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Substitute Bus Driver Jobs in Georgia (NOW HIRING)

Bus Driver Substitute Department: Education and Youth Schedule: Monday-Friday, 4:30 PM - 7:00 PM, with additional flexible work hours Summer Hours: 7:30 AM - 1:30 PM (Monday-Thursday); hours offered ...

School Bus Driver (Substitute)

Kennesaw, GA · On-site

$15 - $20.50/hr

Gateway to Success Academy Date Available: 08/17/2026 Gateway to Success Academy is seeking a dependable, safety-conscious Substitute School Bus Driver to assist with a limited weekly transportation ...

Showing results 21-40

Substitute Bus Driver information

See Georgia salary details

$5

$15

$23

How much do substitute bus driver jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for substitute bus driver in Georgia is $15.84, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.17 and $18.08 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How much does a substitute bus driver make?

A substitute bus driver typically earns between $15 and $25 per hour, depending on the location, experience, and school district policies. They often work on an as-needed basis and may require a commercial driver's license (CDL) with passenger endorsements.

Do school bus drivers get paid for the entire day?

School bus drivers, including substitute bus drivers, are typically paid for the hours they work, which may include driving routes, pre- and post-trip inspections, and related duties. If they are scheduled for a full day or multiple routes, they generally receive pay for the entire scheduled period, even if some time is spent waiting or performing non-driving tasks. Payment policies can vary by school district or employer, so it's important to review specific employment agreements or contracts.

What is a substitute bus driver?

Substitute bus drivers are trained professionals who temporarily fill in for regular school bus drivers when they are unavailable due to illness, vacation, or other reasons. They are responsible for safely transporting students to and from school, following established routes and schedules. Substitute bus drivers must meet the same licensing and safety requirements as regular drivers, including passing background checks and holding a valid commercial driver's license with appropriate endorsements. They play a crucial role in maintaining consistent transportation services for schools.

What are some common challenges substitute bus drivers face when adapting to new routes or student groups?

Substitute Bus Drivers often encounter the challenge of quickly familiarizing themselves with unfamiliar routes and schedules, which requires strong attention to detail and adaptability. They may also need to manage varying student behaviors, as each group has its own dynamics and routines. Building rapport with students and coordinating with school staff and regular drivers are crucial for ensuring safety and maintaining a smooth ride. Flexibility and effective communication help substitute drivers successfully navigate these challenges and provide reliable transportation.

What disqualifies you from being a substitute bus driver?

Substitute bus drivers are typically disqualified if they have a criminal record, especially involving offenses related to safety or transportation, or if they do not possess a valid commercial driver's license (CDL) with the appropriate endorsements. Additionally, failing a background check, drug test, or medical examination can disqualify candidates, as well as a history of unsafe driving or violations of traffic laws.

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

To thrive as a Substitute Bus Driver, you need a valid commercial driver’s license (CDL) with appropriate endorsements, safe driving skills, and a good driving record. Familiarity with school bus operation, basic vehicle maintenance, and adherence to transportation safety protocols are essential, with some school districts requiring additional training or certifications. Reliability, patience, clear communication, and the ability to manage student behavior are standout soft skills in this role. These skills ensure the safe and timely transport of students while maintaining order and fostering a positive environment on the bus.

Why are school bus drivers quitting?

School bus drivers often quit due to low pay, challenging working conditions, and irregular hours that can impact work-life balance. Additionally, the job requires a commercial driver’s license and safety training, and some drivers leave for better opportunities or due to burnout from long or early morning shifts.

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

AspectSubstitute Bus DriverSchool Bus Driver
Required CertificationsCommercial Driver's License (CDL) with passenger endorsementCommercial Driver's License (CDL) with passenger endorsement
Work EnvironmentOn-call, as-needed basis, covering absencesFull-time or part-time, regular routes and schedules
Employer & IndustrySchool districts, transportation companiesSchool districts, private schools

Substitute Bus Drivers fill in for regular drivers on an as-needed basis, often working irregular hours. School Bus Drivers typically have scheduled routes and consistent hours. Both roles require similar certifications and work within the school transportation industry, but their employment patterns differ.

