How to Become a Bus Driver All types of bus drivers have to
obtain a CDL. Bus drivers must have a commercial driver’s
license (CDL) and complete a short training. A driver must also
meet hearing and vision requirements. In addition, they often
need a high school diploma or the equivalent. Bus drivers
typically go through 1 to 3 months of training. Part of the
training is spent on a driving course, where drivers practice
various maneuvers with a bus. They then begin to drive in light
traffic and eventually make practice runs on the type of route
that they expect to drive. New drivers make regularly scheduled
trips with passengers, accompanied by an experienced driver who
gives helpful tips, answers questions, and evaluates the new
driver's performance. Some drivers’ training is also spent in
the classroom. They learn their company’s rules and regulations,
state and municipal traffic laws, and safe driving practices.
Drivers also learn about schedules and bus routes, fares, and
how to interact with passengers.