Career & application guide

Bus Drivers, Transit and Intercity

Get to know the work, the skills that matter, and how to prepare your next application.

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What do bus drivers, transit and intercity do?

Drive bus or motor coach, including regular route operations, charters, and private carriage. May assist passengers with baggage. May collect fares or tickets.

This describes a U.S. occupation, not a live vacancy. Individual employers may use different titles and requirements.

Job titles to recognize in your search

O*NET reports these titles for this occupation. Compare the responsibilities in each posting before treating titles as equivalent.

  • Bus Driver
  • Bus Operator
  • Charter Bus Driver
  • Coach Operator
  • Motor Coach Driver
  • Motor Coach Operator
  • Transit Bus Driver
  • Transit Coach Operator

Core tasks to compare with a job posting

  • Drive vehicles over specified routes or to specified destinations according to time schedules, complying with traffic regulations to ensure that passengers have a smooth and safe ride.
  • Park vehicles at loading areas so that passengers can board.
  • Inspect vehicles and check gas, oil, and water levels prior to departure.
  • Announce stops to passengers.
  • Assist passengers, such as elderly or individuals with disabilities, on and off bus, ensure they are seated properly, help carry baggage, and answer questions about bus schedules or routes.
  • Collect tickets or cash fares from passengers.
  • Handle passenger emergencies or disruptions.
  • Report delays or accidents.
  • Advise passengers to be seated and orderly while on vehicles.
  • Regulate heating, lighting, and ventilating systems for passenger comfort.

Prepare an application for this occupation

  1. Check the employer’s requirements, location, schedule and any licenses against your situation.
  2. Choose two or three tasks above that match the posting and your actual experience.
  3. Build a resume evidence worksheet using the skills and software relevant to that employer.
  4. Practice explaining your contribution, decisions and results before an interview.

Ready to plan your search?

Start with bus drivers, transit and intercity as your target. You can change your role in the quiz and tell us your location and work preferences.

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