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Trainee Bus Driver Jobs in Florida (NOW HIRING)

Pasco County

A CAREER FAIR

New Port Richey, FL · On-site

The following career opportunities are available NOW: 911 Dispatchers Correctional Officer Trainees Engineers Field Inspectors Firefighters & Paramedics GoPasco Bus Drivers Parks, Recreation ...

Pasco County, FL

A Career Fair

New Port Richey, FL · On-site

$21.50 - $27.75/hr

Correctional Officer Trainees * Engineers * Field Inspectors * Firefighters & Paramedics * GoPasco Bus Drivers * Parks, Recreation & Natural Resources * Public Works/Equipment Operators * Utility ...

All JobsBus Driver JobsTrainee Bus Driver JobsTrainee Bus Driver Jobs in Florida

Trainee Bus Driver information

How much do school bus drivers make?

School bus drivers in North Carolina typically earn an average hourly wage of around $14 to $16, which translates to approximately $29,000 to $33,000 annually for full-time drivers. Wages can vary based on experience, certifications, and the school district, and drivers often need a commercial driver's license (CDL) with passenger endorsements.

What is the difference between Trainee Bus Driver vs Bus Driver?

AspectTrainee Bus DriverBus Driver
CertificationsLearner's permit, basic trainingCommercial driver's license (CDL)
Work EnvironmentTraining sites, supervised routesOperating buses on scheduled routes
ExperienceNone or minimalExperienced in passenger transport
Job StatusTraining phaseFull-time professional

The main difference between a Trainee Bus Driver and a Bus Driver is that the trainee is in the learning phase, holding basic permits and undergoing training, while the bus driver is fully qualified, experienced, and operating routes independently. Trainees are gaining the skills needed to become certified bus drivers, whereas bus drivers are responsible for safely transporting passengers on scheduled routes.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Trainee Bus Driver, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Trainee Bus Driver, you need a clean driving record, basic numeracy and literacy skills, and eligibility to obtain a Passenger Carrying Vehicle (PCV) license. Familiarity with ticketing machines, route navigation systems, and completion of Driver Certificate of Professional Competence (CPC) training are typically required. Excellent communication, patience, and customer service skills help you interact effectively with passengers and handle difficult situations. These skills and qualifications ensure safe, reliable service and positive experiences for all passengers on public transport.

What are some common challenges faced by trainee bus drivers during their initial training period?

Trainee bus drivers often find adapting to driving large vehicles in busy urban environments to be one of the biggest challenges. Learning to navigate tight turns, manage blind spots, and safely handle unpredictable traffic can take some time. Another common hurdle is mastering customer service skills, as drivers interact with a diverse range of passengers daily. Balancing attention between the road, schedules, and passenger needs requires focus and practice, but thorough training and support from experienced instructors help trainees build confidence and competence over time.

How difficult is it to become a bus driver?

Becoming a trainee bus driver typically requires a valid driver's license, a clean driving record, and passing a background check. Candidates often need to complete a training program that covers safety procedures, vehicle operation, and customer service, which can take several weeks. The job also requires good communication skills and the ability to handle a schedule and route efficiently.

What disqualifies you from being a bus driver?

To qualify as a trainee bus driver, candidates typically must have a valid driver's license, a clean driving record, and pass background checks and drug tests. Disqualifications include serious traffic violations, criminal convictions, or a history of unsafe driving behaviors. Additionally, good communication skills and the ability to handle a demanding schedule are important for this role.

What are trainee bus drivers?

Trainee bus drivers are individuals who are in the process of learning how to safely and efficiently operate a bus, usually through a structured training program provided by a bus company or public transport authority. During this period, trainees receive instruction on driving techniques, safety procedures, customer service, and route navigation. They typically need to obtain the appropriate commercial driving license and pass both theoretical and practical assessments before becoming fully qualified bus drivers.

How long are you a trainee bus driver?

The duration of the trainee bus driver period typically ranges from a few weeks to several months, depending on the company's training program and the individual's progress. During this time, trainees learn safety protocols, driving skills, and customer service requirements before becoming fully licensed drivers.
What are the most commonly searched types of Bus Driver jobs in Florida? The most popular types of Bus Driver jobs in Florida are:
What are popular job titles related to Trainee Bus Driver jobs in Florida? For Trainee Bus Driver jobs in Florida, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Trainee Bus Driver jobs in Florida look for? The top searched job categories for Trainee Bus Driver jobs in Florida are:
What cities in Florida are hiring for Trainee Bus Driver jobs? Cities in Florida with the most Trainee Bus Driver job openings:
Trainee Bus Driver jobs near you
Infographic showing various Trainee Bus Driver job openings in Florida as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 25% Full Time, 72% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution.

