Bus Driver Resources

• Bus Stops Update Forms
• Bus Seating Chart
• Alabama School Bus Driver Handbook(ALSDE website)
• ALSDE Physical Information v 2018-11-02
• Act 2012-372
• Instructional Activities Permission Form
• Athletic Activities Permission Form

How To Become A Bus Driver

• Must be 21 years of age or older
• Must obtain a Class B Commercial Driver’s License with a Passenger and School Bus Endorsement
• Must have a clean driving record with no DUI
• Cannot be Insulin dependent

How To Apply

• Complete a classified application online at ALSDE online application and
• Apply for the Bus Driver Preliminary Interview.
• After the Preliminary Interview qualified candidates will be invited to attend the training class.
• You must have your CDL before attending the training class.

To Obtain A Class B Commercial Driver’s License

• Pass 4 tests given at the license office (Study manuals are available at your local license office)
  1. General Knowledge
  2. Passenger
  3. Air Brakes
  4. School Bus

(COST FOR THE CDL TEST IS $25)

After Passing The CDLTest:

• You will be given a Learner’s Permit
• Attend a 4 hour training class from Shelby County Schools 
• Attend a 12 hour State Department of Education New Bus Driver Certification Class - 3 days
  
• Score at least 80% on written test given at end of 12 hour instruction class
• Pass a three part performance test
  1. Pre-Trip Inspection
  2. Basic Control Skills Tests (backing)
  3. Driving Skills Test
     (Practice days will be available for two weeks prior to the New Bus Driver Certification Class)
  (COST FOR CDL IS $56.25)

Other Required Documentation

• Obtain a background check at https://www.aps.gemalto.com/index.htm   or by phone at (866)989-9316 (COST FOR BACKGROUND CHECK WILL BE $49.65)
• Required Documentation
  1. A Class B CDL with Passenger and School Bus Endorsement
  2.  Copy of high school diploma, college diploma, or GED
  3. Copy of Social Security Card
  4. Alabama School Bus Driver Physical Examination Report (link to physical form) (COST FOR PHYSICAL WILL BE $50 - $100)

How To Keep An Alabama School Bus Driver Certification

In order to maintain their school bus driver certification, school bus drivers are required to participate in a 4-hour recertification class. These classes are scheduled in all school systems and are taught between January 1 and October 31 annually. 

Drivers who fail to attend the required re-certification class must return to a new driver class and be performance tested. 

Who To Contact

Anyone wishing to drive a school bus in Shelby County should contact the Transportation Department at 205-682-7130.