School Bus Driver / Louisiana
2026 data Louisiana board official source

Louisiana School Bus Driver License Requirements

Official regulator records behind the requirements, fees, and renewal cycle for this license.

Transports students to and from school safely.

What the Louisiana data shows for School Bus Drivers

Louisiana's path to school bus driver licensure runs through 98 hours of approved instruction and a passing score on CDL with School Bus and Passenger Endorsements, plus a criminal history screening before applicants younger than 21 can be licensed. Louisiana folds the credential into its broader occupational licensing statute, which classifies the training track as "School Bus Driver Training".

The initial price tag is $115, and renewal costs $78 every 4 years. Continuing education is not a listed requirement for this profession in Louisiana, so the annualized maintenance burden is lower than in states that mandate ongoing hours.

On reciprocity, school bus drivers should know: Federal CDL recognized nationwide.

Licensing Requirements in Louisiana

Education / Training Hours
School Bus Driver Training
98 hours
Exam Requirement
CDL with School Bus and Passenger Endorsements
Required
Initial License Fee
$115
Renewal Fee
$78
Renewal Cycle
Every 4 years
Continuing Education
Not required
Criminal History Check
Required
Minimum Age
21 years
Data sources: NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice, state licensing boards. Verify current requirements with Louisiana licensing authorities before making career decisions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What license do I need for School Bus Driver in Louisiana?
Louisiana requires 98 education/training hours, passing an exam (CDL with School Bus and Passenger Endorsements), and an initial fee of $115. A criminal background check is also required.
How do I get certified as a School Bus Driver in Louisiana?
Louisiana licenses school bus drivers who complete its requirements (98 education hours) and a passing exam. Verify the latest details with the Louisiana licensing board.
Can I transfer my School Bus Driver license to Louisiana from another state?
Reciprocity for school bus drivers nationally works like this: Federal CDL recognized nationwide. Beyond that baseline, interstate compacts exist for many professions and may smooth a transfer into Louisiana. Verify the specifics with the Louisiana licensing board.
Does Louisiana require a background check for School Bus Driver licensing?
Background screening is part of the school bus driver licensing process in Louisiana. The state licensing board determines which offenses disqualify an applicant and how appeals are handled.

Source: NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice License to Work (3rd Ed.), state licensing board websites NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice License to Work (3rd Ed.), state licensing board websites