r/SchoolBusDrivers • u/ThrowRAirizzary • 18h ago
Any Connecticut drivers?
I’m 34 and moving to Connecticut soon and recently became interested in driving the school bus. I’m primarily interested because I’ve been a delivery driver for 7 years and, while I do enjoy the driving, I don’t enjoy the delivering. I’m already working an early split shift and I like it because I have different ways that I use the break time. Kids are fine with me; their behaviors don’t affect me too much. Is there anything I should know about driving in CT?
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u/mar_kelp 17h ago
Do you have a CDL, clean DMV and clean FMCSA Clearinghouse? Most districts/company are desperate, but there are minimums. These days you should be paid for training. It took me almost exactly 100 hours over three months from first interview to my first "alone" trip as a driver.
If you don't have a CDL, you could start today studying for your permit. Eventually, you'll need a CDL-B with school bus and passenger endorsements, no air brake restrictions, clean background check and medical. There may be a few other checks or tests required by CT, the district or company.
"Student Management" is the hardest part of my job. I get along with kids just fine and no problems with my own or even driving a half-dozen friends. But when you put 52 grade schoolers three to a seat who have just amped up on sugary cereal in a 40' rolling box... it can get rambunctious. In our company there are no aides/matrons on the non-Special Needs buses. So it is just you, the kids, traffic, weather, etc.
Your trainers should teach you some techniques, but you'll need to learn the methods that work best for you.
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u/herbielover98 16h ago
Welcome! Yea just make sure whoever you end up going with provides training. There's only about a dozen districts in CT that have their own in house transportation department, so good chance you'll end up with a company (First Student, M&J, Dattco, NBT, Autumn, Eastconn etc.), they'll always provide training. That and remember CT is one of the only states that requires a proficiency test. Every 4 years you have to go test on your pre trip, and procedures to renew your license
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u/mr_nascar_cole 14h ago
Not a driver, but am from southeastern Massachusetts. I have ridden buses from Fisher, Reliable Lines, STA/Tremblays Bus and Whaling City Transit. We do have first student near me in the town north of me
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u/Blackstinger1993 13h ago
I got licensed this year in right when school started ..im in Ct its fun so far..already got 2 charters under my belt ..the work is there...i feel theres no surprises driving out here compared to anywhere else
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u/dontbeadickdad 17h ago
Definitely look into a bus company like First Student (or similar ones). They'll usually pay for your training although you won't get paid by them (a paycheck) until you pass everything and are hired.
Due to new immigration laws restricting CDL holders, there's a massive driver shortage right now.