Commercial Driver License Manual

Before becoming a school bus driver for the district, drivers must meet strict requirements. They include, but are not limited to:

• At least 18 years old.
• Possess a valid NC CDL (Commercial Driver's License) with P (Passenger) and S (School Bus) Endorsements and a clean driving record.
• Pass a pre-employment criminal background check.
• Pass a pre-employment drug test.
• If you are a current school teacher and/or coach employee, please fill out the Bus Class Registration Form and give it to your Athletic Director.  Please note at the top of the form what class you plan to attend.
  • Bus Class Registration Form
• If you have questions, please contact Michael "Parrish" Stegall
• The BOE Policy Manual outlines hiring, recruitment and dismissal policies.

School Bus Driver Training Checklist

For those drivers that are new to North Carolina, or that reside in North Carolina, but do not have a CDL, training classes are mandatory prior to getting behind the wheel. All candidates are pre-screened before inviting them to the training classes. Below is a brief summary of the process.

• You must complete the application process and be hired as a School Bus Driver Trainee.
• Apply to Union County Public Schools via AppliTrack
• Pass a pre-employment drug test
• Pass a pre-employment background check
• Be hired as a School Bus Driver Trainee
• Attend three-day training class 
• Successfully pass written tests for their Commercial Driver's License
• Obtain a Class B Learner's Permit and hold for 14 days
• Obtain a DOT Medical Card
• Successfully pass three days of on-the-road training with DMV Driver Trainer
• Upon completion of all steps within 90 days of hire date, Trainee will be moved to Bus Driver status

UCPS is now hiring Bus Driver trainees. Qualified applicants will join our team immediately upon completing the new hire process and will practice many of the skills needed to be a School Bus Driver while completing all aspects of required training, including CDL licensure requirements.  Providing compensation while completing these activities will assist the trainee in covering the cost of the required CDL permit and license. Once trainees satisfactorily complete all requirements for becoming a School Bus Driver, rates of pay are adjusted to reflect assigned duties.

Discover the benefits of working as a UCPS Bus Driver Trainee. Bus Driver Trainees are paid bi-monthly and are eligible for our monthly perfect attendance bonus. All employees are hired on a six-month probationary period. If interested, please apply.  If you have any questions, please feel free to contact us at 704-296-3015.

• CDL Licensing Process
• Bus Class Registration Form