School Bus Driver / New Jersey
2026 data New Jersey board official source

New Jersey School Bus Driver License Requirements

What the state board actually requires: fees, renewal cycle, and requirements from official records.

Transports students to and from school safely.

What the New Jersey data shows for School Bus Drivers

To practice as a school bus driver in New Jersey, the state licensing board requires 92 documented education or training hours, a passing score on CDL with School Bus and Passenger Endorsements. A criminal history background check is also part of the application. Applicants must be at least 21 years old. The regulation sits under New Jersey's professional licensing framework, which classifies the training track as "School Bus Driver Training".

Budget $104 to get started, plus $72 at each renewal on a 4-year cycle. New Jersey doesn't require continuing education for this license, so upkeep costs stay confined to the renewal fee itself.

Reciprocity for this profession works like this: Federal CDL recognized nationwide.

Licensing Requirements in New Jersey

Education / Training Hours
School Bus Driver Training
92 hours
Exam Requirement
CDL with School Bus and Passenger Endorsements
Required
Initial License Fee
$104
Renewal Fee
$72
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 New Jersey licensing authorities before making career decisions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What license do I need for School Bus Driver in New Jersey?
In New Jersey, the license path calls for 92 education/training hours, a passing score on CDL with School Bus and Passenger Endorsements, and a $104 initial fee. A criminal background check is required as well.
How do I get certified as a School Bus Driver in New Jersey?
Certification as a school bus driver in New Jersey means clearing the state's checklist: 92 hours of education, and a passing exam score. The New Jersey licensing board can confirm the current details.
Can I transfer my School Bus Driver license to New Jersey from another state?
For school bus drivers, the reciprocity landscape looks like this: Federal CDL recognized nationwide. Many professions are also covered by interstate licensing compacts that facilitate portability between states. Contact the New Jersey licensing board to confirm how it applies to your specific credential.
Does New Jersey require a background check for School Bus Driver licensing?
Background screening is part of the school bus driver licensing process in New Jersey. 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