What are popular job titles related to Substitute Bus Driver jobs in Georgia? For Substitute Bus Driver jobs in Georgia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What are popular job titles related to Substitute Bus Driver jobs in GA? For Substitute Bus Driver jobs in GA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Substitute Bus Driver job openings in Georgia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $32,939 per year, or $15.8 per hour.

$14 - $19/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 7 days ago


Job description


Title:   School Bus Driver
 
Position Purpose
Under the general supervision of the Director of Transportation, to ensure the safe transportation of students, staff, and others to and from school, residential neighborhoods, and field trips.
Essential Functions:
  • Safely drives a school bus on days when school is in session over designated routes in accordance with time schedules, loading and unloading students at designated locations.
  • Transports students, teachers and others on school field or activity trips.
  • Inspects assigned bus on a daily basis prior to transporting of passengers to ensure that bus is in good, clean and safe working order.
  • Cleans and refuels bus as needed.
  • Ensures that a communication device is in proper working order before each trip.
  • Reports all mechanical deficiencies, traffic violations, or accidents, promptly.
  • Arranges for and ensures completion of routine maintenance of bus (e.g., oil change); transporting the bus to and from maintenance and/or repair facilities.
  • Maintains order and discipline in an effective and courteous manner among students being transported in accordance with district policies and procedures; reports any incidents involving student discipline.
  • Observes and tracks route timing, such as total time en-route, time between stops, loading and unloading times or any other requested information for the purpose of establishing route efficiency, as requested.
  • Maintains and submits records and reports as required.
  • Follows procedures to ensure that no child is left alone on bus without adult supervision at any time, and that all children have departed bus at the end of all bus routes (morning, evening and during field trips or other special trips).
  • Inventories bus emergency and first aid supplies and equipment; reports needs to the Director.
  • Prepares aides and children for bus drills and ensures bus evacuation drills are held as required.
  • In case of accidents/emergencies, evacuates children according to written and practiced procedures, ensures that medical emergency procedures are followed; completes a written report as required.
  • Attends and participates in trainings, and other continuing education, career and professional development opportunities.
 
Additional Duties
  • Performs other related tasks as assigned.
  Note:         The above description is illustrative of tasks and responsibilities.  It is not meant to be all inclusive of every task or responsibility.
 
Equipment
  • Uses standard automotive and bus equipment, and telephone.
 
Travel Requirements
  • Travels to and from school district buildings, to vehicle service stations, field trip locations and other destinations are required.
 
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities
  • Knowledge of all traffic laws, regulations, road signs and related information.
  • Manual dexterity sufficient to operate the bus, conduct pre-trip inspections, and clean the bus.
  • Visual and auditory acuity within professionally determined normal ranges, with correction if needed.
  •  Effective verbal and written communication skills.
  • Effective organizational, problem solving, and time management skills.
  • Ability to learn and comprehend information from procedures manuals and other materials. Ability to comprehend and follow traffic signs required.
  • Ability to physically move through the bus, center and classrooms.
  • Ability to maintain composure and perform responsibilities under pressure and in cases of accidents or other emergencies.
  • Ability to establish and maintain cooperative working relationships with others contacted in the course of work.
 
Physical and Mental Demands, Work Hazards
  • Works in standard school bus environment.
 
Note:   Also see the Summary of Physical, Sensory and Environmental Requirements Needed to Perform Essential Functions for this position.
 
Qualifications Profile
Any combination of education and experience providing the required skill and knowledge for successful performance would be qualifying.  Typical qualifications would be equivalent to:
Certification/License:
  • Motor Vehicle Operator's (DMV) License.
  • Current Commercial Driver's License (CDL), class B with Passenger and School Bus endorsement.
 
Education:
  • High School Diploma or GED.
  • Bilingual, both oral and written, ability (English/Spanish) is preferred.
 
Experience:
  • Successful prior experience working as a bus driver, preferably in a school district or transporting children. 
 
FLSA Status:             Nonexempt