What Massachusetts Parents Need to Drive a School Bus

The Two Paths in Massachusetts

Full-size (yellow) school bus

• Requires a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) with Passenger (P) and School Bus (S) endorsements, plus a MA School Bus Driver Certificate. Mass.gov

• Massachusetts also requires pre-service hours before you apply for the certificate: 40 hours if you already hold a CDL; 60 hours if you don’t (split between classroom and behind-the-wheel). Mass.gov

Smaller car/van routes (the “7D” option)

• Uses a 7D School Pupil Transport driver’s certificate (no CDL). Application, knowledge test, CORI/SORI/background checks, medical, and short pre-service training (2 hours for first-time) are required. Mass.gov+1

Step-by-Step: CDL + P/S Endorsements (Yellow Bus)

1. Get your Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP): Take written tests (General Knowledge; plus Passenger and School Bus modules if required for your CLP). Mass.gov

2. Complete Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT): Federal rule since Feb 7, 2022—take theory and behind-the-wheel training from a provider listed in FMCSA’s Training Provider Registry. (ELDT sets skills, not minimum hours.) FMCSATraining Provider Registry+1

3. Road/skills test: Schedule your CDL skills exam (includes passenger/school-bus skills). Mass.gov

4. Apply for the MA School Bus Driver Certificate: Submit proof of pre-service hours (40/60), plus state forms. Mass.gov

Medical & vision: MA lists specific standards (e.g., at least 20/40 vision in each eye and adequate peripheral field). You’ll also complete a DOT medical exam as part of licensing/certification. Mass.gov+1

Step-by-Step: 7D (Car/Van) Roles

1. Apply for 7D certificate online, complete eligibility checks, CORI/SORI, and medical requirements. Mass.gov

2. Finish required training: MA currently specifies 2 hours of pre-service for first-time applicants and 8 hours in-service at renewal. Mass.gov

3. Vehicle/equipment rules: 7D vehicles follow RMV standards (equipment, reminder systems, etc.). Mass.gov+1

Training: What Employers Provide

Many MA districts and contractors pay for training and help new parents through the licensing/certificate steps (sometimes with MassHire partnerships). Large providers also advertise paid CDL training. Worcester Public SchoolsFirst Student, Inc.First Student

What Massachusetts Drivers Are Paid (Current Snapshots)

• ZipRecruiter (MA school bus driver): avg $23.00/hr (as of Aug 2025). ZipRecruiter

• Indeed (bus driver in MA): avg $27.20/hr (updated Aug 11, 2025). Indeed

• Glassdoor (school bus driver, MA): avg ~$29/hr (reported Aug 2025). Glassdoor

• Salary.com (school bus driver, MA): middle range $39.3k–$46.9k annually (Aug 1, 2025). Salary.com

• Example posting (First Student, Sudbury): $32.35/hr after training (with $15/hr training rate). First Student

Reality check: Pay varies by town, contract, seniority, and extras (field trips/charters). Always confirm current numbers on the employer’s careers page.

Fast FAQ for Parents

Do I need previous bus experience?
No—new drivers are expected; ELDT + employer training will prep you. FMCSAFirst Student, Inc.

Is there a smaller-vehicle option if a full-size bus feels like too much?
Yes—many employers run 7D car/van routes (popular with parents). Mass.gov

How long is training?
Federally, ELDT focuses on proficiency (no fixed hours), but MA requires specific 40/60-hour pre-service totals for the School Bus Driver Certificate. Training Provider RegistryMass.gov

What medical/vision standards apply?
MA lists minimum vision and other medical standards; you’ll also complete a DOT medical exam. Mass.gov+1