School Bus Driver Qualifications and Licensing
Licensing basics
A Pennsylvania school bus driver must hold a CDL (Class A or B) with P and S endorsements, a valid DOT medical examiner's certificate, and the required state and federal background clearances. The S endorsement requires a knowledge test and a skills test in a school bus. School bus drivers must also complete the state-approved school bus driver training program and any refresher required by the employer.
Background and character checks
Pennsylvania school bus drivers must pass:
- Pennsylvania State Police criminal history check;
- FBI fingerprint-based criminal history check;
- Pennsylvania Child Abuse History Clearance;
- drug and alcohol testing under CDL rules;
- a driving record review and medical qualification.
Certain criminal convictions, license suspensions, and drug or alcohol violations disqualify an applicant or cause removal from driving. Drivers must report convictions and changes in medical status.
Worked example
An applicant has a valid Class B CDL, a P endorsement, and a clean driving record, but has not yet received the child abuse clearance. The applicant cannot legally transport school students until all clearances and training are complete. A CDL alone is not enough.
Traps
Thinking a CDL with P is sufficient. Forgetting that S requires P. Assuming an out-of-state background check satisfies Pennsylvania. Letting a medical card expire. Failing to report a conviction. A school bus driver must also meet physical and vision standards, and corrective lenses may be a restriction on the license.