How MA Parents Can Become School Bus Drivers (With Training)
Step 1: Choose your path—yellow bus (CDL) or van (7D)
Yellow school bus: Requires a CDL with School Bus (S) and Passenger (P) endorsements, plus a School Bus Driver Certificate. This path typically offers the widest range of routes and hours. Mass.gov+1
School pupil transport van (7D): Requires a 7D certificate (no CDL) and is popular with parents who prefer smaller vehicles or mid-day special-ed runs. Mass.gov
Step 2: Apply to employers that sponsor training
Start with local districts and transportation providers; many in MA pay you to train and will schedule your classroom and behind-the-wheel sessions. Public postings and district career pages in Massachusetts routinely highlight paid training and structured cohorts. Boston Public SchoolsIndeed
Step 3: Complete Massachusetts pre-service training
To earn the School Bus Driver Certificate, MA sets minimum hours that must be finished before you apply:
For the 7D route, the state requires pre-service training through your prospective employer and specific background/medical checks. Mass.gov
Step 4: Pass checks and exams
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Background: CORI/SORI checks are required for school pupil transport roles. Mass.gov
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Medical & vision: A qualifying medical examination and vision screening are part of certification. Mass.gov
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Knowledge & skills tests: Your training prepares you for the CDL knowledge exams, road test, and endorsement exams (for S & P). Mass.gov
Step 5: Earn your certificate and start driving
After you complete training hours and pass your tests, submit your application for the School Bus Driver Certificate (yellow bus) or finalize your 7D certification (van). Then you’ll be assigned a route and paired with a supervisor for your first weeks. Mass.gov
Timeline: how fast can parents get hired?
Many candidates who start in late summer complete training and onboarding in several weeks, depending on scheduling and test availability. Employers often run back-to-school cohorts so you can move from application to route quickly—and get paid while training. Boston Public SchoolsIndeed
FAQs (for parents)
Do I need prior commercial driving experience?
No. Employers expect to train new drivers and will guide you through every step.
Can I work only morning or only afternoon?
Most roles are split shifts (AM + PM). Some employers offer mid-day, charter, or field-trip runs for extra hours.
What if I’m nervous about driving a big bus?
Consider the 7D route (vans) to start; you can always pursue the CDL later. Mass.gov
Will I be off when my kids are off?
Yes—your schedule typically follows the school calendar, with holidays and many school breaks off (summer work is often optional).
Where to find roles with paid training