Becoming A School Bus Driver

  • How To Become A Bus Driver

    • Must be 21 years of age or older
    • Must obtain a Class B Commercial Driver’s License with a Passenger and School Bus Endorsement
    • Must have a clean driving record with no DUI
    • Cannot be Insulin dependant

     

    How To Apply

    • Complete a classified application online at the Alabama State Department of Education Standard Application webpage. 
    • Apply for the Bus Driver Preliminary Interview by going to the Alabama State Department of Education Standard Application webpage
    • After the Preliminary Interview qualified candidates will be invited to attend the training class.
    • You must do the following before attending the training class:
      1. Complete a Background Check 
      2. Complete a pre-employment drug screening. Contact the Transportation Department at 205-228-3002 once the background check has cleared to schedule the drug screening.
    • You must have your CDL before attending the training class.

     

    To Obtain A Class B Commercial Driver’s License

    • Pass 4 tests given at the license office.  Study manuals are available at your local license office.
      1. General Knowledge
      2. Passenger
      3. Air Brakes
      4. School Bus
    • Cost for the CDL test is $25.00.

     

    After Passing The CDLTest:

    • You will be given a Learner’s Permit 
    • Attend a 4 hour training class from Trussville City Schools 
    • Attend a 12 hour State Department of Education New Bus Driver Certification Class, 3 days
    • Score at least 80% on written test given at end of 12 hour instruction class
    • Pass a three part performance test
      1. Pre-Trip Inspection
      2. Basic Control Skills Tests (backing)
      3. Driving Skills Test  Practice days will be available for two weeks prior to the New Bus Driver Certification Class.

     

    Other Required Documentation

    • Visit the Alabama Applicant Processing Services webpage to obtain a background check or by phone call (866)989-9316.  Cost for background check will be $51.40.(COST FOR BACKGROUND CHECK WILL BE $51.40)
    • Required Documentation
      1. A Class B CDL with Passenger and School Bus Endorsement
      2. Copy of high school diploma, college diploma, or GED
      3. Copy of Social Security Card
      4. Pre-employment drug screening.  Call the transportation department at 205.228.3002 to schedule once the background check has cleared.
      5. Alabama School Bus Driver Physical Examination Report.  Visit the Alabama Department of Education Alabama School Bus Driver Physical Examination Report webpage to download the form.  Cost for physical will be $50.00 to $100.00. 

     

    Who To Contact

    Anyone wishing to drive a school bus in Trussville should contact the Transportation Department at 205-228-3002.