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Transit Bus Driver Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

Ventura Unified School District

Bus Driver

Ventura, CA · On-site

$27.65 - $33.49/hr

... bus endorsements; and > A valid California Special Driver Certificate without the following ... Note: the air brake/transit requirement may be waived for entry into the classification. Employees ...

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 ...

Placer County California

Bus Driver - II

Tahoe City, CA · On-site

$27.12 - $33.87/hr

Tahoe Truckee Area Regional Transit (TART) provides safe and direct means of transportation service ... Bus Driver - I (Auburn/South Placer - PCT) #2026-11640-01 Bus Driver - I (Tahoe - TART) #2026-11640 ...

Placer County California

Bus Driver - I

Tahoe City, CA · On-site

$22.30 - $27.85/hr

Tahoe Truckee Area Regional Transit (TART) provides safe and direct means of transportation service ... Bus Driver - I (Auburn/South Placer - PCT) #2026-11640-01 Bus Driver - I (Tahoe - TART) #2026-11640 ...

Placer County

Bus Driver - II

Roseville, CA · On-site

$17.75 - $24.25/hr

Placer County Transit (PCT) provides a safe and direct means of transportation service for western ... Bus Driver - I (Auburn/South Placer - PCT) #2026-11640-01 Bus Driver - I (Tahoe - TART) #2026-11640 ...

Lynwood Unified School District

BUS DRIVER

Lynwood, CA · On-site

$24.65 - $29.75/hr

Monitors students during transit for the purpose of ensuring the safe transportation of all ... School Bus Driver Medical Certificate. * First Aid and CPR Certificate issued by an authorized ...

Placer County California

Bus Driver - II

Roseville, CA · On-site

$27.93 - $34.89/hr

Placer County Transit (PCT) provides a safe and direct means of transportation service for western ... Bus Driver - I (Auburn/South Placer - PCT) #2026-11640-01 Bus Driver - I (Tahoe - TART) #2026-11640 ...

Pegasus Transit Inc

Be Seen First

Class B Passenger Bus Driver

Simi Valley, CA · On-site

$23 - $28/hr

DRIVER CERTIFICATIONS REQUIRED * CLASS B LICENSE * AIR BREAKS * BIG SIZE BUS 40 FEET * PASSANGER ... To follow all Pegasus Transit policies, state and federal regulations, function as a collaborator ...

Lynwood Unified School District

BUS DRIVER

Lynwood, CA

$24.65 - $29.75/hr

BUS DRIVER at Lynwood Unified School District Share on X Print Application Deadline 8/21/2026 4:30 ... during transit for the purpose of ensuring the safe transportation of all students and staff.

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Transit Bus Driver information

See California salary details

$13

$19

$31

How much do transit bus driver jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 8, 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 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.

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 and air brake endorsements, along with a clean driving record. Candidates often undergo training on 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 traffic conditions.

Who are the highest paid transit bus drivers?

The highest paid transit bus drivers typically work in regions with higher living costs and offer premium pay rates, often earning over $50,000 annually. Factors such as experience, seniority, union contracts, and additional certifications can also influence their earnings.

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.

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 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.

Is being a transit bus driver a good job?

Transit bus drivers operate buses to transport passengers and typically require a commercial driver's license. The job offers steady hours, benefits, and the opportunity to work in public service, but it can involve long hours, shift work, and the need for good customer service skills.
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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, 61% Full Time, 34% Part Time, 2% Temporary, 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.

Bus Driver

RATP Dev USA

Santa Maria, CA • On-site

$17.50 - $23.75/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 14 days ago

RATP Dev USA rating

6.2

Company rating: 6.2 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

86th of 97 rated public transport

Job description

RATP Dev USA - Your future. Our destination.
Mission
Are you seeking to make an impactful difference where you make a difference in people's lives each day? If so, come join our team where you are part of a community, not just an employee.
Profile
Requirements and Responsibility of the Bus Driver

  • Acts as front-line point of contact to ensure delivery of quality customer service.
  • Safely operates several types of buses through light to heavy city and freeway traffic safely and prudently.
  • Passengers safely and courteously according to specified routes. To ensure optimization of all routes, the Bus Driver may make only designated stops in the order prescribed, unless otherwise communicated by the Dispatch Office.
  • Complies with all federal, state, and local laws about the operation of buses, traffic, and safety.
  • Ensures the highest quality of bus service is delivered to our customers.
  • Assists customers in a safe, friendly, courteous, and helpful manner. This includes helping customers with disabilities, on and off the wheelchair lift. As requested by the customer, the Bus Driver will assist with safety restraints.
  • Promotes safety awareness and follows safety procedures to reduce or eliminate accidents.
  • Complies with all company safety rules and operates assigned vehicles to meet customer standards.
  • Must be able to operate all equipment safely, efficiently, and adequately, including farebox, lift, radio, emergency equipment, hatches, and rear engine compartment door.
  • Performs pre-trip inspection and completes DVIR in accordance with FMCSR to ensure bus and equipment are in safe, proper working condition.
  • Coordinates detour, accident, and incident information to radio dispatch, and responds to instructions given.
  • Makes effective independent decisions and manages conflicts based on safety, experience, training, and policies.
  • Follows procedures for the collection, processing, and documentation of fares and counting passengers as required.
  • Reports and properly follow up on all accidents or unusual incidents in, on, or near RATP Dev vehicles
  • Other duties as required
  • must be at least 21 years of age or older.
  • requires the candidate to pass a DOT Physical exam
  • Have a High school diploma or equivalent

Pay: 22.50 per hour.
Benefits
We offer competitive compensation and benefits (which vary based on role, location, and business), including medical/dental/vision, 401(k), and paid holiday/vacation.
We are an Equal Opportunity Employer & We Welcome Diversity to our Teams!
A message from the General Manager
The City of Santa Maria operates fixed route and ADA paratransit bus service known as Santa Maria Regional Transit (SMRT). Service area includes the City of Santa Maria, the unincorporated communities of Orcutt, Tanglewood and now regional service to New Cuyama, Lompoc, Vandenberg, Los Alamos, Buellton, Solvang, Santa Ynez and the Chumash reservation. We pride ourselves with bridging cities together and uniting families with our dedicated public transit service. Our diverse fleet of well-serviced vehicles provides our passengers the ability for a safe and comfortable commute. SMRT is in the forefront of modernized transit and Clean Air initiatives by leading the California Central Coast with a goal of being a 100% Zero Emissions Vehicle Fleet by 2026. A BRT System and an Autonomous Vehicle Service will be established by the end of 2023. Our innovative SMRT approach is paving the way for the future of Public Transit! Become part of a team that's making a difference!
Wess Cruz
General Manager

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