School Bus Driver / Minnesota
2026 data Minnesota board official source

Minnesota School Bus Driver License Requirements

Compiled from official source data by PlainCredential

State-board requirements, fees, and renewal cycle drawn from official regulator records.

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What the Minnesota data shows for School Bus Drivers

Becoming a licensed school bus driver in Minnesota means clearing a defined set of hurdles: 68 training hours, a passing score on CDL with School Bus and Passenger Endorsements, plus a background history check once the applicant turns 21. Minnesota regulators place this credential inside their licensing framework, which classifies the training track as "School Bus Driver Training".

Budget $66 to get started, plus $48 at each renewal on a 4-year cycle. There's no continuing-education mandate tied to this profession in Minnesota, which keeps the long-run cost of staying licensed lighter than in CE-heavy states.

For school bus drivers, the reciprocity picture is: Federal CDL recognized nationwide.

Licensing Requirements in Minnesota

Education / Training Hours
School Bus Driver Training
68 hours
Exam Requirement
CDL with School Bus and Passenger Endorsements
Required
Initial License Fee
$66
Renewal Fee
$48
Renewal Cycle
Every 4 years
Continuing Education
Not required
Criminal History Check
Required
Minimum Age
21 years

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Compare all states for School Bus Driver All Minnesota licenses
Data sources: NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice, state licensing boards. Verify current requirements with Minnesota licensing authorities before making career decisions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What license do I need for School Bus Driver in Minnesota? ▼
In Minnesota, the license path calls for 68 education/training hours, a passing score on CDL with School Bus and Passenger Endorsements, and a $66 initial fee. A criminal background check is required as well.
How do I get certified as a School Bus Driver in Minnesota? ▼
To become a licensed school bus driver in Minnesota, you must meet the state's requirements including 68 hours of education. You must also pass the required examination. Contact the Minnesota licensing board to verify current requirements.
Can I transfer my School Bus Driver license to Minnesota from another state? ▼
Here's how reciprocity typically plays out for school bus drivers: Federal CDL recognized nationwide. Many occupations are additionally covered by interstate licensing compacts that ease cross-state moves. Check with the Minnesota licensing board for how this applies to you.
Does Minnesota require a background check for School Bus Driver licensing? ▼
A criminal background check is mandatory for school bus driver licensing in Minnesota. The state licensing board sets the disqualifying-offense criteria and review process.

Related Guides

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

Read our methodology - how this data is sourced, computed, and verified.