tour bus driver salary

Bus Driver Salary in the United States

Bus driver salary.

How much does a Bus Driver make in the United States? The average Bus Driver salary in the United States is $45,173 as of April 24, 2024, but the range typically falls between $39,234 and $51,133 . Salary ranges can vary widely depending on many important factors, including education , certifications, additional skills, the number of years you have spent in your profession. With more online, real-time compensation data than any other website, Salary.com helps you determine your exact pay target. 

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School Bus Driver

Ecco Ride - Vidalia, LA

Transdev - North Las Vegas, NV

CoachUSA - Fairview, PA

Transdev Inc. - Chico, CA

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What skills does a Bus Driver need?

Each competency has five to ten behavioral assertions that can be observed, each with a corresponding performance level (from one to five) that is required for a particular job.

Customer Service: Customer service is the provision of service to customers before, during and after a purchase. The perception of success of such interactions is dependent on employees "who can adjust themselves to the personality of the guest". Customer service concerns the priority an organization assigns to customer service relative to components such as product innovation and pricing. In this sense, an organization that values good customer service may spend more money in training employees than the average organization or may proactively interview customers for feedback. From the point of view of an overall sales process engineering effort, customer service plays an important role in an organization's ability to generate income and revenue. From that perspective, customer service should be included as part of an overall approach to systematic improvement. One good customer service experience can change the entire perception a customer holds towards the organization.

Life Insurance: Life Insurance can be defined as a contract between an insurance policy holder and an insurance company, where the insurer promises to pay a sum of money in exchange for a premium, upon the death of an insured person or after a set period

IDEA: The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act is a piece of American legislation that ensures students with a disability are provided with a Free Appropriate Public Education that is tailored to their individual needs.

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Job Description for Bus Driver

Bus Driver drives a bus or a motor coach on regular routes, chartered routes, or private tours. Assists passengers with boarding and luggage. Being a Bus Driver collects fares and tickets and makes correct change. Follows standard safety procedures and reports accidents to dispatch and proper authorities. Additionally, Bus Driver may require a high school diploma or equivalent. Typically requires Commercial Driver's License (CDL), Class B with passenger endorsement. Typically reports to a supervisor. Bus Driver 's years of experience requirement may be unspecified. Certification and/or licensing in the position's specialty is the main requirement. (Copyright 2024 Salary.com)... View full job description

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Salary.com job board provides millions of Bus Driver information for you to search for. Click on search button below to see Bus Driver job openings or enter a new job title here.

• Bus Driver Transdev - North Las Vegas, NV Description. Immediate hiring opportunities for Bus Drivers in the greater Las Vegas area. Why Work for Us. $21.00 starting salary. Great benefits includin... - 3 Days Ago
• Bus Driver CoachUSA - Fairview, PA BUS DRIVERS. Full-time and Part-time. Location: Erie, PA. Compensation: $20 Per Hour. We are actively hiring bus drivers to join our growing team. Coach US... - 3 Days Ago
• Bus Driver Transdev Inc. - Chico, CA Transdev North America is the largest private sector operator of multiple modes of transit in North America, providing bus, rail, paratransit, shuttle. sed... - 3 Days Ago
• Bus Driver CoachUSA - Jamestown, NY BUS DRIVERS. Full-time and Part-time. Location: Jamestown, NY. Compensation: $20 Per Hour. We are actively hiring bus drivers to join our growing team. Loo... - 3 Days Ago

Career Path for Bus Driver

A career path is a sequence of jobs that leads to your short- and long-term career goals. Some follow a linear career path within one field, while others change fields periodically to achieve career or personal goals.

For Bus Driver, the first career path typically progresses to Assisted Living Resident Driver/Escort.

The second career path typically starts with a Limousine Chauffeur I position, and then progresses to Limousine Chauffeur II.

The third career path typically progresses to Vehicle Delivery Driver.

Additionally, the fourth career path typically progresses to School Bus Driver.

INNODATA INC

Company description, what does a bus driver do, are you an hr manager or compensation specialist.

