ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Small Bus Driver Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Best Preschools

Bus Driver

Tampa, FL

$15.50 - $21.25/hr

Drive small 19 passenger bus to and from elementary schools. * Supervise children on the bus. * Maintain accurate records of attendance of bus riders. Requirements * CDL/ passenger endorsement * Must ...

Best Preschools

Bus Driver

Tampa, FL

$16 - $22/hr

Drive small 19 passenger bus to and from elementary schools. * Supervise children on the bus. * Maintain accurate records of attendance of bus riders. Requirements * CDL/ passenger endorsement * Must ...

Best Preschools

Bus Driver

Tampa, FL

$15.25 - $20.75/hr

Drive small 19 passenger bus to and from elementary schools. * Supervise children on the bus. * Maintain accurate records of attendance of bus riders. Requirements * CDL/ passenger endorsement * Must ...

Best Preschools

Bus Driver

Tampa, FL

$16 - $22/hr

Drive small 19 passenger bus to and from elementary schools. * Supervise children on the bus. * Maintain accurate records of attendance of bus riders. Requirements * CDL/ passenger endorsement * Must ...

Best Preschools

Bus Driver

Tampa, FL

$16 - $22/hr

Drive small 19 passenger bus to and from elementary schools. * Supervise children on the bus. * Maintain accurate records of attendance of bus riders. Requirements * CDL/ passenger endorsement * Must ...

Best Preschools

Bus Driver

Tampa, FL

$15.50 - $21/hr

Drive small 19 passenger bus to and from elementary schools. * Supervise children on the bus. * Maintain accurate records of attendance of bus riders. Requirements * CDL/ passenger endorsement * Must ...

First Student

Non-CDL Small School Bus Driver

Dover, NH · On-site

$22.66/hr

Now Hiring Part Time Non-CDL Small Bus Drivers - Rochester, NH As a Part Time Non-CDL Bus Driver, you will play a vital role in your community and the lives of students. You will start students' days ...

First Student

School Bus Driver

Pittsburgh, PA · On-site

$30.02/hr

School Bus Driver benefits: * $30.02/HR - Big Bus * $22.77/HR - Small Bus * $7,500 Sign on Bonus for all Drivers!* * No experience necessary! We train! * Attendance & Safety Bonuses* * Additional ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsTravel JobsDriving JobsShuttle Driver JobsSmall Bus Driver Jobs

Small Bus Driver information

See salary details

$8

$19

$28

How much do small bus driver jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for small bus driver in the United States is $19.81, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.35 and $22.36 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a small bus driver?

Small bus drivers are professional drivers responsible for operating smaller-sized buses, typically used for transporting groups such as school children, senior citizens, or shuttle passengers. Their duties include safely driving predetermined routes, picking up and dropping off passengers at designated stops, and ensuring the comfort and safety of everyone on board. They may also assist passengers with mobility needs, perform routine vehicle inspections, and maintain records of their trips. Excellent driving skills, a clean driving record, and strong customer service abilities are essential for this role.

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

To thrive as a Small Bus Driver, you need a valid commercial driver’s license (CDL) with a passenger endorsement, a clean driving record, and knowledge of traffic laws and safety regulations. Familiarity with GPS navigation systems, vehicle inspection checklists, and basic maintenance tools is typically required. Excellent communication, patience, and customer service skills help drivers interact with passengers and handle stressful situations calmly. These competencies ensure passenger safety, reliable service, and a positive travel experience for all riders.

What are some common challenges faced by small bus drivers and how can they be managed?

Small Bus Drivers often encounter challenges such as managing tight schedules, handling difficult passengers, and navigating through traffic or unfamiliar routes. Effective time management and strong communication skills are essential to keep routes on track and ensure passenger safety. Building a good rapport with passengers and maintaining a calm, professional demeanor can help in diffusing tense situations. Regularly reviewing routes and staying updated on traffic conditions also contributes to smoother operations.

What is the difference between Small Bus Driver vs School Bus Driver?

