New Mexico Bus Driving Opportunities

What are the requirements to be a school bus driver in New Mexico?

Becoming a school bus driver in New Mexico requires meeting specific qualifications, certifications, and training standards to ensure the safety of students. Here’s a step-by-step guide on what you’ll need to become a certified school bus driver in the state:

1. Meet Basic Eligibility Requirements

Before applying, ensure you meet the minimum requirements:

  • Age: You must be at least 18 years old for an intrastate (within-state) CDL or 21 years old for interstate driving.
  • License: Hold a valid New Mexico driver’s license. You’ll eventually need a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) with a School Bus (S) endorsement and possibly a Passenger (P) endorsement.
  • Clean Driving Record: A relatively clean driving record is essential. Traffic violations, especially serious offenses like DUIs or reckless driving, can disqualify you.
  • Background Check: School bus drivers must pass a thorough criminal background check and may be subject to fingerprinting.

2. Obtain a CDL Permit (Commercial Learner’s Permit – CLP)

To begin the process, you’ll need to apply for a Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP), which is the first step in obtaining a full CDL.

  • Pass the General Knowledge CDL Test: This written test covers road rules, vehicle operation, and other essential topics.
  • Medical Certificate: You must complete a DOT physical exam and receive a valid Medical Examiner’s Certificate (DOT medical card). This ensures you are physically fit to operate a school bus.

3. Complete School Bus Endorsement Requirements

To drive a school bus, you’ll need to get the School Bus (S) endorsement on your CDL, which involves additional testing and training.

  • Passenger (P) Endorsement: If your school bus holds more than 15 passengers, you’ll also need to pass the Passenger endorsement written and driving tests.
  • School Bus Written Test: This test covers topics specific to operating a school bus, including loading/unloading procedures, emergency evacuations, and special safety regulations for school buses.

4. Complete Training

New Mexico requires specific training for school bus drivers to ensure safe operation and student safety:

  • Behind-the-Wheel Training: After receiving your CLP, you’ll need to complete a certain number of hours driving a school bus under supervision.
  • Pre-Service Training: This training covers student management, emergency procedures, and state laws. It’s provided by the New Mexico Public Education Department (PED) or an approved school district.

5. Pass the Skills Test

After training and preparing with your CLP, you must pass the CDL skills test, which includes:

  1. Pre-trip Inspection: Demonstrating your ability to inspect a bus and ensure it’s safe to operate.
  2. Basic Control Skills: Maneuvering the bus in various settings (e.g., backing up, parking).
  3. On-Road Test: Driving the bus in a variety of real-world conditions to show safe driving skills.

6. Pass a Drug and Alcohol Test

All CDL drivers, including school bus drivers, must pass a pre-employment drug test. Additionally, school bus drivers are subject to random drug and alcohol testing during their employment.

7. Complete CPR and First Aid Training

Many school districts in New Mexico require school bus drivers to complete CPR and First Aid training. This ensures that drivers can respond to medical emergencies involving students.

8. Maintain Your CDL and Endorsements

Once you’ve received your CDL with the required endorsements, you must keep your license and medical certification current. The state of New Mexico will require you to renew your Medical Examiner’s Certificate every two years, and you may also be subject to ongoing background checks and performance reviews.

Additional Resources and Information:

  • For more detailed requirements and to begin the application process, visit the New Mexico Motor Vehicle Division (MVD) website: https://www.mvd.newmexico.gov.
  • If you need more information on school bus driver training programs, check with your local school district or the New Mexico Public Education Department (PED).

What is the bus driver salary in New Mexico?

In New Mexico, the salary for school and public bus drivers can vary based on factors such as location, employer (public school system vs. private company), experience, and the type of buses driven (e.g., school bus, city bus, or long-distance coaches).

Average Bus Driver Salaries in New Mexico

  1. School Bus Drivers:
    • The average salary for school bus drivers in New Mexico is approximately $32,000 to $38,000 per year.
    • Hourly pay typically ranges from $15 to $18 per hour, depending on the school district.
    • Benefits like health insurance and retirement plans may be offered, depending on the district.
  2. City/Transit Bus Drivers:
    • Drivers for public transit systems, like Albuquerque’s ABQ RIDE, tend to earn higher wages compared to school bus drivers. The average salary for city bus drivers is around $40,000 to $48,000 per year.
    • Hourly pay can range from $19 to $23 per hour, with opportunities for overtime, which can increase total earnings.
  3. Charter or Long-Distance Bus Drivers:
    • Charter and coach bus drivers, who might drive for companies like Greyhound or private charter services, earn higher than school bus drivers but less than long-haul truckers. Their salaries are usually in the range of $45,000 to $55,000 per year, depending on the routes and company.
    • These jobs may offer per-trip pay or include bonuses for long routes, safety records, or customer satisfaction.

Factors Affecting Pay

  1. Experience: More experienced drivers with clean driving records and additional certifications (like a Passenger Endorsement) may have access to higher-paying roles.
  2. Location: Salaries may differ depending on whether you’re working in a rural district or in more urban settings like Albuquerque or Las Cruces.
  3. Employer: Public schools tend to have set wage scales, while private companies or charter bus services may offer more flexibility in pay based on driver performance and demand.

Useful Resources:

Where are the best bus driver jobs in New Mexico?

In New Mexico, there are several strong opportunities for bus drivers depending on the type of driving you’re interested in—whether it’s for school buses, city transit, or charter companies. Below is a breakdown of some of the top places to apply for bus driving jobs, each with unique advantages in terms of pay, job stability, and benefits.

