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Transit Bus Driver Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Marin Airporter

Transit Bus Driver

San Rafael, CA · On-site

$32/hr

We train new drivers who need upgrading to Air Brakes and Verification of Transit Training (VTT ... All bus passengers and drivers are required to wear a mask. Job Types: Full-time, Part-time Pay:

Transdev

Public Transit Bus Driver

Santa Rosa, CA · On-site

$40.50/hr

Bus Driver We are currently on the lookout for an experienced Bus Driver to join our elite team in Santa Rosa, CA . As a key member, you will be entrusted with ensuring safe and comfortable ...

Transdev

Public Transit Bus Driver

Santa Rosa, CA

$40.50/hr

Bus Driver We are currently on the lookout for an experienced Bus Driver to join our elite team in Santa Rosa, CA . As a key member, you will be entrusted with ensuring safe and comfortable ...

WeDriveU

Transit CDL Driver - Part time

Fresno, CA · On-site

$23.02/hr

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

Placer County California

Bus Driver - Senior

Tahoe City, CA · On-site

$30.72 - $38.38/hr

Tahoe Area Regional Transit (TART) is currently accepting applications for a permanent, full-time Senior Bus Driver. This recruitment is for a Senior Bus Driver in Tahoe only. The Senior Bus Driver ...

RATP Dev USA

Bus Driver

Santa Maria, CA · On-site

$17.50 - $23.75/hr

Profile Requirements and Responsibility of the Bus Driver * Acts as front-line point of contact to ... SMRT is in the forefront of modernized transit and Clean Air initiatives by leading the California ...

WeDriveU

Transit CDL Driver - Part time

Fresno, CA

$23.02/hr

Note: All interested applicants for a Transit Driver position begin with us as a Driver Trainee. The best-trained drivers in the business work for us because we devote a significant amount of ...

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All JobsTransit Bus Driver JobsTransit Bus Driver Jobs in California

Transit Bus Driver information

See California salary details

$13

$19

$31

How much do transit bus driver jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for transit bus driver in California is $19.52, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.35 and $20.38 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a transit bus driver?

Transit bus drivers are professional drivers responsible for operating buses that transport passengers along designated routes within cities or metropolitan areas. They ensure the safe and timely transportation of riders, follow schedules, adhere to traffic laws, and provide customer service by assisting passengers with questions or special needs. Transit bus drivers may also collect fares, check passes, and report incidents or mechanical issues. Their role is vital for public transportation systems, helping people commute to work, school, and other destinations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a transit bus driver, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Transit Bus Driver, you need a valid commercial driver's license (CDL), safe driving skills, and knowledge of local traffic regulations. Familiarity with fare collection systems, GPS navigation, and basic vehicle inspection tools is typically required. Outstanding customer service, patience, and stress management help drivers handle diverse passenger needs and unexpected situations. These skills ensure reliable, safe transportation and positive community interactions, which are essential for public transit operations.

What are some common challenges faced by transit bus drivers, and how can they be managed?

Transit bus drivers often encounter challenges such as navigating heavy traffic, maintaining schedules despite delays, and managing interactions with a diverse range of passengers. Handling stressful situations calmly and practicing effective communication are key to overcoming these obstacles. Many transit agencies provide training in conflict resolution and defensive driving, equipping drivers with the skills needed to manage these challenges safely and professionally. Additionally, support from supervisors and collaboration with fellow drivers can help build a positive work environment.

What is the difference between Transit Bus Driver vs School Bus Driver?

AspectTransit Bus DriverSchool Bus Driver
Required CertificationsCommercial Driver's License (CDL) with passenger endorsementCDL with passenger endorsement and school bus certification
Work EnvironmentPublic transit systems, urban and suburban routesSchool campuses, routes during school hours
Employer & IndustryPublic transportation agenciesSchool districts or private schools
Common Search & ComparisonYesNo

Both Transit Bus Drivers and School Bus Drivers require a CDL with passenger endorsement. Transit Bus Drivers typically operate in urban transit systems, while School Bus Drivers focus on transporting students to and from school. The work environments and employer types differ, but the certifications and skills overlap significantly.