AspectSmall Bus DriverSchool Bus Driver
Required CertificationsCommercial Driver's License (CDL) with passenger endorsementCDL with passenger endorsement, often specific to school buses
Work EnvironmentTransporting small groups, often for private or corporate clientsTransporting students to and from school, often on fixed routes
Employer & IndustryPrivate companies, shuttle services, small organizationsSchool districts, educational institutions

Small Bus Drivers and School Bus Drivers both require a CDL with passenger endorsement and work in passenger transportation. However, Small Bus Drivers typically serve private clients or organizations, while School Bus Drivers focus on transporting students for schools. The work environments and employers differ, but the certifications and safety standards are similar.

Do small bus drivers get paid for the entire day?

Small bus drivers are typically paid for the hours they work, which may include the entire scheduled shift if they are on duty for the full day. Overtime pay may apply if they work beyond standard hours, depending on employment agreements and local labor laws.

Is it hard to drive a small bus?

Driving a small bus as a bus driver requires good vehicle control, attention to safety, and adherence to traffic laws. It involves managing passenger safety, navigating routes, and often requires a commercial driver's license (CDL) or specific certification. The difficulty depends on the driver's experience and familiarity with the vehicle and routes.

What disqualifies you from being a small bus driver?

Small bus drivers are typically disqualified if they have a valid driver's license without a commercial driver's license (CDL), a history of serious traffic violations or DUI, or a criminal record that includes offenses related to safety or transportation. Additionally, failing a medical exam or drug test can disqualify candidates, and they must meet age and physical fitness requirements set by licensing authorities.

What type of small bus driver makes the most money?

Experienced small bus drivers who operate specialized vehicles such as school buses, charter buses, or luxury shuttles tend to earn higher wages. Drivers with commercial driver’s licenses (CDL) and additional certifications, such as passenger or hazardous materials endorsements, can also increase earning potential. Salary varies based on employer, location, and experience, but specialization and advanced licensing generally lead to higher pay.
More about Small Bus Driver jobs

What cities are hiring for Small Bus Driver jobs?

Cities with the most Small Bus Driver job openings:

What states have the most Small Bus Driver jobs?

States with the most job openings for Small Bus Driver jobs include:

What job categories do people searching Small Bus Driver jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Small Bus Driver jobs are:

Small Bus Driver jobs near you
Infographic showing various Small Bus Driver job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 66% Full Time, 31% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,198 per year, or $19.8 per hour.

School Bus Driver - Small Bus

New Windsor, NY

STA of New York, Inc
See more jobs at STA of New York, Incexternal

$22.75/hr

Full-time

PTO

Re-posted 16 days ago

Job description

Come join our team! As a school bus driver, you will have the support of a dedicated, local management team and the training needed to perform your job safely, and with care. Bus drivers are responsible for the safe delivery of students to and from school along set routes, adherence to school bus safety and bus stop safety standards, and daily vehicle inspections, among other duties.

What We Offer:

  • Pay Rate Caravan: $22.75
  • Pay Rate School Bus Small Bus: $27.25 - $32.00
  • Paid School Bus Training Program
  • PTO & NYS Paid Sick Leave

Location: 117 Z St Building 804, New Windsor, NY 12553

Contact Us: 845-562-8100

Responsibilities:

  • Drive a school bus route - picking up and dropping off student passengers at established stops on the route.
  • Conduct pre-trip vehicle inspections to ensure safe operation.
  • Conduct post-trip vehicle inspections.
  • Attend and participate in monthly safety meetings.
  • Clean bus as necessary to maintain a professional appearance and positive company image.
  • As requested or desired to take field trips, activity trips and charter runs to transport students and other passengers to and from their destinations.

Qualifications:

  • Must be 21 years or older
  • Must have a minimum of 5 years verifiable driving history
  • Clean driving record within the last 24-36 months
  • Ability and willingness to obtain a CDL
  • Complete comprehensive training program
  • Pre-employment background checks, physical, and drug screening

The statements above are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this classification. They are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required of personnel so classified.

STA is an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) employer and welcomes all qualified applicants; returning military are strongly encouraged to apply. Applicants will receive fair and impartial consideration without regard to race, sex, color, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, genetic data, gender identity, sexual orientation, religion or other legally protected status, or any other classification protected by federal, state, or local law.