8 Week Course (160 Hours)

This program is designed to introduce the students to the procedures & skills found in the
school bus & commercial bus driving industries while preparing each individual to obtain
a commercial bus driver’s license with or without a school bus (SPAB) certification.

Students will develop the skills necessary to operate a commercial vehicle safely. Each
course consists of classroom, lab, range & on the road experience to ensure the best
possible training. The program covers topics in basic operations, safe operating practices,
advanced operating practices, vehicle maintenance, & non-vehicle activities. Within each section, students will cover topics on vehicle control systems, vehicle pre-trip inspections, basic control, railroad crossings, shifting, backing, visual search & communication skills, speed & space management, documentation regulations, accident procedures, trip planning, public relations, & extreme conditions.

This program exceeds the minimum hourly training requirements set by the State of California and the California Highway Patrol (CHP).

Program Objective:

UThis program is designed to exceed California’s training requirements so that students will gain a fuller understanding of the basic knowledge and practical skills necessary to become a proficient entry-level school bus/commercial bus driver. This program meets the needs of students with no prior knowledge or experience in school bus driving. It also provides training consisting of intensive hands-on lab and driving instruction behind the wheel of a school bus.

Students will be instructed in the areas of vehicle familiarization including components, transmission control, shifting procedures as well as bus operation & movement. Passenger safety is a core part of the program, this includes passenger loading/unloading, passenger transportation safety as well as working with special needs passengers. Students will also learn general and specialized defensive driving techniques, emergency procedures, special equipment operation, activity trips & special certificate requirements. Mountain driving & grade level training are also accomplished. Upon graduation, students will receive a California class B commercial bus driver’s license with all endorsements, which include: Passenger, Air brakes, & California Highway Patrol school bus (SPAB) certification.

Career Opportunities:

Upon completion from this course, the student will be able to obtain work in entry-level bus driver positions with school districts, city motor coach companies, tour bus companies, casino transportation, farm labor transportation & limousine transportation service.