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Trainee Bus Driver Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Bus Attendant

Leesburg, VA

$22.47 - $28.78/hr

Trainee/Part-Time Bus Attendant This position is a Trainee/Part-Time position. After the successful ... Assists the bus driver in completing reports and in maintaining a clean, safe environment inside ...

Must have a CDL (Class A or Class B) with passengerendorsement and air brakes.* Hourly Wage: $23.00 ... Performs HRT pre-trip inspection of transit bus for mechanical problems prior to beginning ...

Must have a CDL (Class A or Class B) with passengerendorsement and air brakes.* Hourly Wage: $23.00 ... Performs HRT pre-trip inspection of transit bus for mechanical problems prior to beginning ...

Bus Training Instructor

Norfolk, VA ยท On-site

$50K - $62K/yr

Conducts DMV CDL Skills Test. * Recommends when and if a trainee should be employed as an operator ... bus, trolley and van operation. Knowledge of fare structures, schedules, routes and transfer ...

Bus Training Instructor

Norfolk, VA ยท On-site

$50K - $62K/yr

Conducts DMV CDL Skills Test. * Recommends when and if a trainee should be employed as an operator ... bus, trolley and van operation. Knowledge of fare structures, schedules, routes and transfer ...

... bus and rail passengers on four continents. Visit wedriveu.com to learn more about our company ... Note: Interested applicants for a Transit Driver position may begin with us as a Driver Trainee.

... bus and rail passengers on four continents. Visit wedriveu.com to learn more about our company ... Note: Interested applicants for a Transit Driver position may begin with us as a Driver Trainee.

... bus and rail passengers on four continents. Visit wedriveu.com to learn more about our company ... Note: Interested applicants for a Transit Driver position may begin with us as a Driver Trainee.

Trainee Bus Driver information

See Virginia salary details

$24.8K

$49.5K

$65.9K

How much do trainee bus driver jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for trainee bus driver in Virginia is $49,525.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $39,700.00 and $57,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 Virginia? The most popular types of Bus Driver jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Trainee Bus Driver jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Trainee Bus Driver job openings:
Infographic showing various Trainee 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 $49,525 per year, or $23.8 per hour.
School Bus Driver (2026-2027 SY - General Pool)

School Bus Driver (2026-2027 SY - General Pool)

Alexandria City Public Schools

Alexandria, VA โ€ข On-site

$24.36 - $29.95/hr

Other

Medical, Retirement

Posted 23 days ago


Job description

Job Description:
The School Bus Driver transports students over scheduled routes and/or to/from special excursions; ensures vehicle is in safe operating condition; and ensures safety of students during transport, loading and unloading from buses. This Support position reports to the Transportation Supervisor.
***Paid training program includes CDL certification. Outstanding benefits program includes health insurance and Virginia Retirement System for full-time employees.

Please note: If you do not currently hold a CDL license and are selected for employment, you will be placed on Step 1, Grade 3 of the Transporation Salary Scale ($24.36/hour) for your duration of training. Upon completion/passing the required CDL certification course, your step placement will be re-evaluated based on your commercial driving experience. If you have no additional commercial driving experience, you will be placed on Step 2, Grade 3 of the Transportation Salary Scale. You will be hired on as a casual bus driver trainee; no benefits will be included throughout the training period.


Qualifications:

  • Education: High School diploma or equivalent preferred, not required.
  • Experience: Job related experience desired. Good work history and driving record required.
  • Certificates and Licenses (can be obtained through ACPS training program):
    • Valid Class "B" Commercial Driver's License with Passenger and School Bus Endorsements
    • CDL 3rd party examiner (DMV)
    • CPR/First Aid Certificate Recommended
    • SET (State Efficient Transport) Certification Behavior Intervention Training

Essential Functions:

  • Transports passengers over scheduled routes to and from school and/or field trips in a safe and timely manner.
  • Monitors students and other passengers during transit to maintain safety and follow district policy.
  • Performs pre-trip and post-trip inspections (e.g. fluid levels, tire pressure, exterior condition, mirrors, etc.) to ensure the safe operating condition of the vehicle and comply with mandated guidelines.
  • Advises students and other passengers of appropriate behavior to reinforce regulations and maintain passenger safety.
  • Assesses incidents, complaints, accidents and/or potential emergency situations (e.g. road hazards, medical emergencies, accidents, etc.) and resolves and/or recommends a resolution to the situation.
  • Assists students and other passengers in safe loading and unloading from buses during both emergency situations and normal transport.
  • Attends meetings, classroom and behind the wheel training, safety meetings, in service, administrative conferences, etc. to maintain skills and meet the certificate requirements of a school bus driver.
  • Conducts emergency evacuation drills to ensure efficiency of procedures and comply with mandated requirements.
  • Prepares documents and reports (e.g. monthly manifest, incident/accident reports, inspections records, passenger misconduct, mileage logs, student counts, route description updates, maintenance orders, logs, etc.).
  • Reports observations and/or incidents (e.g. discipline, inappropriate social behavior, etc.) to appropriate personnel.
  • Responds to inquiries (e.g. students, parents, other school personnel, etc.) to provide information and/or direction.
  • Secures students as assigned (e.g. car seats, wheelchairs, restraints, etc.) to ensure their safety during transport.
  • Assists children with disabilities on and off the bus.
  • Assists with snow removal on/around buses to ensure buses maintain established schedules.
  • Cleans assigned vehicles, both interior and exterior to ensure safety, appearance, and sanitation of vehicle.
  • Lifts student and/or equipment (e.g. wheelchairs, car seats, restraints, seat belts, etc.) to position or reposition students as appropriate.
  • Performs other related duties, as assigned, to ensure the efficient and effective functioning of the work unit.

Compensation:

  • $24.36 to $29.95 an hour, determined by The ACPS Transportation Salary Scale

Clearances:

  • Criminal Justice Fingerprint/Background Clearance.
  • Tuberculosis Skin Test.
  • Public Health Compliance - Must follow safety and health protocols.

WP