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Trainee Bus Driver Jobs in Minnesota (NOW HIRING)

Forest Lake Schools

School Bus Driver

Forest Lake, MN

$20.03 - $22.87/hr

School Bus Driver Trainee LOCATION: The Transportation Center 207 NW 6th Ave Forest Lake, MN 55025 WORK SCHEDULE: TBD STARTING RATE OF PAY/RANGE: $20.03 - 22.87 LINK TO BENEFITS & OTHER COMPENSATION:

Forest Lake Schools

School Bus Driver

Forest Lake, MN · On-site

$20.03 - $22.87/hr

School Bus Driver Trainee LOCATION: The Transportation Center 207 NW 6th Ave Forest Lake, MN 55025 WORK SCHEDULE: TBD STARTING RATE OF PAY/RANGE: $20.03 - 22.87 LINK TO BENEFITS & OTHER COMPENSATION:

Gobeacon

Entry Level School Bus Driver

Richfield, MN · On-site

$28/hr

Join our team as an Entry-Level School Bus Driver Trainee and make a difference in your community-no CDL required to start! Location: Richfield, MN Compensation: * Training Pay: $23.00/hr. + Full ...

Bemidji Area Schools

Bus Drivers

Bemidji, MN · On-site

$27.10/hr

Bus driver trainees will be paid $16.21 per hour for up to 30 hours of driver trainings. After completion of training, applicants are entered into a paid mentoring program. The starting wage for ...

Bemidji Area Schools

Bus Drivers

Bemidji, MN · On-site

$27.10/hr

Bus driver trainees will be paid $16.21 per hour for up to 30 hours of driver trainings. After completion of training, applicants are entered into a paid mentoring program. The starting wage for ...

Bemidji Area Schools

Bus Drivers

Bemidji, MN · On-site

$27.10/hr

Bus driver trainees will be paid $16.21 per hour for up to 30 hours of driver trainings. After completion of training, applicants are entered into a paid mentoring program. The starting wage for ...

Mystic Lake

Clinical Trainee - Healing Center

Shakopee, MN · On-site

$63K - $85K/yr

Valid driver's license and insurability under organizational policy. This position is subject to ... Plus, take advantage of perks like discounts on childcare, fuel, bus passes and fitness membership ...

All JobsBus Driver JobsTrainee Bus Driver JobsTrainee Bus Driver Jobs in Minnesota

Trainee Bus Driver information

See Minnesota salary details

$24.5K

$48.9K

$65.1K

How much do trainee bus driver jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 11, 2026, the average yearly pay for trainee bus driver in Minnesota is $48,925.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $39,200.00 and $56,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

What is a trainee bus driver?

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.
What are the most commonly searched types of Bus Driver jobs in Minnesota? The most popular types of Bus Driver jobs in Minnesota are:
What are popular job titles related to Trainee Bus Driver jobs in Minnesota? For Trainee Bus Driver jobs in Minnesota, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Trainee Bus Driver jobs in Minnesota look for? The top searched job categories for Trainee Bus Driver jobs in Minnesota are:
Trainee Bus Driver jobs near you
Infographic showing various Trainee Bus Driver job openings in Minnesota as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 22% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $48,925 per year, or $23.5 per hour.

School Bus Driver

Forest Lake Independent School District

Forest Lake, MN • On-site

$20.03 - $22.87/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Life

Posted 8 days ago

Job description

School Bus Driver Trainee

Forest Lake Area School District is currently seeking applicants for the position of school bus driver trainee. Located in the scenic northeastern suburbs of the Twin Cities, we are committed to providing an exceptional education that empowers students to learn, grow and chart their own path to a fulfilling future. With a strong focus on academic excellence, innovation, and community engagement, the district provides an exceptional educational experience throughout our schools.

As an employer, Forest Lake Area Schools values passionate, dedicated educators and support staff who are eager to make a positive impact on the lives of students. If you're looking for a rewarding career in a dynamic, collaborative environment, the Forest Lake Area School District offers opportunities for growth, professional development, and a chance to be part of a thriving educational community.

Position: School Bus Driver Trainee

Location: The Transportation Center 207 NW 6th Ave Forest Lake, MN 55025

Work Schedule: TBD

Starting Rate of Pay/Range: $20.03 - 22.87

Job Description: Forest Lake Area Schools is now accepting applications for school bus driver trainees. Full training provided. Classroom, behind-the-wheel and licensing in our easy to drive buses with automatic transmissions.

Qualifications:

  • Applicant must be 21 years of age.
  • Applicant must have a driving record and personal background history free of any disqualifying offenses.
  • Applicant must pass a school bus physical and drug test.
  • Applicant must complete all School District provided CDL required training

The Benefits of Driving a School Bus:

  • Work part-time locally.
  • No nights or weekends
  • Regular bus drivers earn dental, life insurance, paid holidays and are eligible for single coverage medical insurance.
  • Save daycare costs. Children aged 3+ years old can ride with you.
  • Paid training in our easy to drive buses equipped with automatic transmission.

For more information contact the Transportation Department at (651) 982-8190 or the Safety and Training Department at (651) 982-8193.

Apply