically take?

School bus driver training programs generally combine classroom instruction with behind-the-wheel practice. You'll learn about safety regulations, emergency procedures, student management, and defensive driving techniques. The training typically lasts from two to six weeks, depending on your location and the school's requirements. Expect to complete a written exam, a driving test, and obtain a commercial driver's license (CDL) with a school bus (S) endorsement before starting work. Training is usually provided by the school district or a contracted transportation company, and you'll often work closely with experienced instructors throughout the process.

How long is CDL school bus training?

School bus driver training typically lasts between 20 to 40 hours and includes classroom instruction on safety, laws, and driving techniques, as well as behind-the-wheel practice. The duration can vary depending on state requirements and the training program, and candidates must pass both written and driving exams to obtain their CDL with a school bus endorsement.

How much do school bus drivers make?

School bus drivers in Tennessee typically earn an average hourly wage of around $14 to $17, with annual salaries ranging from approximately $25,000 to $35,000. Earnings can vary based on experience, certifications, and the school district, and drivers often need a commercial driver's license (CDL) with passenger and school bus endorsements.

Do school bus drivers get paid for the entire day?

School bus drivers are typically paid for the hours they are actively working, such as driving routes, and not for the entire day if they are on standby or waiting. Pay structures can vary by school district or employer, and some drivers may receive additional compensation for training or other duties. It is important to review specific employment agreements for detailed pay policies.

What is school bus driver training?

School bus driver training is a specialized program designed to prepare individuals to safely operate a school bus and transport students. The training typically covers vehicle operation, traffic laws, student management, emergency procedures, and safe driving practices. Completing this training is required to obtain a commercial driver's license (CDL) with a school bus endorsement. The program often includes both classroom instruction and behind-the-wheel experience to ensure drivers are ready for real-world situations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in School Bus Driver Training, and why are they important?

To thrive in School Bus Driver Training, candidates need a valid commercial driver’s license (CDL) with passenger (P) and school bus (S) endorsements, a clean driving record, and knowledge of traffic safety regulations. Familiarity with standard vehicle inspection procedures, GPS navigation systems, and state-mandated safety protocols is typically required. Strong communication, patience, and situational awareness help drivers interact effectively with students and respond calmly to unexpected situations. These skills ensure student safety, reliable transportation, and compliance with legal and school district requirements.
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School Bus Driver Training jobs near you
School Bus Driver

School Bus Driver

First Student, Inc.

Mission Viejo, CA • On-site

$29.74 - $36.61/hr

Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 18 days ago

First Student rating

6.4

Company rating: 6.4 out of 10

Based on 306 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

37th of 72 rated education support services

Job description

Now Hiring Part Time School Bus Drivers - Mission Viejo, CA:
As a Part Time School Bus Driver, you will play a vital role in your community and the lives of students. You will start students' days with morning pickup before school and transport them safely back home in the afternoon. Additional hours for field trips and special event transportation may be available.
No experience is necessary to become a school bus driver! We are here to help you succeed with expert training and guidance to help you become a safe and professional First Student school bus driver.
School Bus Driver benefits:
  • Pay Details: Dependent on experience and qualifications
  • Hourly Rate: $29.74 - $36.61 per hour
  • Training Hourly Rate: $16.90 per hour
  • Commercial Learner's Permit (CLP) and Commercial Driver's License (CDL) training provided!
  • Medical, Dental, Vision, & Life insurance or coverage options
  • 401(k) Retirement Plan with company match.
  • Part-time, flexible schedule: Split shifts (AM/PM routes), weekdays only; No nights, weekends, holidays, or summers required.
  • Guaranteed Minimum Hours: Get paid for 5 hours per day at minimum; additional hours may be available through charters.
  • Career Advancement Opportunities: Advance into operational, maintenance, management, and leadership roles in over 540 locations across the U.S. & Canada!
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP): Counseling and support services for personal and work-related issues.
  • Community Impact: Be a trusted figure for students and families.
  • Employee Discount Program: Discounts on various products and services.
  • Ask about our hire-on incentive program for State delegated or State Certified Trainer.
  • This position is only available for Mission Viejo, CA; not for any other Orange County locations.

Your day as a School Bus Driver will include:
  • Safely transport students to and from school and activities.
  • Supervise boarding and unloading at stops; assist students with seatbelts and mobility aids.
  • Maintain order on the bus to prevent distractions.
  • Conduct pre-trip and post-trip inspections (brakes, lights, tires, emergency exits).
  • Report mechanical issues promptly and keep the bus clean and sanitary.
  • Obey all traffic laws and company safety standards.
  • Communicate with parents, school staff, and dispatch about student behavior or delays.
  • Demonstrate leadership and customer service skills.

School Bus Driver Jobs are Perfect For:
  • Retirees looking for supplemental income
  • Stay-at-home parents seeking daytime work
  • Veterans transitioning into civilian roles
  • Anyone seeking a second career or flexible job
  • People who enjoy working with children

You might be a good fit as a School Bus Driver if you:
  • Are at least 21 years old
  • Have a valid driver's license for at least 3 years
  • Are looking for a part-time schedule and summers off
  • Enjoy working with students

Note: This position is subject to DOT drug testing as a safety-sensitive employee. DOT Regulation 49 CFR Part 40 does not authorize the use of Schedule I drugs, including marijuana, for any reason.
Great School Bus Drivers often bring skills such as:
  • Valid Class B License
  • History driving with ride share companies or taxi services
  • Previous experience as a teacher, CDL driver, social worker, classroom assistant, hospitality worker, or customer service or retail associate.

Take the wheel and drive your career forward with First Student! Make an impact in your community while enjoying flexible schedules, great pay, and unmatched support.
First for a reason:
At First Student, we are a family of 60,000+ employees who take pride in safely transporting more than 5 million students and passengers to and from their destinations each day! Our family of brands include Transco, Total Transportation, Maggies Paratransit, and GVC II. Our employees are at the forefront of safety and innovation; they create and implement the most advanced training and technology the transportation industry has to offer.
In the state of Washington, all technician and driving positions, including but not limited to van drivers and any other position requiring employees to drive a company-owned vehicle, are considered safety-sensitive and are therefore subject to drug and alcohol testing, including cannabis.
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or veteran status. First is also committed to providing a drug-free workplace. First will consider for employment qualified applicants with criminal histories consistent with the requirements of the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, Los Angeles Fair Chance Ordinance, and any other fair chance law. Philadelphia's Fair Criminal Record Screening Standards Ordinance Poster is at this link or upon request https://www.phila.gov/media/20210423160847/Fair-Chance-Hiring-law-poster.pdf.

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