Bus Driver Trainee (Substitute)

Job Description

The Bus Driver Trainee position consists of a total of approximately 80 hours of classroom and behind the wheel training. When not in training, the trainee may also work as a van driver.


The training program typically takes 3-4 months to complete. After completion of the program and obtaining the required Commerical Driver's License with Passenger and School Bus endorsements, trainees will be eligible apply for a regular School Bus Driver position with the District.


To qualify to be a trainee, candidates will need to complete a DOT physical and drug screen, provide a California Driver's Record Report, and be cleared through the FMCSA DOT Clearinghouse. Valid Adult CPR and First Aid Certifications are also required.

The hourly rate for this position, including training, is $22.36/hour. The Bus Driver Trainee is a substitute position.


If hired as a school bus driver, the hourly rate will increase to $24.08/hour.

For more information about this program, please click here.

The next training course will start on September 1, 2026.

Job Summary

Attends classroom and behind-the-wheel training to become qualified as a School Bus Driver. In addition, under the supervision of the Transportation Operations Supervisor, drives vehicles to transport students safely and efficiently to an assigned location on a designated route; provides safe and secure transportation for students who may have physical, medical, educational and emotional needs; load, unload and secure special needs students; perform regular daily safety inspections and regular cleaning of vehicles.

Comments and Other Information

SB 848 COMPLIANCE - EFFECTIVE JANUARY 1, 2026

Effective January 1, 2026, and in accordance with California Education Code Section 44051(a)(1), any applicant for a non-teaching position must disclose a complete list of every school district, county office of education, charter school, state special school and diagnostic center operated by the department of education, and private school that the applicant has previously been an employee of, including full-time, part-time, or substitute roles. Failure to provide this information may be considered an act of dishonesty and could affect hiring decisions.

San Dieguito Union High School District prohibits discrimination, harassment, intimidation and bullying in educational programs, activities, or employment on the basis of actual or perceived ancestry, age, color, disability, gender, gender identity, gender expression, nationality, race or ethnicity, immigration status, religious beliefs or customs, sexual orientation, parental, pregnancy, family or marital status, military status or association with a person or a group with one or more of these actual or perceived characteristics. SDUHSD requires that school personnel take immediate steps to intervene when safe to do so when he or she witnesses an act of discrimination, harassment, intimidation, or bullying. Any concerns regarding discrimination may be directed to Susan Gray, Director, Classified Personnel, 710 Encinitas Blvd., Encinitas, CA, 92024; View phone number on click.appcast.io.