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Bus Driver Pay Difference by Location

Bus Driver salary varies from city to city. Compared with national average salary of Bus Driver, the highest Bus Driver salary is in San Francisco, CA, where the Bus Driver salary is 25.0% above. The lowest Bus Driver salary is in Miami, FL, where the Bus Driver salary is 3.5% lower than national average salary.

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Level of education for bus driver.

Jobs with different levels of education may pay very differently. Check the Bus Driver salary of your education level.

Bus Driver Salary by State

Geographic variations impact Bus Driver salary levels, due to various factors, such as cost of living, industries, market demand and company budgets. Click below to see pay differences between states.

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Recently searched related titles: Paratransit Driver , Transit Operator

Recently searched related titles: Driver Business Leader , Route Specialist , Coach Operator

Jobs with a similar salary range to Bus Driver : Taxi Cab Driver , Paratransit Bus Driver , Public Transit Bus Driver , Line Driver

Salary estimation for Bus Driver at companies like : Absa Bank South Africa , School Committee , Guernsey County Court

Jobs with a similar salary range to Bus Driver : Conductor , Trolley Driver , Tour Bus Driver

What is a tour bus driver and how to become one

A tour bus driver is a professional responsible for transporting passengers to and from designated locations. They operate charter buses with the ability to carry 45 to 50 passengers and follow established safety rules and regulations to ensure a safe and clean work environment. They also maintain records concerning vehicle maintenance, miles driven, and other related matters, and respond to customer inquiries regarding tour routes, boarding, drop off policies, and instructions. They work closely with tour guides and clients to ensure that passengers have a comfortable and enjoyable experience. They also perform post trips inspection and clean the bus for the next trip.

How long does it takes to become a tour bus driver?

It typically takes 1-3 months to become a tour bus driver:

• Month 1-3: Accumulating the necessary work experience and completing on-site and on-the-job training, such as learning about safety procedures, local routes, and customer service skills.
• Salary $37,754
• Growth Rate 5%
• Jobs Number 42,170
• Most Common Skill CDL
• Most Common Degree High School Diploma
• Best State New Jersey

Tour Bus Driver career paths

Tour bus drivers can pursue various careers. They can become bus drivers, technicians, production supervisors, or plant managers. They can also become operation supervisors, transportation supervisors, or fleet managers. In addition, they can become emergency medical technicians, foremen, owners/operators, or coordinators. They may also become logistics coordinators, mail clerks, or driver managers.

Key steps to become a tour bus driver

Explore tour bus driver education requirements, most common tour bus driver degrees.

High School Diploma

Bachelor's

Start to develop specific tour bus driver skills

Tour bus drivers communicate with school officials and supervisors regarding bus schedules and student disciplinary problems. They perform post-trip inspections and clean the bus, prepare specialized logistics for travel routes, and respond to customer inquiries. They also maintain records of vehicle maintenance, miles driven, and other related matters.

Complete relevant tour bus driver training and internships

Obtain the necessary licensing, research tour bus driver duties and responsibilities.

They check the bus tires, lights, oil, and complete other basic maintenance. They also maintain records concerning vehicle maintenance, miles driven, and other related matters; incident and accident reports. They create a positive interpretative experience for visitors to Yellowstone National Park. They work closely with tour guides and clients to ensure that passengers have a comfortable and enjoyable experience. They transport customers to and from designated destinations using GPS equipment for adequate directions.

• Conduct vehicle inspections on bus pre and post-schedule trips for bus maintenance and passenger safety.
• Certify in CPR and sensitivity training.
• Require to maintain CDL drivers licensing on a yearly basis.
• Conduct deliveries of medical equipment throughout Florida, collect payments, and ensure proper cleanliness of medical equipment

Prepare your tour bus driver resume

When your background is strong enough, you can start writing your tour bus driver resume.

You can use Zippia's AI resume builder to make the resume writing process easier while also making sure that you include key information that hiring managers expect to see on a tour bus driver resume. You'll find resume tips and examples of skills, responsibilities, and summaries, all provided by Zippi, your career sidekick.

Choose From 10+ Customizable Tour Bus Driver Resume templates

Apply for tour bus driver jobs

Now it's time to start searching for a tour bus driver job. Consider the tips below for a successful job search:

• Browse job boards for relevant postings
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Are you a Tour Bus Driver?

