Picking up and delivering passengers to their destinations safely. Making sure my bus is operationally sound to make it through the shift, by completing a pre trip inspection. Enjoying friendly conversation with my passengers.
CAREER
Transit and Intercity Bus Drivers
Overview
Salary Median (2020)
$48,620
Projected Job Growth (2019-2029)
+8.2% (as fast as the average)
Career
Roadtrip Nation Leaders in This Career
What Transit and Intercity Bus Drivers Do
Drive bus or motor coach, including regular route operations, charters, and private carriage. May assist passengers with baggage. May collect fares or tickets.
Other Job Titles Transit and Intercity Bus Drivers May Have
Bus Driver, Bus Operator, Motor Coach Operator, Transit Bus Driver
How Leaders Describe a Typical Day at Work
On a typical day I would always be punctual. I would start by greeting dispatch and punching in. I would ask if there were any route changes or important information that the drivers should know about. Although there were instances when drivers were not informed and you just deal with the situation as it came. Next came the pre-trip inspection inside and outside of the bus. Fuel if necessary. Clean windows and mirrors. Any need repairs meant I would tell dispatch and take another bus.
Tasks & Responsibilities May Include
- 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 disabled individuals, on and off bus, ensure they are seated properly, help carry baggage, and answer questions about bus schedules or routes.
Education
Level of Education Attained by Transit and Intercity Bus Drivers
Most common level of education among people in
this career: High school diploma or equivalent (84%)
Less than high school diploma
High school diploma or equivalent
Post-secondary certificate
Majors Related to Career
Educational Paths Suggested by Leaders
Suggested Path
High School
Suggested Path
Vocational
CDL Certification
Additional Skills & Experiences That Can Help You Excel
You will need to study and pass a Commercial Drivers License test on a computer and an actual behind the wheel test. Usually performed by your employer, but sometimes by the State of Oregon Department of Motor Vehicles. This will be done in a 40 Foot bus with air breaks. There are many components to a large vehicle and you will need to memorize them.
I recommend having the mindset of safety first. One should be able to make decisions about different roadblock along the way. And all of this will come with experience. Listening and communication is also a good skill to sharpen. Ask advice from dispatch on how to proceed. Know your company's policies about all issues that may come up. Having knowledge about the mechanics of the vehicle you are driving. Love working independently and traveling. I have had breakdowns and have dealt with rudeness.
Getting Started
Recommended First Step for:
High School Students
Get your drivers license and maintain a good driving record until you are 21 and have 5 years of driving experience.
Obtain your Class A CDL.
Everyone
This page includes information from theO*NET 26.1 Databaseby the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA). Used under theCC BY 4.0license. O*NET® is a trademark of USDOL/ETA.
