School Bus Driver / Tennessee
2026 data Tennessee board official source

Tennessee 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 Tennessee data shows for School Bus Drivers

Tennessee sets the entry bar for school bus drivers at 70 training hours and a passing score on CDL with School Bus and Passenger Endorsements. A background check is a standard part of the process, and applicants must be 21 or older. The credential is administered under Tennessee's licensing regime, which classifies the training track as "School Bus Driver Training".

Upfront cost is $69, with renewal running $50 on a 4-year cycle. Continuing education is not a listed requirement for this profession in Tennessee, 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 Tennessee

Education / Training Hours
School Bus Driver Training
70 hours
Exam Requirement
CDL with School Bus and Passenger Endorsements
Required
Initial License Fee
$69
Renewal Fee
$50
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 Tennessee licenses
Data sources: NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice, state licensing boards. Verify current requirements with Tennessee licensing authorities before making career decisions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What license do I need for School Bus Driver in Tennessee? ▼
Tennessee's requirements cover 70 hours of education or training, the CDL with School Bus and Passenger Endorsements exam, and an initial fee of $69. Applicants also go through a criminal background check.
How do I get certified as a School Bus Driver in Tennessee? ▼
To become a licensed school bus driver in Tennessee, you must meet the state's requirements including 70 hours of education. You must also pass the required examination. Contact the Tennessee licensing board to verify current requirements.
Can I transfer my School Bus Driver license to Tennessee from another state? ▼
School Bus Driver licenses generally reciprocate as follows: Federal CDL recognized nationwide. Interstate licensing compacts cover many professions and can further ease a move between states. The Tennessee licensing board can confirm the current rules for your credential.
Does Tennessee require a background check for School Bus Driver licensing? ▼
Tennessee 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.

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.