School bus drivers don’t get enough credit these days. After all, they’re responsible for driving students from home to school and back, all in a safe, responsible manner. School bus drivers must handle inclement weather, congested traffic, and road conditions in their routes. It’s certainly not a job for everyone. Still, if you’re interested, check out these steps to become a professional school bus driver so you’re ready for the road ahead.
Earn Your CDL
The first step to starting your life as a school bus driver is to earn your Commercial Driver’s License (CDL). Driving a heavy vehicle, such as a school bus, requires a professional license that’s different from a standard driver’s license. That’s why school bus drivers must have a CDL. Take the necessary training courses to pass your CDL certification class. It can take months of preparation to ensure you’re ready to operate a school bus or other large commercial vehicle. You’ll also need an “S” endorsement to show employers you’re qualified to operate school buses. Once you’ve completed your CDL courses, you’re ready for training under a school’s supervision.
Get Trained
It’s important to understand the job requirements expected of you. There’s more than just transporting schoolchildren to and from home. Being a great bus driver requires clear communication, good hand-eye coordination, quick decision-making skills, and patience. After all, dealing with rowdy passengers while adhering to traffic laws is a serious skill. You’re expected to engage with parents and students often, so keep a clear, calm voice when doing so. Of course, it requires quick and seamless decision-making skills to maneuver a school bus in bad weather, traffic, or unforeseen road conditions too. Practice each of these skills to become a professional.
Drive for a Local School
The last step to becoming a professional school bus driver is to drive for a local school. Get hired through a bus driving company or local school district. Build your skills to become the best school bus driver possible. You’ll need to demonstrate proper driving ability every couple of years in driving examinations to ensure you’re still qualified. Otherwise, once you have your CDL with the right specifications, you’re ready. Be sure to follow any tips for first-time school bus drivers to help you excel at the new job.