Procedure for Becoming a Bus Driver
These steps are sequential. (Updated 8/15/22)
- Fill out District Application and Pass a Background Check.
- (A person with drug convictions may not drive a school bus.)
- (A person who has had a DUI within the past ten years may not drive.)
- Get a DOT physical medical card. This must be done before taking the CDL tests. Give a copy of your physical form to the District. (You must pass a physical a minimum of every two years.)
- Get a CDL License. (This has to be renewed every five years.)
- Pass the School Bus test
- Pass the Passenger test
- Pass the General test
- Pass the Air Brakes test
- Acquire a temporary CDL (Learner’s Permit).
- Complete the Entry Level BTW (behind the wheel) driving. It is approximately 12 Hours with a Certified District Bus Trainer. The District will line this up.
- Drive with a 3rd Party Tester (The Bus Skills Driving Test is usually in Richfield) and successfully pass this driving test.
- Provide a copy of your permanent CDL to the District.
- Take and Pass a Pre-Employment Drug Test. (Scheduled by the District)
- Be eligible for quarterly random drug tests.
- Satisfactorily complete the State’s Physical Performance Assessment.
- Pass an MVR (motor vehicle record) of your driving record. You can’t have more than 100 pts.
- Complete the District/State’s classroom instruction through the online course.
To retain your bus driving position, the driver must complete continuing education, earn 10 pts per year, and renew their bus driving certification with the State Board of Education when their CDL expires.
Training each year:
1. Training each August before school starts
2. Other training as provided.