The job market for bus drivers in the United States

There are currently an estimated 179,300 bus drivers in the United States. The bus driver job market is expected to grow by 9.0% between 2016 and 2026.

How employable are bus drivers?

CareerExplorer rates bus drivers with a C employability rating, meaning this career should provide moderate employment opportunities for the foreseeable future. Over the next 10 years, it is expected the US will need 20,200 bus drivers. That number is based on 16,100 additional bus drivers, and the retirement of 4,100 existing bus drivers.

Are bus drivers in demand?

Demand for bus drivers is projected to remain relatively flat over the next decade. Most job opportunities in the field are expected to be created by drivers who retire. Aspiring drivers will encounter strong competition, particularly for higher paying positions with public transit authorities. In rapidly growing suburban areas, school bus driving jobs will likely account for the majority of openings, as these are typically part-time positions with high turnover and less stringent training requirements. This growth, however, may be tempered by limited school district budgets. Employment prospects for intercity motor coach drivers will depend on tourism levels; seasonal and charter requirements; increasing popularity of train travel; and fluctuations in the economy. Generally, bus drivers in the U.S. are high school graduates and need to hold a commercial driver’s license (CDL) and specific endorsements for the types of vehicles they operate. They must also meet state requirements of age and overall health; vision and hearing standards; and drug screening. Those who have clean driving records and who are willing to work a part-time or irregular schedule will be in most demand and have the best job prospects. Patience and customer service skills are also highly valued assets for bus drivers. Opportunities for promotion in the field are limited, but experienced drivers may become supervisors, dispatchers, or driving instructors.

What’s the supply of bus drivers?

The bus driver industry is concentrated in California, New York, Texas

Bus Driver job market by state