Bus Driver Training

PLEASE BE ADVISED

• A commitment of three weeks minimum is required to complete this training.
•  Prior to orientation, all 4 DOT (Knowledge, School Bus, Passenger, and Air Brakes) tests must be taken and passed.
• A School Bus Driver Abstract MUST BE SENT with this referral.
•  CDL Permit MUST be obtained before the start of Training.
• Parent must be able to read, write, AND speak fluent English to be eligible for this training.

On-site child care is NOT provided for this training



If you have questions about this program, please contact Davina Miller-Leach, Transportation Coordinator at (425) 917-7958 or (253) 778-7958.

Training Schedule:

Orientation: May 3, 2027, 9:00 AM - 4:30 PM

Week One:

May 10-14, 2027 - Monday-Friday, 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM

• In-classroom training for your school bus authorization. Focus on policy & procedures.
• Washington State laws and federal regulations.

Week Two:

May 17-21, 2027 - Monday-Friday, 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM

• Commercial driver's license (CDL) pre- and post-trip, behind-the-wheel training.

Week Three:

May 24-28, 2027 - Monday-Friday, 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM

• Pre-trip prep and testing.
• Upon completion of training and testing, mentoring begins.

FAQS:

What are the requirements to apply for this training?

Must be 21 years old or older, have a good driving record (although it does not have to be perfect), a High School diploma or GED, and pass a DOT physical and drug screen. Employers will require you to pass a background check as well as a drug/alcohol screen. You must speak, read and write English fluently in order to participate in this training. You must have at least five years of experience as a licensed driver of a passenger vehicle (WAC 392-144-101).

What type of certificate or license will I receive when I have completed training?

Upon successful completion of the training and the required tests you will receive a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) Class B with passenger and school bus endorsement and air brake restriction removed. These CDL endorsements allow you to drive a forty (40) foot school bus, a single truck like a box or dump truck, a tour bus, a metro bus, or any smaller vehicle that requires a CDL. With the proper training you can also upgrade to a Class A CDL within one (1) year.

Who is eligible?

Any current Head Start/EHS or ECEAP parent/guardian.

What is the time commitment?

Approximately 3 weeks or more. Additional hours may be required depending on which program will be financing your training. The classes are scheduled with some flexibility for student needs, however, full-time participation is required.

What are the chances of getting employment following training?

Excellent. PSESD is always hiring (PSESD new drivers start a pay rate of over $29.42 an hour). In addition, school districts throughout the Puget Sound region are experiencing a critical shortage of drivers. With a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) other types of transportation and driving options are also available.

How much can a bus or commercial driver expect to be paid?

The average starting pay rate ranges from $19.00 per hour or more.

How will my training be paid for?

Head Start and ECEAP will help to support child care and mileage costs. The cost of the test, licenses, and driver’s abstract will be reimbursed. Check will be mailed to the participant once training is complete.

How do I apply? How do I refer a parent?

• Family Support should meet with parents and discuss the Parent Professional Opportunities available. All referrals must have a School Bus Driver complete abstract from DOL sent to PSESD after submission of the electronic Referral form. Abstracts can be purchased at the local DOL. Cost for abstracts will be reimbursed once applicants turn in a signed Claim for Reimbursement with an original receipt attached.
• Complete the Parent Professional Learning Electronic Referral Form.