Career Videos

Video Transcript

Whether they’re going to work or crossing the country, passengers depend on the skills and courtesy of bus drivers to get them where they need to go. Bus drivers transport people between locations in a city, and across state and national borders. They must drive through all types of weather conditions, handle passenger emergencies, and keep passengers safe, all while maintaining a schedule. Local transit bus drivers follow a daily schedule to drive passengers on regular routes in cities and suburbs. They may collect fares and issue transfers, and often answer questions about schedules and routes. Intercity bus drivers transport passengers between cities or towns, picking up and dropping off passengers at bus stations or downtown stops. Charter bus drivers take passengers on trips or sightseeing tours. Motor coach drivers usually stay with the passengers for the length of the trip, and help passengers load and unload baggage. Most employers prefer a high school diploma or equivalent. Once hired, bus drivers get 1 to 3 months of training, starting on a driving course... then in light traffic... eventually taking practice runs on the type of route they’ll drive after training. Drivers may work nights and weekends. All bus drivers must have a commercial driver’s license —or CDL— with an endorsement for driving a bus… good hearing and vision… and a good driving record. Some employers offer the opportunity to earn a CDL on the job.