School Bus Driver Salary 2025: $47,920 Median, How to Start, and Outlook
The median salary for school bus drivers in the U.S. hits $47,920 per year, according to the latest Bureau of Labor Statistics data. That's roughly $23 an hour, with the typical range spanning from $29,240 at the 10th percentile to $65,730 at the 90th. With over 402,930 drivers employed nationwide, this is a stable role that keeps America's kids moving — but pay varies widely by state and experience.
How much Bus Drivers, School earn
The median annual wage for school bus drivers is $47,920, with a mean wage of $48,430 (about $23/hour). The lowest-earning 10% make $29,240 or less, while the top 10% earn above $65,730. These figures come from the BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics for 2024.
- Median: $47,920
- Mean: $48,430
- 10th percentile: $29,240
- 90th percentile: $65,730
Pay by state
Where you drive the bus matters a lot. The highest-paying state is Massachusetts, with an average salary of $65,170. Washington follows at $63,370, then Connecticut ($61,520), California ($61,040), and New Jersey ($59,430). At the other end, Alabama pays the least at $17,630, with Mississippi at $30,640 and Louisiana at $29,450. A driver in Massachusetts can earn nearly four times what a driver in Alabama makes.
Keep in mind these are average figures; within each state, local district contracts and union agreements can shift pay up or down.
- Highest: Massachusetts $65,170
- Washington $63,370
- Connecticut $61,520
- California $61,040
- New Jersey $59,430
- Lowest: Alabama $17,630
- Mississippi $30,640
- Louisiana $29,450
How to become Bus Drivers, School
To become a school bus driver, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, plus a commercial driver's license (CDL) with passenger and school bus endorsements. Most states require you to be at least 18 (some require 21), pass a physical exam, a background check, and a drug test. Many school districts provide paid training to help you get the CDL.
- Earn a high school diploma or equivalent.
- Obtain a CDL with passenger (P) and school bus (S) endorsements.
- Pass physical, background, and drug screenings.
- Complete district-provided training (often paid).
- Entry-level roles start immediately after licensing.
Job outlook
The BLS projects employment of school bus drivers will grow just 0.2% from 2024 to 2034 — that's slower than the average for all occupations. Despite minimal growth, about 61,000 job openings are expected each year over the decade, mostly due to workers retiring or leaving the field. The role remains essential: school transportation doesn't go away.
Frequently asked questions
What is the salary for school bus drivers in 2025?
The national median salary is $47,920 per year, with a typical range from $29,240 to $65,730. These are BLS estimates for the occupation 'Bus Drivers, School'.
Do school bus drivers get paid during summer?
Most school bus drivers are only paid during the school year (typically 9-10 months), but some districts offer summer work for field trips or extended programs. Year-round employment is less common.
How many hours per week do school bus drivers work?
Many work split shifts — morning and afternoon routes — totaling about 20-30 hours per week, though some drive field trips or extracurricular routes for more hours.
Is school bus driving a full-time or part-time job?
It can be either. Some districts offer full-time positions with benefits, but many drivers work part-time (20-30 hours per week). Full-time drivers often have additional duties like maintenance or shuttle runs.
What are the main requirements to become a school bus driver?
You need a high school diploma, a CDL with passenger and school bus endorsements, a clean driving record, and must pass physical, background, and drug tests. Age minimums vary by state (usually 18-21).
Salary figures are U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates (OEWS / Employment Projections). For informational purposes only; not career or financial advice. See the full Bus Drivers, School data.