School Bus Driver / Virginia
2026 data Virginia board official source

Virginia School Bus Driver License Requirements

Compiled from official source data by PlainCredential

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

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What the Virginia data shows for School Bus Drivers

To practice as a school bus driver in Virginia, the state licensing board requires 72 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 Virginia's professional licensing framework, which classifies the training track as "School Bus Driver Training".

The initial price tag is $73, and renewal costs $52 every 4 years. Virginia doesn't require continuing education for this license, so upkeep costs stay confined to the renewal fee itself.

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

Licensing Requirements in Virginia

Education / Training Hours
School Bus Driver Training
72 hours
Exam Requirement
CDL with School Bus and Passenger Endorsements
Required
Initial License Fee
$73
Renewal Fee
$52
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 Virginia licenses
Data sources: NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice, state licensing boards. Verify current requirements with Virginia licensing authorities before making career decisions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What license do I need for School Bus Driver in Virginia? ▼
Virginia requires 72 education/training hours, passing an exam (CDL with School Bus and Passenger Endorsements), and an initial fee of $73. A criminal background check is also required.
How do I get certified as a School Bus Driver in Virginia? ▼
Certification as a school bus driver in Virginia means clearing the state's checklist: 72 hours of education, and a passing exam score. The Virginia licensing board can confirm the current details.
Can I transfer my School Bus Driver license to Virginia 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 Virginia licensing board can confirm the current rules for your credential.
Does Virginia require a background check for School Bus Driver licensing? ▼
Yes, Virginia requires a criminal background check as part of the school bus driver licensing process. Disqualifying offenses and review criteria are determined by 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.