Safety & Education Center

Promote safer routes through training and shared knowledge.

Students boarding a yellow school bus outdoors.

Careers & Safety

Maryland School Bus Contractors Association supports professional school bus drivers across Maryland. Our contractor members employ dedicated drivers who ensure safe, reliable student transportation every day. All drivers are required to comply with FMCSA regulations, Maryland COMAR rules, and county-specific standards.

Becoming a Certified School Bus Driver

To become a certified school bus driver, a trainee must:

  • Meet MVA licensing requirements, including CDL Class B (or A) with P & S endorsements. Some counties require Air Brake certification.
  • Have no more than two current points on their driving record and a satisfactory past record.
  • Have no criminal history.
  • Be 21 years or older.
  • Pass a DOT physical conducted by a certified medical doctor.
  • Receive a negative controlled substances test based on federal CDL guidelines.
  • Receive a negative controlled substances test based on federal CDL guidelines.
  • ● Complete preservice instruction, including classroom training and a minimum of 10 hours of on-road experience.

Maintaining Certification

School bus drivers must:

  • Maintain licensing requirements and a clean driving record.
  • Attend ongoing training and pass a yearly DOT physical.
  • Undergo random drug and alcohol testing, criminal history monitoring, and driving evaluations.

The Role of a School Bus Driver

Drivers safely transport 45–60 students daily to and from school. While driving, they:

  • Monitor student behavior
  • Navigate traffic and weather conditions
  • Ensure students start their education safely and on time

Many drivers transport the same students year after year, forming strong connections and witnessing student achievements firsthand.

Interested in Becoming a Driver?

If you want to start a career as a school bus driver, send us a message and learn how Maryland School Bus Contractors Association can help you get started.

Take the Next Step
Child boarding yellow school bus, driver smiling.

National School Bus Safety Week

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Operation Safe Stop?

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