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Bus Driving

Learn how to become a bus driver for Cushing Public Schools and support students through safe, reliable transportation.

Bus Driving

Welcome aboard. Bus drivers play an essential role in Cushing Public Schools by safely transporting students to and from school and school activities while helping create a positive experience at the beginning and end of each day.

Why Drive for CPS?
Serve Students
Bus drivers are often the first and last CPS employees students see each day and play an important role in student safety.
Support the Community
Drivers help the district and community by transporting students on established routes and to extracurricular activities.
Paid Training Path
Training and licensing fees are paid for eligible applicants as they work toward required credentials.
Clear Entry Process
The district provides a defined process for obtaining a CDL and school bus certification, with help available along the way.
Getting Started
Step 1: Contact Transportation
Contact Tully Folden to begin the process and ask questions about eligibility, training, or licensing.
Tully Folden
Transportation Director
Step 2: Obtain Your CDL
  1. Review sections 1-5 and 10-13 of the Oklahoma CDL manual.
  2. Take the written examination at the public safety examiner’s office located at 701 E 12th Ave, Stillwater, OK 74074. Walk-ins are accepted, or you may check in online with Service Oklahoma.
  3. Pass the Class B, P, S, and air brake tests.
  4. Complete the 19-hour course for the Oklahoma School Bus Driver Certificate and complete 5 hours of behind-the-wheel training.
  5. Take the CDL drive test to obtain a Class B CDL.
Step 3: Meet Driver Requirements
  • Pass the bus driver physical.
  • Maintain an acceptable three-year driving record with no alcohol- or drug-related offenses.
  • Submit to required pre-employment and random drug testing under DOT regulations.
  • Hold required endorsements and certifications before driving students.
Position Details
Essential Job Functions
  • Safely transport school-age students to and from school.
  • Safely transport students to and from school-sponsored events as required.
  • Follow established disciplinary procedures for students not following bus rules.
  • Conduct and document daily safety inspections of the assigned vehicle.
  • Keep route sheets and student information up to date.
  • Attend meetings, programs, and in-service training as assigned.
  • Maintain current required licenses and certificates.
  • Notify appropriate individuals of route delays and assist with other routes when needed.
Qualifications & Requirements
  • High school diploma or equivalent required.
  • Ability to obtain a Class B CDL with P and S endorsements.
  • Ability to obtain an Oklahoma State School Bus certificate.
  • Ability to drive a school bus equipped with air brakes.
  • Probationary drivers may be hired with an appropriate CDL permit and are expected to obtain a CDL within 45 days of hire.
  • Must pass DOT physical and drug test.
Working Conditions
  • Typical working conditions are consistent with driving a school bus.
  • Exposure to loud noises, fumes, and automotive fluids is possible.
  • Work normally requires sitting and driving for up to two and one half hours at a time, twice per day.
  • Drivers are required to open the hood, fuel the bus, and sweep the aisle daily.
Oklahoma Requirements
School bus drivers in Oklahoma must hold the appropriate Commercial Driver License for the vehicle being driven, including Passenger (P), School Bus (S), and air brake qualifications when applicable. Drivers must also be registered in the Oklahoma School Bus Driving online system before transporting students.
Required Before Driving
  • Hold a current CDL with P & S endorsements (A CDL permit is not allowed).
  • Complete required drug and alcohol testing.
  • Provide a current health certificate and medical waiver if needed.
  • Complete a background check.
  • Provide a Motor Vehicle Report (MVR).
Additional Notes
The Board of Education and Superintendent may approve alternatives to some listed qualifications where appropriate.
Information for CPS Staff Seeking Bus Driving Certification
CPS is also recruiting current teachers and staff who may be interested in obtaining a CDL and School Bus Certification to help support student transportation needs.
New Bus Drivers
  • CPS Transportation will coordinate scheduling of training for interested staff.
  • Complete an approved school bus driving training.
  • Classwork may be completed in person either at your district, through an Oklahoma Technology Center, or online through OAPT Online.
  • Complete a minimum of 5 hours of behind-the-wheel training.
  • New CDL drivers must complete entry-level driver training.
Expired OSDE Certification
  • If certification has been expired for more than one year, an approved refresher course is required.
  • Refresher topics include railroad crossings, mirror placement, pick-up and drop-off procedures, sound driving practices, and accident procedures.
  • The refresher course can be completed by a certified school bus driver trainer either at your district, through an Oklahoma Technology Center, or online through OAPT Online.
Interested in Driving for CPS?
Reach out to Transportation to start the process, ask questions, and learn more about current bus driver needs in the district.
Reports To: Transportation Director