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Average tour bus driver salary

The average Tour Bus Driver salary in the United States is $37,754 per year or $18 per hour. Tour bus driver salaries range between $28,000 and $49,000 per year.

What Am I Worth?

How do tour bus drivers rate their job?

Tour bus driver reviews.

Not enough overtime , the hours are not enough, and since their are meaningful, being able to sign up for overtime helps . Then there are the class C drivers who take advantage of bus drivers, by cutting us off, or just not being aware that a 40ft/ 60ft bus can not stop on a dime And while class C drivers take unnecessary traffic risk. A bus driver must stay alert and expect the unexpected every minute under the wheel of a bus

The road rage drivers: people lose their empathy when driving. They become aggressive and angry by the slightest event on the road. Hence, taking the fun out of driving. However, driving is still relaxing and fun.

The ability to gain the trust of a customer to know satisfied and happy with the assignments set all personal belongings and artifacts have not been touched or moved and deliver to him one time it is a sure note for return business which Fields customer service and repetitive returns safety orientated and knowledgeable have a special detail and driving skills safety assured first and foremost

Updated April 25, 2024

Editorial Staff

The Zippia Research Team has spent countless hours reviewing resumes, job postings, and government data to determine what goes into getting a job in each phase of life. Professional writers and data scientists comprise the Zippia Research Team.

Tour Bus Driver Related Careers

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• Charter Driver
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• Trackless Trolley Driver
• Tram Driver
• Transit Bus Driver

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What Does a Tour Bus Driver Do?

Find out what a Tour Bus Driver does, how to get this job, salary information, and what it takes to succeed as a Tour Bus Driver.

The Tour Bus Driver plays an essential role in the travel and tourism industry, offering a unique blend of safety, navigation, and hospitality to passengers eager to explore new destinations. This position requires a comprehensive understanding of local attractions, routes, and traffic regulations, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable journey for all on board. Beyond the operation of the vehicle, these professionals are ambassadors of the travel experience, often providing insightful commentary about the sights and sounds encountered along the way. Their expertise in managing schedules and maintaining a comfortable environment makes them an integral part of creating memorable trips for tourists and travelers alike.

Tour Bus Driver Job Duties

• Safely operate the tour bus along predetermined routes, adhering to all traffic laws and regulations.
• Provide informative and engaging commentary about landmarks, historical sites, and local attractions.
• Perform pre-trip and post-trip inspections of the bus to ensure it is in proper working condition.
• Manage the boarding and deboarding of passengers, ensuring a smooth flow and accounting for all individuals.
• Handle ticket sales, reservations, and confirmations for the tour, including processing payments and issuing receipts.
• Coordinate with tour operators or event planners on scheduling, route adjustments, and specific group needs.
• Maintain cleanliness and orderliness inside the bus throughout the tour to ensure a pleasant environment for passengers.
• Respond to emergencies or unexpected situations, such as medical incidents or vehicle malfunctions, in a calm and efficient manner.

Tour Bus Driver Salary & Outlook

Tour bus driver salaries are influenced by factors such as experience, the type of tours conducted (historical, adventure, etc.), seasonal demand, employer size (independent vs. large tour companies), and customer service skills. Additionally, drivers specializing in niche tours or possessing unique knowledge may command higher wages.

• Median Annual Salary: $36,763 ($17.67/hour)
• Top 10% Annual Salary: $61,000 ($29.33/hour)

The employment of tour bus drivers is expected to grow much faster than average over the next decade.

Increased global tourism, rising interest in local and international travel experiences, and the expansion of tour companies are driving the demand for Tour Bus Drivers. Additionally, the growing popularity of eco-friendly and cultural tours requires skilled drivers familiar with diverse locales, further boosting employment opportunities in this sector.

Tour Bus Driver Job Requirements

Education: A Tour Bus Driver typically holds a High School Diploma, with a focus on subjects that enhance communication and geographical knowledge. Courses in English, geography, and customer service are beneficial, providing foundational skills for interacting with passengers and navigating routes. While specific majors are not required, electives in tourism or hospitality can offer a competitive edge, emphasizing the importance of a well-rounded educational background in ensuring both safety and an enjoyable experience for passengers.

