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Substitute Bus Driver Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Pulaski County Schools

Substitute Bus Driver

Pulaski, VA · On-site

$14.25 - $19.50/hr

Position Type: Substitute/Substitute Bus Driver Date Posted: 7/7/2026 Location: Bus ShopSubstitute Bus Driver Pulaski County Public Schools Category: Substitute Job Postings Employment Type ...

Pulaski County Schools

Substitute Bus Driver

Pulaski, VA

$14.25 - $19.50/hr

Substitute Bus Driver Pulaski County Public Schools Category: Substitute Job Postings Employment Type: Part Time Building: Bus Shop Location: All Locations, Pulaski, VIRGINIA Summary SUBSTITUTE BUS ...

Bland County School District

Substitute Bus Driver

VA · On-site

$14.50 - $19.75/hr

Substitute Bus Driver Primary Function: To safely transport passengers between assigned stops and schools, according to specified routes and time schedules. Maintains orders between trips and adheres ...

Essex County Schools

Substitute Bus Driver

Tappahannock, VA · On-site

$15 - $20.75/hr

Substitute School Bus Driver Position Purpose Under the general supervision of the Transportation Manager, to ensure the safe transportation of students, staff, and others to and from school ...

Madison County Schools

Substitute Bus Driver

Madison, VA · On-site

$14K - $25K/mo

Transportation/Bus Driver Date Posted: 3/2/2026 Location: Madison County School Board Office POSITION SUMMARY: Madison County Public Schools is seeking Bus Drivers. We have openings for School Bus ...

Madison County Schools

Substitute Bus Driver

Madison, VA

$14K - $25K/mo

Our Bus Drivers are an essential part in our educational system, and we value their contributions. REQUIRED: * High School diploma or GED preferred * CDL Class B with Air Break/Bus Passenger license ...

West Point Public Schools

Substitute Bus Driver

West Point, VA · On-site

$15.75 - $21.50/hr

Open Until Filled Substitute Bus Driver Department: Transportation FLSA Status: Non-Exempt General Definition of Work: Performs semiskilled work transporting students to and from school and events ...

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Substitute Bus Driver information

See Virginia salary details

$6

$18

$27

How much do substitute bus driver jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 18, 2026, the average hourly pay for substitute bus driver in Virginia is $18.59, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.48 and $21.20 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.

What are substitute bus drivers?

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 is the highest paying bus driver job?

The highest paying bus driver jobs are typically with private charter companies, transportation for specialized services such as airport shuttles or tour buses, or in roles requiring additional certifications like commercial driver's licenses with passenger and air brake endorsements. These positions often offer higher wages due to specialized routes, longer hours, or additional responsibilities.

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 bus driver?

To qualify as a substitute bus driver, candidates typically must have a valid commercial driver's license (CDL) with passenger and school bus endorsements, a clean driving record, and pass background checks and drug tests. Disqualifications include a history of serious traffic violations, DUI convictions, certain criminal offenses, or failing to meet health and safety requirements. Additionally, a lack of proper training or certification can prevent eligibility for the role.

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 limited benefits. The job requires early mornings, long hours, and responsibility for student safety, which can lead to burnout and job dissatisfaction.

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 Virginia? For Substitute Bus Driver jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Substitute Bus Driver jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Substitute Bus Driver jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Substitute Bus Driver jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Substitute Bus Driver job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Substitute Bus Driver jobs in VA? For Substitute Bus Driver jobs in VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Substitute Bus Driver jobs near you
Infographic showing various Substitute Bus Driver job openings in Virginia as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 13% Full Time, 84% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $38,675 per year, or $18.6 per hour.
Substitute Bus Driver

Substitute Bus Driver

Mathews County Public Schools

Gloucester, VA • On-site

$54/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 8 days ago

Job description

Position Type:
Substitute/Substitute Bus Driver
Date Posted:
2/1/2022
Location:
Transportation Department
Date Available:
TBD
Closing Date:
Open Until FilledSubsitute Bus Drivers needed. MCPS will train qualified applicants! Pay rate is $27 per run or $54 per day.

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