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Truck and Bus Driver/Commercial Vehicle Operator and Instructor

Program Description

Just the Facts

Truck and Bus Driver/Commercial Vehicle Operator and Instructor. A program that prepares individuals to apply technical knowledge and skills to drive trucks and buses, delivery vehicles, for-hire vehicles and other commercial vehicles, or to instruct commerical vehicle operators. Includes instruction in operating gas, diesel, or electrically-powered vehicles; loading and unloading cargo or passengers; reporting delays or accidents on the road; verifying load against shipping papers; arranging transportation for personnel; and keeping records of receipts and fares.

This program is available in these options:

  • Certificate / Diploma
  • Associate degree
  • Bachelor's degree

High School Courses

See the high school courses recommended for programs in this career cluster:

See the high school courses recommended for programs in this pathway:



Additional Information

You may think you know how to drive. But there are some things about driving a bus that you can only learn by doing.

You'll need to know how to calm down an angry commuter who's late for a big appointment. You may have to deal with reckless hooligans causing trouble in the back of your bus.

And every city and state has different streets, traffic rules, signage systems and license requirements.

Bus drivers get most of their training on the job, with a few preparatory classroom sessions. Students typically get training through a private company or through government.

You'll need a special driver's license. The department of transportation in your state issues these. It's just like a usual driver's license, except you'll be qualified to drive buses and trucks as well as a car.

Bus driver training prepares students to become city transit, motorcoach or school bus drivers. Each type has its own on-the-job training requirements. You should know which one you're interested in.

Getting your ticket (that's street talk for getting your bus driver's license) usually involves learning about air brake systems, defensive driving and first aid. Most programs also stress excellent communication skills.

At the end of your training, you may have to take a government road test to get the appropriate license. Fees for special licensing vary. If you're training on the job, your employer may cover this fee.

To be accepted into a bus driver training program, you'll need to prove that you're a responsible driver and meet the minimum age requirement for licensing. Most cities and transit companies won't consider a driver younger than 21.

Most schools and companies also require a high school diploma.

Bus driver training programs are not long. You can often take the courses while you hold down another job.

In the classroom, bus driver trainees review street signs, the rules of the road and discuss special driving situations with an instructor. They also learn about air brake systems, customer service and the city's fare system.

At the end of the classroom section, it's time to hit the road. You'll practice backing up, parking and driving through tight courses. You'll know all about the brakes, lights, doors, steps and everything else.

High school students could benefit from taking courses in automotive mechanics.

Any extracurricular activities that help your time management skills are helpful. And any summer job that stresses customer service or involves driving can also help.


Links

Occupational Outlook Handbook
For more information related to this field of study, see: Bus Drivers

National Association for Pupil Transportation
Database of opportunities for school bus drivers

Driver Ergonomics
Be warned about the occupational hazards of bus driving