Bus drivers
🤍 Save CareerBus drivers play a vital role in the US economy, with 546K professionals employed nationwide. The median annual salary is $48,370, with projected growth of 1% through 2034 (Slower than average).
💰 Salary Range
📈 Growth Outlook
➡️ Stable — 1% projected growth🤖 AI Automation Risk
AI may assist but is unlikely to replace this role.
🤖AI Impact Deep Dive: Bus drivers
🔬 AI Impact Deep Dive: Bus drivers
AI Collaboration Score
Measures how much AI tools are used as collaborative assistants in this role (0% = no AI involvement, 100% = AI-intensive workflow)
🔮 Future Outlook
While autonomous driving technology is a direct long-term threat to the core task of vehicle operation, the role involves significant physical and interpersonal responsibilities that AI cannot yet replicate. School bus drivers must manage student behavior and safety, while transit and charter drivers assist passengers with disabilities and handle physical luggage, creating a substantial barrier to full automation in the near term.
Analysis based on Microsoft "Working with AI" research (2025), O*NET task data v30.2, and Bureau of Labor Statistics occupational projections. Updated March 2026.
🌅A Day in the Life
🌟Career Outlook & Getting Started
Why It's Promising
With 1% projected growth and a median salary of $48,370, this career offers stable prospects. The large employment base (0.5M jobs) means abundant opportunities across the country.
How to Get Started
Entry typically requires high school diploma or equivalent. Start by exploring relevant AP courses in high school, gaining hands-on experience through internships or volunteering, and connecting with professionals in the field.
Who Is It For
Anyone interested in bus drivers who wants to build a rewarding career in this field.
🎓Majors & Top Schools
❓Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Bus drivers make in 2026?▼
The median salary for a Bus drivers is $48,370 per year. Entry-level positions start around $29,022, while experienced professionals can earn up to $77,392 depending on location, specialization, and industry.
How do I become a Bus drivers?▼
Entry typically requires high school diploma or equivalent. Start by exploring relevant AP courses in high school, gaining hands-on experience through internships or volunteering, and connecting with professionals in the field. The typical education requirement is no degree required.
What degree do you need to be a Bus drivers?▼
Most Bus drivers positions require no degree required. However, some professionals enter the field through alternative paths like bootcamps, certifications, or self-directed learning.
What AP courses should I take to become a Bus drivers?▼
Check PathLeap for personalized AP course recommendations for Bus drivers. The right AP courses depend on your target college major and career specialization.
What does a Bus drivers do on a daily basis?▼
As a bus driver, your day involves a mix of specialized tasks that require both expertise and adaptability. You work with colleagues, clients, or patients depending on the setting, applying your training to solve real-world problems.
Is Bus drivers a good career in 2026?▼
With 1% projected growth and a median salary of $48,370, this career offers stable prospects. The large employment base (0.5M jobs) means abundant opportunities across the country. Job growth is projected at 1%, which is declining. The median salary of $48,370 also positions it competitively in the job market.
Will AI replace Bus driverss?▼
Bus drivers has an AI automation risk score of 40/100 (Low). AI will change how this work is done, but the core skills remain valuable. Professionals who learn to work with AI tools will have a significant advantage.
What kind of person makes a good Bus drivers?▼
Anyone interested in bus drivers who wants to build a rewarding career in this field. Success in this role also depends on continuous learning and adaptability, especially as the field evolves with new technology and industry trends.
Is Bus drivers Right for You?
Take our career quiz to see how Bus drivers matches your personality. Get personalized AP course recommendations and see what similar students are exploring.
Free · No signup required