How to Become a School Bus Driver for Simpson County School District Step by Step Guide. For more information, contact 601-847-8000 or jtraylor@simpson.k12.ms.us.

Interested in Driving for SCSD? New Guide Outlines How to Become a School Bus Driver

Simpson County School District

April 16, 2026

Simple Step-by-Step Guide

STEP 1: Show Interest & Check Qualifications

Contact your school district’s Human Resources (HR) or Transportation Department.

You must:

  • Be at least 21 years old

  • Have a good driving record

  • Pass a background check and drug test

  • Be physically able to drive a bus (vision, hearing, mobility)

STEP 2: Complete Pre-Employment Requirements

The district will guide you through:

  • Background check

  • Drug screening (and random testing after hire)

  • Motor Vehicle Record (MVR) check (your driving history)

  • Possible physical exam

STEP 3: Get CDL Manual to study for test

You must pass written tests on:

  • General driving rules

  • Air brakes

  • Transporting passengers (P)

  • School bus safety (S)

  • Class B license

After passing the test you will receive a Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP)

STEP 4: Wait Period

  • You must hold your permit for at least 14 days before taking the driving test.

  • Login to https://msbdp.mdek12.org/ and register

STEP 5: Complete Required Training

Training is provided through your school district:

  • Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) – required federal training with Classroom knowledge and Behind-the-Wheel Practice Driving (Score 80% or higher)

  • Mississippi Department of Education (MDE) Bus Driver Class (about 8 hours)

STEP 6: Pass the Physical Ability Test

You must show you can:

  • Get on and off the bus safely

  • Operate doors and controls

  • Move quickly in an emergency

STEP 7: Pass the Driving Test

You will complete:

  1. Bus inspection

  2. Control skills

  3. Road test

STEP 8: Get Your License

You will receive a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL)

Includes:

  • Passenger endorsement

  • School bus endorsement

STEP 9: Get Certified & Start Driving

You will receive Mississippi Department of Education (MDE) Bus Driver Certification

ONGOING REQUIREMENTS

- Renew certification every 2 years (8 hours training)

- Participate in random drug testing

- Maintain a good driving record (MVR)

QUICK SUMMARY

1. Apply

2. Pass checks

3. Get permit

4. Train

5. Pass test

6. Start driving

Contact:

Transportation Secretary, Jennifer Traylor

601-847-8000 or jtraylor@simpson.k12.ms.us