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How much do special education bus driver jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for special education bus driver in the United States is $20.15, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.07 and $24.04 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Special Education Bus Driver, you need a valid commercial driver’s license (CDL) with passenger and school bus endorsements, safe driving skills, and basic knowledge of student care and first aid. Familiarity with specialized wheelchair lifts, securement systems, and electronic routing or communication devices is typically required. Patience, strong communication, and an understanding, compassionate attitude are essential soft skills for building trust and ensuring the well-being of students with disabilities. These skills and qualities are crucial for safely transporting vulnerable students, responding appropriately to their specific needs, and maintaining a secure, supportive environment.

What is a special education bus driver?

Special Education Bus Drivers are professionals responsible for safely transporting students with special needs to and from school, as well as to other educational activities. They are trained to work with children who may require additional support due to physical, emotional, or developmental challenges. Their duties often include assisting students getting on and off the bus, securing wheelchairs or other mobility equipment, and maintaining a safe and supportive environment during the ride. Special Education Bus Drivers also collaborate closely with teachers, aides, and parents to address each student's unique needs.

What is the difference between Special Education Bus Driver vs School Bus Driver?

AspectSpecial Education Bus DriverSchool Bus Driver
Required CertificationsCommercial Driver's License (CDL), Special Education trainingCDL, general passenger endorsement
Work EnvironmentTransporting students with special needs, often with additional safety protocolsTransporting general student population
Employer & Industry UsageSchool districts, special education programsSchool districts, public and private schools

Special Education Bus Drivers and School Bus Drivers both require a CDL, but Special Education Bus Drivers need additional training to handle students with special needs. They often work in specialized environments, ensuring safety and support for students with disabilities. While their roles overlap, Special Education Bus Drivers focus on transporting students with unique requirements, whereas School Bus Drivers serve the general student population.

What challenges do special education bus drivers face, and how are they supported?

Special Education Bus Drivers often encounter challenges such as managing diverse student needs, addressing behavioral issues, and ensuring the safe transportation of students with mobility devices or medical needs. To support them, schools typically provide specialized training in student management, disability awareness, and first aid. Drivers also work closely with bus aides, teachers, and parents to develop consistent routines and communication strategies, ensuring every student’s safety and comfort during transit.
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Special Education Bus Driver jobs near you
Infographic showing various Special Education Bus Driver job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 80% Full Time, and 20% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $41,912 per year, or $20.1 per hour.

Special Education Bus Driver

Oakland Schools

Auburn Hills, MI • On-site

$21.12/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 11 days ago

Job description

Position Type:
Transportation/Bus Driver
Date Posted:
9/5/2025
Location:
Avondale Schools Administrative Offices
District:
Avondale School District
Title: Special Education Bus Driver
Job Type: 25 hours/week
Pay Rate: $21.12/ hour commensurate with experience
Reports to: Transportation Supervisor
Job Goal: Provide safe and reliable transportation
Immediate Openings
Qualifications:
  • Meet Michigan school bus driver certification requirement
  • Meet state requirements for licensing
  • CDL license Type CB with PS and Air Brake endorsement
  • Meet state physical examination requirements
  • High School Diploma
  • Ability to speak clearly and concisely both in oral and written communication
  • Strong interpersonal and public relations skills

Duties and Responsibilities:
  • Drive a school bus in a safe manner
  • Obey all traffic laws and ordinances
  • Maintain order when students are on bus
  • Participate in required training
  • Adhere to district policies and procedures
  • Perform complete daily pre-trip inspections
  • Perform all other duties as requested
  • Additional duties as assigned by supervisor
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About Oakland Schools

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Oakland Schools is a regional service agency that offers support services to school personnel that are best delivered regionally and provide cost, size and quality advantages to those we serve. Oakland Schools is an autonomous, tax-supported public school district governed by Michigan General School Laws and is one of 56 intermediate school districts (ISDs) established in Michigan in 1962.

Industry

Elementary and secondary schools

Company size

501 - 1,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Waterford, MI, US

Year founded

1962

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