Bus drivers, transit and intercity
SOC Code: 53-3052Also known as:
Bus Driver, Bus Operator, CDL Bus Driver (Commercial Driver's License Bus Driver), Charter Bus Driver, Charter Coach Driver
Median Annual Salary
$57,440
+4.3% growth (2024-2034)
21K
Openings/Year
159K
Current Jobs
What Bus drivers, transit and intercity Do
Drive bus or motor coach, including regular route operations, charters, and private carriage. May assist passengers with baggage. May collect fares or tickets.
💰 Salary
$57,440
Median annual wage (2024)
📈 Job Growth
+4.3%
Faster than average
🎓 Education
High school diploma or equivalent
Typical entry-level requirement
🚀 Annual Openings
21K
Projected average per year
📚 On-the-Job Training
Moderate-term on-the-job training
Expected training period
Employment Projections (2024-2034)
Current Employment (2024)
158,800
Projected Employment (2034)
165,600
Related Careers
School bus monitors
$34,980 •
-2.7% growth
Bus drivers, school
$47,040 •
+0.2% growth
Shuttle drivers and chauffeurs
$36,670 •
+6.7% growth
Taxi drivers
$36,220 •
+11.1% growth
Subway and streetcar operators
$84,830 •
+3.4% growth
Top Skills Required
Operation and Control
Operations Monitoring
Active Listening
Critical Thinking
Service Orientation
Daily Tasks & Responsibilities
- Drive vehicles over specified routes or to specified destinations according to time schedules, complying with traffic regulations to ensure that passengers have a smooth and safe ride.
- Park vehicles at loading areas so that passengers can board.
- Inspect vehicles and check gas, oil, and water levels prior to departure.
- Announce stops to passengers.
- Assist passengers, such as elderly or individuals with disabilities, on and off bus, ensure they are seated properly, help carry baggage, and answer questions about bus schedules or routes.
- Collect tickets or cash fares from passengers.
- Handle passenger emergencies or disruptions.
- Report delays or accidents.
- Advise passengers to be seated and orderly while on vehicles.
- Regulate heating, lighting, and ventilating systems for passenger comfort.
Technology & Tools
📚 Entry-Level Education
High school diploma or equivalent
Most common requirement
🎯 Recommended Education
High School Diploma
O*NET recommended level
Degree Programs for Bus drivers, transit and intercity
These degree programs can prepare you for a career as a bus drivers, transit and intercity:
Truck and Bus Driver/Commercial Vehicle Operator and Instructor
21,399 degrees awarded •
228 colleges offer this program
Best Colleges for Becoming a Bus drivers, transit and intercity
Ranked by Repit grade, then by degrees in related programs. These are the top-rated colleges that prepare students to become bus drivers, transit and intercity.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How much do bus drivers, transit and intercity make?
The median annual salary for bus drivers, transit and intercity is $57,440.
What education do bus drivers, transit and intercity need?
Most bus drivers, transit and intercity positions require a high school diploma or equivalent.
Common degree programs include Truck and Bus Driver/Commercial Vehicle Operator and Instructor.
Is becoming a bus drivers, transit and intercity a good career choice?
Bus drivers, transit and intercity is projected to see +4.3% job growth from 2024 to 2034,
which is about average for all occupations. With approximately 20,900 job openings expected annually,
there are good opportunities for those entering the field.
What are the best colleges for bus drivers, transit and intercity?
Top colleges for aspiring bus drivers, transit and intercity include
Uintah Basin Technical College, Tennessee College of Applied Technology-Jackson, U.S. Truck Driver Training School, Central Technology Center, Ohio Business College-Dayton-Driving Academy.
These schools are ranked based on their Repit grade and the number of graduates in related programs.
What other job titles are similar to bus drivers, transit and intercity?
Bus drivers, transit and intercity may also be known as: Bus Driver, Bus Operator, CDL Bus Driver (Commercial Driver's License Bus Driver), Charter Bus Driver, Charter Coach Driver, Charter Driver, City Bus Driver, Coach Operator, Courtesy Bus Driver, Day Haul Charter Bus Driver, Farm Charter Bus Driver, Interstate Bus Driver, Jitney Driver, Mobile Lounge Driver or Operator, Motor Bus Driver, Motor Coach Bus Driver, Motor Coach Driver, Motor Coach Operator, Motor Coach Tour Operator, Motorcoach Driver.
These titles often refer to similar roles with varying responsibilities or specializations.