School Bus Jobs for Entry Level Drivers
CDL S endorsement + 6 months - 1 year experience. Pay boost: +$2,000 - $6,000/year.
School Bus for Entry Level Drivers
The School Bus endorsement is required to operate a school bus. It covers all the Passenger endorsement knowledge areas plus school-bus-specific procedures including student management, loading zone safety, railroad crossing protocols, and emergency evacuation with children. Many states have additional requirements beyond the federal CDL endorsement, including state-level certifications and extended background checks.
You have completed your initial training period and have been driving solo for several months. You are building confidence in your skills and establishing your safety record. At this stage, more carriers are willing to hire you and pay rates start improving noticeably.
Requirements
- • Valid CDL (Class A, B, or C depending on bus size)
- • Pass the School Bus written knowledge test (20 questions, 80% to pass)
- • Pass the School Bus skills test in a school bus
- • Complete Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) from an FMCSA-registered provider if first-time applicant
- • Extended background check (many states require FBI fingerprint check and child abuse registry clearance)
Jobs with S Endorsement
FAQ
Can entry level drivers get the School Bus endorsement?
Yes, entry level drivers can add the S endorsement to their CDL. It requires passing an additional written test. However, most carriers prefer at least 6-12 months of experience before assigning school bus loads.
How much more do school bus drivers with 6 months - 1 year experience earn?
The S endorsement adds +$2,000 - $6,000/year to your base pay. Combined with 6 months - 1 year of driving experience, you can expect to earn at the higher end of that range.
Is the S endorsement worth it for entry level drivers?
Getting the endorsement early is a smart career move — it opens doors even if you don't haul school bus immediately. The investment is under $200 and the ROI is significant.