To become a school bus driver in North Carolina, all individuals must meet the following requirements:
- At least 18 years old
- At least six months driving experience
- Hold a commercial driver license based on state of residence with “S” (school bus), “P” (passenger) endorsement symbols (must be able to acquire)
- Have a School Bus Driver Certificate (must be able to acquire)
To obtain a School Bus Driver's Certificate, an individual must be specially trained and pass an examination by a N.C. Department of Motor Vehicle’s Driver Education Program Specialist that demonstrates the fitness and competency required to operate a school bus.
The requirements to drive a school activity bus are the same according to the N.C. State Board of Education Policy, which also requires both “P” (passenger) and an “S” (school bus) endorsement symbols.
Driving a school or activity bus without a certification is a Class III misdemeanor and is a punishable offense.