What is required for a school bus driver, in addition to having a commercial driver's license?

A school bus driver must possess specific endorsements on their commercial driver's license in addition to the license itself. In Illinois, this typically includes both a school bus endorsement and a passenger endorsement.

Having a school bus endorsement indicates that the driver has met the additional testing and training requirements necessary to operate a school bus safely, particularly in regard to the unique responsibilities of transporting children. The passenger endorsement covers similar requirements for carrying passengers safely, which is crucial when operating a vehicle filled with students.

While valid identification, additional driving experience, and emergency response training are certainly important considerations for personal and general driving safety, they do not replace the need for the specific endorsements outlined. Endorsements ensure that the driver is thoroughly prepared for the specific challenges involved in transporting schoolchildren, meeting legal requirements, and adhering to state regulations designed to protect young passengers.