BUS TRAINEE (INTERNAL HIRE/TRANSFER)

Broward County Schools

Oakland Park, FL • On-site

Full-time

Posted 24 days ago

Broward County Public Schools rating

6.7

Company rating: 6.7 out of 10

Based on 62 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

336th of 619 rated elementary and secondary schools

Job description

Job Title: BUS TRAINEE (INTERNAL HIRE/TRANSFER)
Posting Start Date: 7/22/26
Job Description Header:
Requisition ID: 19573
Work Location: PUPIL TRANSPORTATION
City: OAKLAND PARK
Job Description:
POSITION GOAL
To transport students between a designated location and the schools and/or to special destinations safely and promptly. Responsible for daily safety inspection and care of the vehicle operated.
ESSENTIAL PERFORMANCE RESPONSIBILITIES
  • Verify that the bus is in satisfactory condition prior to use by inspecting and activating mechanical and operating parts such as warning lights, turn signals, windshield wipers, gauges, horn, brakes, emergency doors, etc., and by determining that all prescribed safety equipment is in place and legal documents are visible.
  • Adhere to bus schedule precisely to meet students at designated times and locations and to transport them to schools or other approved destinations.
  • Operate bus in a manner to provide prompt and safe transportation. • Operate all safety equipment such as stop arms, warning lights, etc., in a responsible manner.
  • Contact transportation terminal office for instructions when confronted by unusual situations; report accidents and crime observed while operating the bus.
  • Maintain acceptable behavior of student passengers as follows: assign seating arrangements and monitor seating assignments; inform students of behavior and safety rules and enforce rules, as necessary; reprimand unruly students verbally or with written referrals; report unauthorized passengers; discharge students only at authorized locations.
  • Prepare reports and complete forms necessary to fulfill State and District requirements, such as bus schedule work sheets, bus seating charts, pre-trip inspection reports, FTE surveys, injury and incident reports, referrals, student count reports, etc.
  • Cultivate a congenial rapport with parents, students, guardians, school staff members, citizens and all other individuals; use twoway radio in an appropriate and professional manner.
  • Arrange for or perform bus maintenance as follows: position bus at fuel stations for fuel, oil and cleaning; insert fuel card into computer terminal and dial in mileage to record required information; sweep bus floors after use; inspect bus for torn seats, graffiti, vandalism etc.; prepare requests for repairs.
  • Assist bus attendant, as necessary, with the loading, securing and care of handicapped students.
  • Master the principles of first aid and administer as needed.
  • Assume responsibility for operation of lift buses and securing wheelchairs and other Special equipment (mainstream students).
  • Perform and promote all activities in compliance with the equal employment and non-discrimination policies of The School Board of Broward County, Florida.
  • Participate in training programs offered to enhance the individual skills and proficiency related to job responsibilities.
  • Review current developments, literature and technical sources of information related to job responsibilities.
  • Ensure adherence to safety rules and procedures.
  • Follow federal and state, as well as School Board policies.
  • Perform other duties as assigned by the immediate supervisor or designee.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS & EXPERIENCE
  • Must possess basic comprehension and fluency in English.
  • Five (5) years of licensed successful driving experience.
  • Must pass a five (5) year driver's license review determined from a Transcript of Driver Record from the Department of Highway Safety.
  • Prior to transporting students on a school bus and before being issued a valid school bus driver's license, each Bus Operator shall meet the following requirements:
    • Must have a proper Florida Commercial Driver's License (CDL) with endorsements compatible with the assigned duties of The School Board of Broward County, Florida.
    • Successfully complete forty (40) hours of preservice training consisting of at least twenty (20) hours of classroom instruction and at least eight (8) hours of behind-the-wheel training based upon the state of Florida Department of Education Basic School Bus Driver Curriculum.
    • Demonstrate the ability to prepare required written reportss.
    • Be physically capable of operating the vehicle as determined by an annual physical examination, Form ESE 479, prescribed by the Commissioner and given by a physician designated by The School Board of Broward County, Florida and as determined by a reflex test administered by the School District.
    • Demonstrate physical and mental capabilities required to carry out all assigned responsibilities as a school Bus Operator.
  • At the time of reappointment for the next school year, the Bus Operator of a school bus shall meet the following requirements:
  • Meet all requirements stipulated under qualifications for a Bus Operator.
    • Successfully complete a minimum of eight (8) hours of in-service training within the preceding twelve (12) months.
    • Successfully pass a physical examination, given by a physician designated by The School Board of Broward County, Florida, and a reflex test administered by the School District.
  • This position will include pre-employment drug and alcohol testing.
  • Computer skills as required for the position.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS & EXPERIENCE
  • Standard high school diploma or satisfactory completion of an approved General Equivalency Diploma (GED) Testing Program preferred.
  • Bilingual skills preferred.

SIGNIFICANT CONTACTS-frequency, contact, purpose
Frequent contact with students, parents, guardians, school staff members, citizens and all other individuals while providing transportation services in a safe, efficient, cooperative and courteous manner
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS
Medium work: Exerting up to 50 pounds of force occasionally, and/or up to 20 pounds of force frequently and/or up to 10 pounds of force as needed to move objects.
TERMS OF EMPLOYMENT
Salary and benefits shall be paid consistent with the District's approved compensation plan. Length of the work year and hours of employment shall be those established by the School Board and subject to the Collective Bargaining Agreement.
LINK TO JOB DESCRIPTION
To review the complete job description for this position access the following website: https://www.browardschools.com/Page/36072 and search by Job Code. The Job Code for this position is: NN-061
LOCATION PREFERENCES/ADDITIONAL INFOR
Please be advised that this job posting is intended exclusively for current BCPS employees who are NOT presently working within the Transportation Department.
Job Description Footer:
Advertisement Window: 09/22/2025 - Open Until Filled
Work Location: PUPIL TRANSPORTATION
Work Calendar: 192B Day Cal
Pay Grade: BUS OPER
Classification: Nonexempt
Compensation
Hourly Rate - $21.00 - $29.00 per hour
Shift Differential (If applicable) - /
NOTE: New hires will be hired at the minimum of the assigned salary range

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