1. School Bus Driver Jobs

School bus driving positions tend to offer stable schedules (aligned with school calendars) and benefits like paid holidays and health insurance through public school systems. In New Mexico, you can look into various school districts that regularly hire drivers.

  • Albuquerque Public Schools: One of the largest school districts in the state, Albuquerque often has a demand for school bus drivers. They offer competitive pay, solid benefits, and the opportunity to work in a larger urban setting.
  • Santa Fe Public Schools: This district has fewer schools compared to Albuquerque but is a good option for those seeking a smaller city with steady job opportunities.
  • Las Cruces Public Schools: Another strong employer for school bus drivers in the state’s southern region, offering good benefits and flexible schedules.

2. City/Transit Bus Driver Jobs

Transit bus driving positions usually come with competitive pay, overtime options, and benefits. These roles often require interaction with passengers and adherence to city routes.

  • ABQ RIDE (Albuquerque Transit Department): This is one of the best options if you’re looking to work as a city bus driver in a large metropolitan area. ABQ RIDE offers good wages (around $19–$23 per hour), overtime opportunities, and solid benefits, including healthcare and retirement options.
  • Santa Fe Trails (Santa Fe’s Public Transit System): Santa Fe also has a smaller public transit system. It’s ideal for drivers seeking a quieter, more scenic work environment compared to Albuquerque.

3. Charter and Long-Distance Bus Driver Jobs

If you prefer longer routes, including interstate travel, consider applying with private charter companies or long-distance coach services.

  • Greyhound Lines: Greyhound regularly hires for their long-distance bus services, which include routes through New Mexico. Pay tends to be higher than local or school bus driving jobs, with potential bonuses for long trips.
  • Tour and Charter Companies: New Mexico has a number of smaller, private charter companies that offer services to tourist destinations like Santa Fe, Taos, and White Sands. These jobs often have more flexible hours and routes.

4. Private Bus Companies

Private companies often offer tailored services for events, corporate travel, and more. Many are willing to pay premium rates for experienced drivers.

  • First Student: A leading provider of school and charter bus services in the U.S., First Student has locations in New Mexico and offers steady pay, paid CDL training, and benefits.

How to Get Started

  1. Check Job Boards: Use sites like Indeed (www.indeed.com) or Glassdoor (www.glassdoor.com) to search for current listings by filtering for bus driving jobs in New Mexico.
  2. Meet the Requirements: Ensure you have or can obtain a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) with the proper endorsements for school buses or passenger transport.
  3. Apply for Positions: Focus on districts or companies that align with your career goals (e.g., stable schedules for school buses or higher pay for transit and long-distance drivers).

Which schools offer bus driver training in New Mexico?

If you’re looking for bus driver training in New Mexico, you’ll primarily want to focus on schools and training programs that provide Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) training, specifically with the Passenger (P) and School Bus (S) endorsements. These endorsements are required to legally operate passenger buses, including school buses.

Here are some of the best options for bus driver training in New Mexico:

1. New Mexico Junior College

New Mexico Junior College offers CDL programs that prepare students for the written and skills tests required for a CDL with the Passenger and School Bus endorsements. This program is a solid option if you’re looking for affordable and local training.

2. San Juan College

San Juan College has a CDL training course where you can get the knowledge and skills necessary to pass the CDL exams. This program is open to students who want to drive both commercial trucks and buses, making it a versatile choice.

3. Central New Mexico Community College (CNM)

CNM offers CDL training that covers all the necessary tests, including those needed for bus driving endorsements. They have flexible schedules, making it easier for students who are balancing other responsibilities.

  • Location: Albuquerque, NM
  • Program: Commercial Driver’s License Training
  • Contact: CNM CDL Training

4. Sage Truck Driving School

Sage is a well-known truck driving school that also prepares students for bus driver roles. They have locations across the U.S., including a center in New Mexico. Sage specializes in hands-on training with a high job placement rate.

5. First Student

First Student is a major provider of school bus services in New Mexico and across the U.S. They offer on-the-job training for bus drivers, including preparation for the CDL with School Bus and Passenger endorsements. This option can be a great fit if you’re looking for a direct pathway to employment.

  • Location: Various across New Mexico
  • Program: Paid CDL Training for Bus Drivers
  • Contact: First Student Jobs

6. Southwestern Indian Polytechnic Institute (SIPI)

SIPI offers a CDL training program focused on providing transportation skills to Native American students, including training for bus driver roles. This program is beneficial if you’re looking for a community-focused training environment.

  • Location: Albuquerque, NM
  • Program: CDL Training Program
  • Contact: SIPI CDL Program

7. New Mexico State University – Doña Ana Community College

NMSU Doña Ana offers a CDL program with training for bus driving, focusing on passing both the written and road tests needed to secure the Passenger and School Bus endorsements.

Key Considerations for Bus Driver Training:

  • CDL License with Endorsements: Make sure any program you choose includes preparation for the Passenger (P) and School Bus (S) endorsements, as they are required to drive buses legally in New Mexico.
  • Hands-on Experience: Look for programs that offer hands-on driving practice in addition to classroom learning. The skills test for a CDL requires strong practical knowledge.
  • Job Placement: Some schools, like First Student and Sage, offer job placement assistance, which can be a huge advantage in securing work quickly after your training.

Costs:

Costs can vary depending on the school and program, but CDL training in New Mexico typically ranges from $2,500 to $6,500. Some employers, such as First Student, may offer paid training where you can earn while learning, reducing the financial burden.