Bus Drivers, Transit and Intercity
Drive bus or motor coach, including regular route operations, charters, and private carriage. May assist passengers with baggage. May collect fares or tickets.
SOC: 53-3052.00
Common Job Titles
Bus DriverBus OperatorMotor Coach OperatorTransit Bus Driver
What You'll Need to Succeed
AI-generatedKey competencies for this occupation at a glance
- Hands-onCoordinate multi-sensory monitoring of vehicle instruments, mirrors, and road conditions to ensure safe navigation through traffic and hazard avoidance.Proficient
- MindsetIntegrate customer service excellence with operational efficiency balancing passenger satisfaction, schedule adherence, and safety priorities.Proficient
- Hands-onOperate buses and motor coaches on scheduled routes and charter services following traffic regulations and maintaining on-time performance under varying road and weather conditions.Developing
- Hands-onPerform pre-trip and post-trip vehicle inspections using inspection checklists to ensure mechanical safety and regulatory compliance.Developing
- MindsetEngage with diverse passengers including elderly, disabled, and international travelers providing courteous assistance with boarding, baggage, and route information.Developing
- KnowledgeApply time management strategies to maintain schedule adherence while accommodating passenger needs and responding to traffic delays.Developing
- KnowledgeAssess traffic conditions, passenger behavior, and equipment status to make real-time decisions ensuring passenger safety and service continuity.Developing
- Hands-onManipulate accessibility equipment including wheelchair lifts, kneeling systems, and restraint devices assisting passengers with disabilities in compliance with ADA requirements.Developing
- MindsetRespond to passenger concerns and conflict situations using active listening and de-escalation techniques to maintain a safe and comfortable environment.Developing
- KnowledgeApply knowledge of public safety regulations, traffic laws, and company policies when operating vehicles in urban and intercity transit environments.Developing
- KnowledgeExplain route information, fare structures, and transfer procedures to passengers with varying levels of familiarity with the transit system.Developing
- KnowledgeDocument daily trip logs, incident reports, and fare collections following company protocols and regulatory record-keeping requirements.Developing
Wage Data According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics
Annual wage data for Bus Drivers, Transit and Intercity (2024)
Estimated Total Employment (U.S.)
148,980
Wage Distribution by Percentile
| Metric | U.S. |
|---|---|
| 10% of workers earn the following or less | $38,250 |
| 10% of workers earn the following or more | $82,640 |
| Workers on average earn | $58,390 |
+ indicates wage is at or above the BLS reporting cap ($239,200/year)
Skills & Requirements
Key competencies for this occupation, ranked by importance
- Transportation4.5/5
- Customer and Personal Service4.3/5
- Public Safety and Security4.0/5
- English Language3.4/5
- Law and Government3.1/5
Tools & Technology
Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation
In-Demand Technology
Frequently requested by employers in job postings
Microsoft Windows
Technology Skills
AOL MapQuestMicrosoft MapPointWeb browser software
Tools & Equipment
Bus kneeling systemsCell phonesDigital surveillance camera systemsElectronic destination signsEmergency first-aid kitsLube gunsMinibusesPassenger buses