ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

School Driver Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Saint Andrew's Episcopal School

Extended Day

Saratoga, CA · On-site

$22 - $28/hr

Kaiser, UHC Health plans with school contribution up to 90%, dependent coverage up to 25% * Guardian Dental, Vision, Life, Accident, Short/Long Term Disability, covered by school * Retirement 401K ...

previous pagenext page

Showing results 21-40

All JobsSchool Driver JobsSchool Driver Jobs in California

School Driver information

See California salary details

$9

$20

$29

How much do school driver jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for school driver in California is $20.79, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.59 and $23.94 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a school driver?

School drivers are professionals responsible for safely transporting students to and from school and related activities using school buses or other authorized vehicles. They ensure that students follow safety protocols, maintain timely schedules, and perform regular vehicle safety checks. School drivers must hold a valid commercial driver’s license (CDL) with appropriate endorsements, and they often undergo background checks and specialized training to handle emergencies and manage student behavior during transit.

What are some common challenges school drivers face during their daily routes?

School Drivers often encounter challenges such as managing tight schedules while ensuring student safety, dealing with unpredictable traffic conditions, and maintaining discipline among students on the bus. They must also remain vigilant about weather-related hazards and follow strict protocols for pick-up and drop-off procedures. Building positive relationships with students and school staff helps address these challenges while fostering a safe and respectful environment.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a school driver, and why are they important?

To thrive as a School Driver, you need a valid commercial driver’s license (CDL), a clean driving record, and knowledge of local traffic laws and safety regulations. Familiarity with school bus operating systems, routine vehicle inspections, and sometimes first aid certification are typically required. Strong communication, patience, and reliability are important soft skills for safely interacting with students and maintaining schedules. These skills and qualifications are crucial to ensure the safe, punctual, and responsible transportation of students every day.

What is the difference between School Driver vs Bus Driver?

AspectSchool DriverBus Driver
CredentialsCommercial Driver's License (CDL), school bus endorsementCommercial Driver's License (CDL), passenger endorsement
Work EnvironmentSchool campuses, designated routes for studentsPublic or private bus routes, various locations
Employer & IndustrySchool districts, educational institutionsTransportation companies, school districts, transit agencies
Common Search & ComparisonOften compared for school transportation rolesBroader passenger transport jobs

School Drivers and Bus Drivers both operate passenger vehicles requiring similar licenses and work in transportation settings. However, School Drivers specifically focus on transporting students within school districts, often following designated routes and schedules. Bus Drivers may serve a wider range of passenger transport roles, including public transit or charter services. Understanding these differences helps job seekers find the right role in the transportation industry.

How much are school drivers paid?

School drivers in Florida typically earn between $12 and $20 per hour, depending on experience, certifications, and the school district. Pay rates may also vary based on full-time or part-time status and additional responsibilities such as bus maintenance or special needs transportation.

Is it worth it to become a school driver?

School drivers transport students safely to and from school, often working part-time with flexible hours. The job typically requires a valid driver's license, a clean driving record, and sometimes a background check or special certifications. It can be a stable job with benefits depending on the employer and location, but wages are generally modest compared to other driving roles.

What is the most a school driver can make?

School drivers' salaries vary by location and experience, but they typically earn between $20,000 and $40,000 annually. Experienced drivers with additional certifications or routes may earn higher wages, especially with overtime or special assignments.

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

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

What job categories do people searching School Driver jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for School Driver jobs in California are:

School Driver jobs near you
Infographic showing various School Driver job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 21% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,238 per year, or $20.8 per hour.

School Bus Driver

Torrance Unified School District

Torrance, CA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 15 days ago

Torrance Unified School District rating

4.8

Company rating: 4.8 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

589th of 641 rated elementary and secondary schools

Job description

Selection Procedure FILING DEADLINE: OPEN UNTIL FILLED District Classified application, Class A or B California Driver's License, School Bus Driver's Certificate and a current H6 (K4 - DMV Information Report) Printout must be submitted to the Personnel Commission Office. SELECTION PROCEDURE: This is an OPEN recruitment to establish an eligibility list, fill vacancies and hire substitutes. Substitutes work on an as-needed basis to fill in for absent employees.

The eligibility list will be used to fill permanent vacancies which may occur during the life of the eligibility list. Positions in this classification are part-time (25 hours/week, split shift) and full-time (40 hours/week, split shift), 10 months per year. The recruitment process will consist of a written examination or performance examination and oral technical interview.

Testing may occur on a weekly basis. Qualified applicants will be notified by US mail or email. (Click here for more information on the recruitment process)(Download PDF reader) Basic Function Under the direction of an assigned supervisor, operate a school bus to transport students safely and efficiently to assigned locations over designated routes.

Performs related duties as required or assigned. (Click here for a complete job description.) Education & Experience Any combination equivalent to: six months experience as a school bus driver. Licenses and Other Requirements Possession of: Valid Class A or B California Driver's License with "S" endorsement; Valid School Bus Driver's Certificate issued by the California Highway Patrol; Current H6 (K4 - DMV Information Report) Printout

Employees must upgrade to a Type One Vehicle with Air Brakes within the first year of employment. Employees in this classification must maintain insurability at the District's standard rate during the term of employment. EQUAL OPPORTUNITY, TITLE IX, AFFIRMATIVE ACTION EMPLOYER The Torrance Unified School District does not engage in any employment practice that discriminates against an employee or applicant for employment on the basis of actual or perceived race, color, ancestry, national origin, religion, creed, age, disability (mental or physical), sex, gender (including pregnancy and childbirth), sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, medical condition, genetic information (including family and medical history), marital status, political affiliation, military and veteran status, or retaliation; or on any other basis as protected by state, federal or local law, ordinance or regulation, in its educational program(s) or employment.

No person shall be denied employment solely because of any impairment which is unrelated to the ability to engage in activities involved in the position(s) or program for which application has been made. If you need a reasonable accommodation to participate in the hiring process, Torrance Unified will provide you with one upon notice.

What Torrance Unified School District employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Apply