Experience: Tour Bus Drivers often enter the field without prior experience, learning through on-the-job training programs. These programs equip them with necessary skills, including safe driving practices, customer service, and route planning. Employers may also provide specific training related to the tour content, enabling drivers to share interesting facts and stories with passengers. Continuous learning and improvement in areas such as communication and emergency response are essential for success in this role.

Certifications & Licenses: Tour Bus Drivers typically require a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL), often with a Passenger (P) endorsement. Some regions may also mandate a specific Tour Bus Operator license or certification, and a clean driving record is generally essential. Additional certifications, such as First Aid or CPR, can be beneficial but are not universally required.

Tour Bus Driver Skills

Passenger Safety Procedures: Tour bus drivers are tasked with briefing each passenger on emergency exits, safety equipment, and protocols before departure. They must also conduct regular inspections of safety equipment, including first aid kits and fire extinguishers, and stay informed on the latest safety regulations and training to ensure a secure environment for everyone on board.

Route Planning: Developing efficient and scenic routes that meet time constraints while enhancing the passenger experience requires extensive knowledge of local geography, traffic patterns, and points of interest. Such planning ensures tours are memorable, smooth, and punctual, reflecting positively on the driver’s professionalism and the tour company’s reputation.

Defensive Driving: The ability to safely navigate a large vehicle through various environments demands a heightened awareness of surroundings and the skill to anticipate potential hazards. Tour bus drivers must adjust their driving in response to the actions of other drivers and pedestrians to maintain safety and comfort for passengers.

Customer Service: From the moment passengers board the bus, making them feel welcomed and valued is crucial for an enjoyable tour experience. Addressing concerns or questions attentively enhances overall satisfaction and increases the likelihood of passengers recommending the service.

ADA Compliance: Familiarity with the accommodations and modifications necessary to ensure all passengers, regardless of physical ability, can access and enjoy the tour is essential. Knowledge of lift systems, seating arrangements, and communication aids is required to provide an inclusive experience.

Emergency Response: In unexpected emergencies, tour bus drivers must quickly assess situations and implement safety protocols to ensure passenger well-being. A calm demeanor and clear communication, coordinating with emergency services when necessary, are imperative.

Tour Bus Driver Work Environment

Tour bus drivers operate in a dynamic environment, primarily within the confines of their vehicle, navigating through diverse terrains and cityscapes. Their workspace is the driver’s seat, equipped with standard vehicular controls and often enhanced with GPS and communication devices to stay connected with tour operators and passengers.

The nature of their work dictates irregular hours, with weekends and holidays being peak times for tours. Dress codes can vary, often leaning towards company-branded attire for easy identification by clients. The social aspect of the job is significant, requiring drivers to interact frequently with passengers, providing not just a service but an experience.

Health and safety are paramount, with drivers adhering to strict regulations to ensure everyone’s well-being. Noise levels can fluctuate, especially in bustling city tours or when engaging with passengers. The pace of work is generally steady, punctuated by periods of waiting or downtime between tours.

Travel is inherent to the role, with some positions requiring overnight stays or long-distance travel, impacting work-life balance. Despite the challenges, the role offers a unique opportunity to meet diverse groups of people and explore new locations, making it appealing to those with a love for travel and customer service.

Advancement Prospects

Tour bus drivers can advance their careers by transitioning into roles with higher responsibility and pay, such as becoming a tour operations manager or starting their own tour company. Gaining experience in diverse routes and specializing in niche tours (e.g., historical, adventure) enhances their value and opens up opportunities for leading more exclusive and higher-paying tours.

Building a strong reputation for safety, knowledge, and customer service is crucial. Drivers can leverage this reputation to negotiate better terms or move into luxury tour segments. Additionally, mastering multiple languages can significantly boost a driver’s appeal to international tourists, potentially leading to opportunities with global tour operators.

Progressing in this career often involves a mix of practical experience, customer service excellence, and strategic career moves, such as identifying and specializing in high-demand tour niches.

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