Driver Requirements

The following is a list of procedures a potential trainee must go through to obtain a school bus driver’s certificate:

1. Minimum age requirement is 18 years of age.
2. 20 hours minimum of original classroom training with an additional 10 hours of First Aid and Commercial Drivers License information. All instruction must be given by a state certified instructor. These classes are often provided through adult education programs or the Kern County Superintendent of Schools Office.
3. Physical examination (DOT), with a drug and alcohol screen (DL51).
4. A California Commercial Drivers License class A or B with passenger, School Bus, and Air Brake endorsements.
5. Interview at CHP. Fingerprinting will be performed to initiate a complete background check, of any driving and/or criminal violations. A current Department of Motor Vehicles 10-year printout (H-6) must be submitted at the time of interview.
6. 20 hours minimum of behind the wheel training with additional vehicle inspection training. This training will require the support and sponsorship of a school district or other provider who operates a legal school bus.
7. When the background check clears at CHP, a written test on rules and regulations as well as first aid, must be passed.
8. Once written tests have been passed and behind the wheel training is complete, the trainee must pass a drive test with CHP.
9. A temporary certificate is issued after a successful drive test. The trainee must go back to DMV to show proof the entire process has been completed. Then you will be an certified school bus driver.

For further information on becoming a school bus driver please contact:

Kern County Superintendent of Schools
Transportation Training Department
(661) 852-5800