Frequently Asked Questions | FAQ's

Q:  What is the starting pay for a full-time bus driver? 

A:  The starting pay is $22.64/hour and includes a full benefits package. The pay range is from $22.64 /hour - $44.53/hour. 

Q: What is the earn while you learn pay rate?

A: The trainee pay rate is $20.00/hour. 

Q:  What type of license is required to be a bus driver?

A:  A Commercial Driver's License (CDL) with a Class B (or A) license that includes a P (Passenger) and S (School Bus) endorsement is required. 

Q: What should I do if I have a CDL without the P & S endorsements?

A: You may participate in our CDL Learners Prep class and/or study on your own time to pass the test to obtain your CDL learner's license.

Q: What do you recommend I study to obtain a CDL Learner's Permit with P & S endorsements?

A: There are resources available on the MVA Website, such as the MDOT Commercial Driver's License Manual.  

Q: If I do not possess the required endorsements to be a bus driver, can I still be considered for another position in transportation?

A: Yes, you may be considered for a substitute bus attendant position. 

Q: Is there a special program that allows current employees to work another assignment as a bus driver, bus driver trainee, or bus attendant?

A: Yes, we are pleased to announce a new program that allows selected employees the opportunity to work their current job and earn extra pay in an assignment in transportation. Complete the interest form here. 

Q: What is new about the hiring process?

A: We now use Frontline, a new streamlined applicant tracking system. It is user friendly, and provides real time status updates.

Q: If I am a former PGCPS employee, do I have to reapply?

A: Yes, you need to reapply. Please ensure that you submit your updated documents. All former employees must pass a secondary return to service eligibility screening. 

Q: What's the quickest way to get my driving record?

A:  During the application process, you can authorize our team to pull your Maryland driving record at no cost. Candidates with driving records in other states should request a complete driving record for that state. For example, a 10-year driving record in DC and a 7-year driving record in Virginia. 

Q: What type of background check is involved?

A: All applicants being considered for employment with PGCPS must undergo a fingerprint background check, and a clearance must be received prior to the first day of employment.

Q: Am I eligible to drive a bus, although I had a DUI 20 years ago?

A: No, you will not be able to drive a bus with any such charge listed on your driving record.

Q:  What should I do if I'm not able to upload the required documents in the application portal?

A:  While uploading your documents directly into Frontline, the application portal, will help move your process forward, you may also email documents to tam.transportation@pgcps.org. Please be sure to use the same email address that's linked to your Frontline profile for all communications.

Q: How can I get an update about my application status?

A: You may check your status for updates in Frontline, the online applicant tracking system.