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Substitute Bus Driver Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Transportation Department

Substitute Bus Driver

Asheboro, NC · On-site

$14.75 - $20.25/hr

Prospective Substitute Bus Driver Prospective substitute bus driver must: * be at least 18 years of age; * possess at least a high school diploma * be eligible to obtain a bus drivers license To be ...

New

Maxwell Unified

Substitute Bus Driver

Maxwell, CA

$16.75 - $23/hr

On-Call Substitute Bus Driver On-call substitute bus driver. Must have possession of an appropriate California operator's license issued by the State Department of Motor Vehicles. Possession of a ...

Lynden Christian School

Substitute Bus Driver

Lynden, WA · On-site

$16.75 - $23/hr

Substitute Bus Driver Lynden Christian School is accepting applications for substitute bus drivers, with a possibility of moving to a full-time bus driver. Must be available for daily bus routes.

Spencerport Schools

Substitute Bus Driver

Spencerport, NY · On-site

$25/hr

Substitute Bus Driver 2026-27 JobID: 2048 * Position Type: Transportation/ Substitute Bus Driver * Date Posted: 6/17/2026 * Location: Transportation Building * Date Available: 2026-27 School Year The ...

New

Sourcewell

Substitute Bus Driver

Menahga, MN

$15.75 - $21.50/hr

Substitutes/Substitute Bus Driver Date Posted: 7/14/2026 Location: Menahga Public School Dist 821 District: Menahga ISD 821 Substitute Bus Driver For questions about job duties and requirements ...

Triton School

Substitute Bus Driver

Plymouth, MA · On-site

$17.75 - $24.25/hr

Substitute Bus Driver Substitute bus driver for regular routes and/or extracurricular activities. Must have or be able to obtain license to drive bus. Must be dependable. Must have clean driving ...

New

EHOVE Career Center

Substitute Bus Driver

Milan, OH · On-site

$15.50 - $21/hr

Substitute/Substitute Bus/Van Driver Date Posted: 7/1/2026 Location: EHOVE Career Center Closing Date: Until Filled Attachment(s): * Substitute Bus Driver - 2026-2027.pdf

Eaton School District RE-2

Substitute Bus Driver

Eaton, CO · On-site

$18.37 - $21.21/hr

ASAP Closing Date: 02/23/2026 Substitute Bus Driver TRAINING AVAILABLE Start Date: ASAP Application Deadline: Open until filled Starting salary range*: $18.37 - $21.21 per hour based on education and ...

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How much do substitute bus driver jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for substitute bus driver in the United States is $18.75, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.62 and $21.39 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.

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Substitute Bus Driver jobs near you
Infographic showing various Substitute Bus Driver job openings in the United States 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 $39,009 per year, or $18.8 per hour.

Substitute Bus Driver

Ottawa Hills Local Schools

Toledo, OH • On-site

$25/hr

Other

Re-posted 21 days ago

Job description

Substitute Bus Driver

Ottawa Hills is looking to hire a substitute bus driver. This is a great job for individuals who want part-time work at full-time wages. We need a driver to make trips using our 9 passenger van or our school bus. Starting hourly rate is $25.00, and applicants must have a valid driver's license with CDL endorsement; bus drivers' certificate.

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