What are Bus Drivers, Transit and Intercity?
Bus Driver, Transit and Intercity A Bus Driver, Transit and Intercity, is a professional responsible for transporting passengers on a set route or for a charter trip. They must safely navigate through various traffic and weather conditions while adhering to a strict schedule. They are also responsible for the well-being and comfort of their passengers, which may include collecting fares, assisting with baggage, and providing information about routes and schedules.
Typical Education
A high school diploma or equivalent is the typical educational requirement for this role, though on-the-job training is also crucial.
Salary Range in the United States
The median annual salary for bus drivers, transit and intercity was $60,170 in May 2024. The lowest 10% earned less than $37,630, and the highest 10% earned more than $82,660.
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Bus Drivers, Transit and Intercity
Day in the Life
How to Become a Bus Driver, Transit and Intercity
- Obtain a Commercial Driver's License (CDL): A CDL is the most critical requirement for this job. You must pass both a written knowledge test and a driving test. A passenger (P) endorsement is also required.
- Complete a Training Program: Once hired, most companies provide 1 to 3 months of on-the-job training. This includes practicing maneuvers on a driving course, driving on different routes, and learning company procedures and safety protocols.
- Pass a Background Check and Physical Exam: Most employers require a clean driving record, a background check, and a physical exam to ensure you are fit to operate a bus safely.
- Develop Key "Soft" Skills: Patience, strong customer service skills, and good hand-eye coordination are essential for dealing with passengers and navigating traffic.
- Stay Current on Regulations: Be prepared to stay up-to-date with federal and state regulations, which may require periodic physicals and drug and alcohol testing.
Essential Skills
- Driving and Maneuvering: The ability to operate a large vehicle safely and efficiently in various road and weather conditions.
- Customer Service: The capacity to be courteous, patient, and helpful to a diverse range of passengers.
- Problem-Solving: The ability to handle unexpected situations, such as traffic delays, mechanical issues, or passenger emergencies, calmly and effectively.
- Time Management: The skill to adhere to a strict schedule while prioritizing passenger safety and comfort.
- Attention to Detail: Meticulousness is needed to perform pre-trip inspections, follow a specific route, and ensure the safety of all passengers.
Key Responsibilities
- Driving and Navigation: Operating a bus safely along a specified route, following traffic laws and staying on schedule.
- Passenger Assistance: Helping passengers, including the elderly or those with disabilities, board and exit the bus and assisting with baggage.
- Fares and Tickets: Collecting fares or checking tickets and providing transfers or change as required.
- Pre-trip Inspections: Performing a routine inspection of the bus before each trip to check for any issues with the gas, oil, tires, or other critical components.
- Handling Emergencies: Responding to and managing passenger emergencies, accidents, or other disruptions while ensuring the safety of everyone on board.
Five Common Interview Questions
- Can you describe your experience with driving a large vehicle?
- This question assesses your practical experience and familiarity with operating a commercial vehicle.
- How do you handle a situation with an unruly or difficult passenger?
- This behavioral question evaluates your patience, professionalism, and customer service skills under pressure.
- What steps do you take to ensure the safety of your passengers?
- This highlights your understanding of safety protocols and your commitment to a secure ride for all passengers.
- Tell me about a time you had to deal with an unexpected issue, such as a mechanical problem or traffic delay.
- This question tests your problem-solving abilities and how you handle stress and unexpected challenges.
- How do you stay on a tight schedule while also prioritizing safety?
- This assesses your ability to balance two key aspects of the job: timeliness and safety.
Questions?
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