How to Become a School Bus Driver in Pennsylvania

Learning about loading and unloading students safely will be part of the training.

With the safety of school children of primary importance, applicants to become school bus drivers in Pennsylvania go through specialized training and background checks. The new school bus driver will receive training in how to relate to both children and their parents, how to handle discipline problems and how to properly drive a school bus for the safety of all occupants.

Instructions

1. Obtain the School Bus Driver's Physical Examination Form (DL-704). You must pass the medical examination that will include vision, hearing, alcohol abuse and drug testing, a check for disease or physical impairment and a mental health check.

2. Submit the completed form DL-704 to the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation along with Form DL-31CD "Application for Commercial Learner's Permit." Complete the training for a commercial driver's license that must include at least 20 hours of instruction, divided between 14 hours in the classroom and six hours in the bus.

3. Pass the background checks required by the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation including criminal history checks performed by the FBI and the Pennsylvania State Police and a child abuse history check.

4. Pass the road test that will consist of a vision exam, knowledge of the bus and its equipment, driving skills and unloading of students and railroad crossing requirements.

5. Maintain your license by completing a refresher course every four years with a minimum of seven hours in the classroom and three hours in the bus, passing the School Bus Knowledge Test and completing another road test.

References

• Pennsylvania Dept. of Transporations: What Do I Need To Do To Become A School Bus Driver In PA?
• Pennsylvania School Bus Driver's Manual
• Pennsylvania Dept. of Transportation: School Bus Driver Licensing Process Fact Sheet

Resources

• The Pennsylvania Code: Chapter 71. School Bus Drivers