How difficult is it to become a transit bus driver?

Becoming a transit bus driver typically requires a valid commercial driver's license (CDL) with passenger endorsement, a clean driving record, and completion of a training program that covers safety procedures and route navigation. The process involves passing written and driving skills tests, and some employers may require background checks and medical exams. Overall, it involves a combination of licensing, training, and experience, but it is a standard career path for those interested in public transportation jobs.

How much does a transit bus driver get paid?

The average salary for a transit bus driver in the United States is around $45,000 to $50,000 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer. Many drivers earn additional benefits such as health insurance and retirement plans, and the job often requires a commercial driver's license (CDL) and adherence to safety regulations.

What disqualifies you from being a transit bus driver?

Transit bus drivers are typically disqualified if they have a poor driving record, including a history of accidents or traffic violations, or if they fail background checks or drug tests. Additionally, they must meet age and physical health requirements, and having a valid commercial driver's license (CDL) with the appropriate endorsements is essential; failure to meet these criteria can disqualify candidates.

What type of transit bus driver makes the most money?

Experienced transit bus drivers with specialized skills, such as those operating articulated buses or driving in high-demand urban routes, tend to earn higher wages. Additionally, drivers with seniority, additional certifications, or working for larger transit agencies often make more money. Factors like overtime, shift differentials, and union agreements can also influence earnings.

What are the most commonly searched types of Transit Bus Driver jobs in California?

The most popular types of Transit Bus Driver jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Transit Bus Driver jobs in California?

For Transit Bus Driver jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Transit Bus Driver jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Transit Bus Driver jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Transit Bus Driver jobs?

Cities in California with the most Transit Bus Driver job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Transit Bus Driver jobs in CA?

For Transit Bus Driver jobs in CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Transit Bus Driver jobs near you
Infographic showing various Transit Bus Driver job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 24% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $40,602 per year, or $19.5 per hour.

Transit Bus Driver

Marin Airporter

San Rafael, CA • On-site

$32/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision

Re-posted 9 days ago

Job description

Job description

Marin Airporter is looking for enthusiastic and dependable people to join our team.

On our transit service, we operate 30 and 40-foot Gilligs hybrid transit buses, as well as 20-seat Ford/Eldorado cutaway buses. We train new drivers who need upgrading to Air Brakes and Verification of Transit Training (VTT), on our equipment and routes.

Our starting rate of $32.00 per hour.

Qualifications for the Job:

Currently, we are looking for people with No (or minimal) moving violations, who have or are willing to obtain all of the following:

  • A Class A or B California commercial license with passenger endorsement and air brakes
  • A valid and current Verification of Transit Training (VTT) certificate

You also need to be able to demonstrate that you share our core values of safety, courtesy, and professionalism. You must have a track record of personal integrity, as well as consistent punctuality and reliability in your work attendance.

A positive attitude and a sense of humor are also pluses!

Pay and Benefits:

We offer a Kaiser health plan, which is free for the employee, as well as a dental plan, vision plan.

In addition, we have an ESOP retirement plan in which employees automatically acquire an ownership interest in the company at no cost to them. When you work here, you're not only an employee, but also, in effect, a part owner of the business.

Other Details:.

Minimum age 21. Pre-employment physical, drug test, and background check required.

We are a friendly, collegial, and professionally-run company with low employee turnover and a growing business. We hire entirely on the basis of individual merit and ability to do the job well, and therefore we have a diverse and inclusive workforce that is welcoming to all.

Job Types: Full-time, Part-time, Paid holidays

Pay: $32.00 per hour

COVID-19 considerations:
All bus passengers and drivers are required to wear a mask.

Job Types: Full-time, Part-time

Pay: From $32.00 per hour

COVID-19 considerations:
To keep our drivers as safe as possible, we are currently providing a variety of PPE items to drivers. Buses are sanitized and cleaned on daily basis. In addition, distancing and passenger capacity limits apply on all buses.