School Bus Driving Laws

School bus driving laws protect children and communities. Drivers are responsible for the safe transport of school-age children from their homes to schools, from schools to home and for academic trips away from school during the school day. The laws that govern school bus driving affect not only the driver of the school bus, but other drivers as well.

Training and Background

School bus driving laws require that all drivers be trained extensively behind the wheel, be current on driving laws and regulations and certified to drive a school bus. School bus drivers must also undergo a rigorous criminal background check.

Licensing

School bus drivers must have a Department of Transportation Medical Certificate, which states they are physically healthy enough to drive large equipment. Following training, laws require drivers to update their driver's license with the Department of Public Safety and/or Department of Motor Vehicles.

Random Drug and Alcohol Screenings

As a safety precaution, school bus driving laws require that drivers submit for random drug and alcohol screenings to be given at the discretion of the city. Drug and alcohol screenings are mandatory, and refusal to comply can lead to employee termination.

Safety Meetings and Ongoing Education

Like school teachers, drivers are required to attend regular safety meetings and are required to keep their skills up to date by attending training sessions and seminars.

Crossing Train Tracks

All school buses are required to come to a complete and full stop before crossing any railroad tracks. The bus driver must visually verify that no train is approaching from either direction before crossing the tracks.

Stopping for School Buses

All traffic is required to respect the stopping zone for school buses loading or unloading. Cars may not pass a school bus while it is parked with red lights flashing and a stop sign out. School buses may not begin acceleration from a full and complete stop until all students are seated.