A transit or intercity bus driver operates buses that carry passengers on scheduled routes within cities or between cities. It is hands-on, in demand, and you can start with a high school diploma. Here is what the work involves, what it takes, and how to get in.
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You operate buses safely while following schedules and routes. You interact directly with passengers, answering questions and helping them board and exit. You inspect your vehicle before and during shifts to spot mechanical issues or safety concerns. You communicate with supervisors about delays, passenger incidents, or vehicle problems. You make quick decisions when traffic changes or emergencies arise. You monitor traffic, weather, and passenger behavior to keep everyone safe. The work requires focus, reliability, and the ability to stay calm under pressure.
Core work activities
Career video courtesy of CareerOneStop.
Bus Drivers, Transit and Intercity earn a median of $59,050 a year, based on 2025 data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Pay rises with experience, specialty, and location.
The outlook is steady. Employment is projected to grow 4 percent from 2024 to 2034, about as fast as average for all occupations, with about 20,900 openings a year.
Top skills
Knowledge areas
You need a high school diploma or equivalent. Most employers require a commercial driver's license, which involves passing written and practical tests. You will need to pass a background check and medical examination. Many transit agencies offer on-the-job training where experienced drivers teach you routes, safety procedures, and customer service standards. Some positions may require additional certifications related to passenger safety or hazardous materials. Training typically takes several weeks to a few months before you operate routes independently.
Most people enter this career through a commercial driver's license and employer training programs. If you are deciding between different transit agencies or want to map out your first steps, Pathly can map the bus driver, transit and intercity path that fits you and work through it with your counselor to build a clear plan.
Many bus driver, transit and intercitys must be licensed, and professional certifications can strengthen your resume.
Common certifications
Licensing is handled at the state level and the requirements vary, so check the licensing board in your state. Pathly shows your state's specific steps inside your roadmap.
You like working with your hands and solving practical problems. You are comfortable interacting with people and staying focused on safety and rules.
Reading about a career is the easy part. Turning it into a plan is where most students get stuck. Pathly takes you from curious to a clear next step, and gives your counselor the insight to champion you along the way.
Start with a quick quiz and assessments that surface your personality, your EQ, and what really motivates you, so your next steps are built around who you actually are.
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Last updated July 1, 2026.
Data sources. Career details from the O*NET 30.3 Database by the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA), used under CC BY 4.0. O*NET® is a trademark of USDOL/ETA. Salary and outlook figures from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (May 2025 wages; 2024–2034 projections), delivered via the CareerOneStop API. Certification, licensing, wage, and outlook data from CareerOneStop, sponsored by USDOL/ETA and the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED).