California School Bus Drivers Rules & Regulations

The first step to becoming a bus driver is to get a commercial driver's license.

To become a school bus driver in California you have to satisfy the requirements of a commercial driver's license. A bus transports people, so it is considered a commercial vehicle. There are both federal and state regulations that must be met in order to become a bus driver.

Restrictions

Certain restrictions dictate who may become a school bus driver. For example, you must be at least 18 years old to drive a bus in California, and at least 21 to drive a bus across state lines.

Permit Application

To apply for a commercial driver's permit, you can make an appointment with the DMV to make the process go quicker, or you can wait in line on the day you go. When you apply for the bus driving permit, you must have a birth certificate as proof of your residency and legal name. Your social security number must be provided as well. Bring your vehicle, the bus you will be driving, with you so it can be inspected. During the inspection you have to perform certain actions like showing you know how to use the air brakes. You then take the skills test in the bus proving you know how to drive it. If you present a Certificate of Driving Skill signed by you and your employer, then you will not have to take the skills test, only have your vehicle inspected.

Federal Qualifications

There are federal qualifications for driving school buses that must be followed in all states. These require that a person has a clean driving record and only one driver's license. Drivers must be able to read English and understand all road signs. Also, drivers must pass a physical once every two years. Drivers must carry the evidence of their physical on them at all times when driving.

Endorsements

On your license in California, you must have an endorsement indicating that you can drive school buses. This will be an "S" on your license. To get this, you must pass the skills and knowledge tests. These are the same tests that you take to get your commercial license, however, when you get your license, the endorsement "S" is what allows you to legally drive the school bus. To obtain this endorsement you need to bring your permit, school bus you will be driving, and proof of insurance on the day you get your license.

References

• Unofficial DMV Guide: Commercial Driver Education