ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Substitute Bus Driver Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Sourcewell

Substitute Bus Driver

Menahga, MN · On-site

$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 ...

Transportation Department

Substitute Bus Driver

Sullivan, MO · On-site

$15 - $20.50/hr

Substitute Bus Driver The Sullivan School District has an active Substitute Bus Driver List. We appreciate your interest in the Sullivan School District. Applications will be reviewed and interviews ...

New

META Solutions

SUBSTITUTE BUS DRIVER

Columbus, OH · On-site

$19.49/hr

?SUBSTITUTE BUS DRIVER * ?River Valley Local Schools * Substitute Bus Driver * 2025-2026 School Year * On an as needed basis * $19.49 per hour * Class B CDL with school bus & passenger endorsement ...

META Solutions

SUBSTITUTE BUS DRIVER

Columbus, OH · On-site

$19.49/hr

Transportation/Bus Driver Date Posted: 6/4/2025 Location: River Valley Local School District Date Available: 2024-2025 Closing Date: 05/01/2026 District: River Valley Local Schools ?SUBSTITUTE BUS ...

Jewell School District 8

Substitute Bus Driver

Seaside, OR · On-site

$16.50 - $22.50/hr

Bus Driver/Substitute Bus Driver Date Posted: 11/21/2025 Location: Jewell School District 8 Description: Substitute Bus Driver (onsite bus training is available) Qualifications: Bus Driver * Posses ...

JEWELL SCHOOL K-12th

Substitute Bus Driver

Seaside, OR · On-site

$16.50 - $22.50/hr

Bus Driver/Substitute Bus Driver Date Posted: 11/21/2025 Location: Jewell School District 8 Description: Substitute Bus Driver (onsite bus training is available) Qualifications: Bus Driver * Posses ...

New

previous page

Showing results 41-60

All JobsSubstitute Bus Driver Jobs

Substitute Bus Driver information

See salary details

$6

$18

$27

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.

More about Substitute Bus Driver jobs
What cities are hiring for Substitute Bus Driver jobs? Cities with the most Substitute Bus Driver job openings:
Who are the top companies hiring for Substitute Bus Driver jobs? The top employers for Substitute Bus Driver jobs are:
What states have the most Substitute Bus Driver jobs? States with the most job openings for Substitute Bus Driver jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Substitute Bus Driver jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Substitute Bus Driver jobs are:
What are popular job titles related to Substitute Bus Driver jobs? For Substitute Bus Driver jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Substitute Bus Driver jobs near you
Infographic showing various Substitute Bus Driver job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 38% Full Time, and 62% 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

Dayton Area School Consortium

Dayton, OH • On-site

$14.25 - $19.50/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 24 days ago

Job description

Position Type:
Substitute/Substitute Bus Driver
Date Posted:
4/24/2023
Location:
ECS Transportation Department
District:
Eaton Community Schools
Eaton Community Schools is currently accepting applications for Substitute Bus Drivers. Applicants must have or be able to obtain a valid CDL with school bus endorsement and a pre-service certification, pass a criminal background check upon request, and meet other employment requirements.
Interested applicants must apply online and include a resume and three (3) letters of reference.

Apply