School bus drivers play a critical role in every community. They get students to and from school safely, consistently, and on time. Our School Bus Driver Training prepares you to meet state requirements, earn your CDL B with the proper endorsements, and step into a role that provides stability, flexibility, and purpose.
Whether looking for part-time work, a career change, or a way to stay active and engaged, this is your starting point.
Why Become a School Bus Driver?
School bus driving offers a unique combination of structure and flexibility.
- Work a schedule that aligns with the school day.
- Have evenings, weekends, and holidays off.
- Stay active and engaged in your community.
- Take on a role built on responsibility and trust.
- Find steady, reliable work with ongoing demand.
This is a practical option for parents, retirees, and adults looking for a second career.
Interested in Bus Driving And Unsure Where to Begin?
Let's make sure you qualify.
- Are you at least 18 years old?
- Do you have a valid driver's license?
- Can you pass a DOT physical?
If so, step 1 is to get your Commercial Learner's Permit (CLP). We can even help you prepare for it. In our prep class, you’ll review key safety concepts, air brakes, combination vehicles, and essential terminology while gaining a clear understanding of what to expect from the Iowa CLP exams and the CDL program. It’s a great way to explore the field and prepare with confidence.
Already have your CDL Permit?
What You Learn in School Bus Driving Training
Cover entry-level driver training under the federal motor carrier safety regulations for commercial drivers. We prepare you to obtain the Passenger (P) and School Bus (S) endorsements, which you need to operate a route and take children and teens to and from school.
Similar Programs
Not quite right? Consider these instead:
Why wait? Start today.
Here's the details about signing up for our School Bus Driver training.
Complete your Department of Transportation (DOT) physical examination with a certified medical examiner.
Study thoroughly and reach out to your local DMV to schedule your test appointment. On test day, you'll need to present documentation that verifies your identity, citizenship, legal presence, Social Security Number, and residency.
Requirements vary by state, so be sure to confirm specific guidelines with your DMV. Some states require a REAL ID before testing. If you do not have a REAL ID, you may be required to obtain one beforehand. In most cases, the documentation required for your Commercial Learner's Permit (CLP) is the same as for a REAL ID, so it may be efficient to apply for both during the same visit.
Commonly Accepted Documents Include:
- Proof of identity: U.S. or foreign passport, U.S. military ID, state driver’s license or ID, or other government-issued photo ID with a signature
- Proof of citizenship: For U.S. citizens: U.S. birth certificate or U.S. passport
- Proof of legal presence for non-citizens: Permanent Resident Card (Green Card), unexpired foreign passport with valid U.S. visa, or other specific immigration documents
- Proof of Social Security Number: Social Security card, W-2 form, SSA-1099 form, or pay stub with your name and SSN
- Proof of residency: Utility bills, bank statements, rental agreements, insurance policies, or official mail from government agencies
Need more information about commonly accepted documents? Visit these websites:
- Iowa DOT Commercial Learner Permit
- Iowa DOT Real ID Required Documents
- Illinois Driver Services Commercial Learner Permit
Important: Your driver’s license must be valid and not within six months of expiration.
Test for your learner’s permit at the DMV. Take the General Knowledge, Air Brakes, Passenger, and School Bus tests. Pass and pay $12* for your permit.
To prepare for the test, use these helpful resources**:
* Price of permit varies by state
** These study guides are for the state of Iowa; please check with your local DMV for your state's study guides.
After you pass the CLP, request a Certified Abstract of Driving Record from your state's DMV, cost varies by state. It shows that you have a valid CLP, a medical card, and driver's license.
Tom Monroe
Learn from the best. Our expert instructor has been in the industry for 47 years. From driver to VP of Safety Operations to trainer, he's worked in every facet of the business. Industry leaders know him, respect him, and count on him to prepare the next generation of skilled drivers.
Dedicated Coordinator
We know your time is valuable and we honor it. Our program has one coordinator who is dedicated to supporting you every step of the way. One call or one email, to one person. Get all of your questions answered and a familiar face and voice who recognizes yours, too.
Contact Thalia by emailOr call the CDL hotline at 563-441-4217
Ready to Launch?
Start here. Earn a certificate. Build new skills in a short-term program. Step into the field and enjoy the edge you now have in the job market. From baking to digital analytics, we give you a launching pad.
Where do you want to go?Employment and Wage Outlook
How to Pay for EICC
While federal financial aid is not an option for programs offered through our Continuing Education department, financial help is still available. Contact us to find out what you qualify for.
Contact UsContact Us
We know your time is valuable and we're dedicated to supporting you every step of the way. One call or one email, to get all of your questions answered.
Office Hours:Monday - Friday, 8 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.
Thalia Clement, Continuing Education Coordinator
Bus Driver/CDL Class B Location:
Blong Technology Center
8500 Hillandale Road
Davenport, IA 52806
Map and Directions
Muscatine Community College
152 Colorado St.
Muscatine, IA 52761
Map and Directions
Public Notice of Title VI Program Rights
The Eastern Iowa Community Colleges gives public notice of its’ policy to uphold and assure full compliance with the non-discrimination requirements of Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and related Nondiscrimination authorities. Title VI and related Nondiscrimination authorities stipulate that no person in the United States of America shall on the grounds of race, color, national origin, sex, age, or disability be excluded from the participation in, be denied the benefits of, or be otherwise subjected to discrimination under any program or activity receiving Federal financial assistance.
Any person who desires more information regarding Eastern Iowa Community Colleges Title VI Program can contact its Title VI Program Coordinator – Brooke Sweeney-Adrian -- at the address noted below.
Any person who believes they have, individually or as a member of any specific class of persons, been subjected to discrimination on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, age, or disability, has the right to file a formal complaint. Any such complaint must be in writing and submitted within 180 days following the date of the alleged occurrence to:
Brooke Sweeney-Adrian
Eastern Iowa Community Colleges
101 W. Third St., Davenport, IA 52801
563-336-3322
bradrianFREEEICC