School Bus Driver / Massachusetts
2026 data Massachusetts board official source

Massachusetts School Bus Driver License Requirements

Requirements, fees, and renewal timing for this license, sourced from state board records.

Transports students to and from school safely.

What the Massachusetts data shows for School Bus Drivers

Becoming a licensed school bus driver in Massachusetts means clearing a defined set of hurdles: 91 training hours, a passing score on CDL with School Bus and Passenger Endorsements, plus a background history check once the applicant turns 21. Massachusetts regulators place this credential inside their licensing framework, which classifies the training track as "School Bus Driver Training".

The initial price tag is $103, and renewal costs $71 every 4 years. Continuing education is not a listed requirement for this profession in Massachusetts, 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 Massachusetts

Education / Training Hours
School Bus Driver Training
91 hours
Exam Requirement
CDL with School Bus and Passenger Endorsements
Required
Initial License Fee
$103
Renewal Fee
$71
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 Massachusetts licensing authorities before making career decisions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What license do I need for School Bus Driver in Massachusetts?
Massachusetts requires 91 education/training hours, passing an exam (CDL with School Bus and Passenger Endorsements), and an initial fee of $103. A criminal background check is also required.
How do I get certified as a School Bus Driver in Massachusetts?
Certification as a school bus driver in Massachusetts means clearing the state's checklist: 91 hours of education, and a passing exam score. The Massachusetts licensing board can confirm the current details.
Can I transfer my School Bus Driver license to Massachusetts 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 Massachusetts. Verify the specifics with the Massachusetts licensing board.
Does Massachusetts require a background check for School Bus Driver licensing?
Massachusetts does require a background check before issuing a school bus driver license. What counts as disqualifying, and how it's reviewed, is up to the state licensing board.

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