Alabama requires a state-level school bus driver license. The licensing authority is State Dept of Education / DMV. The median salary is $35,435 per year.
Last updated 2026-05-08
Alabama requires a school bus driver to hold a state license. Transport students safely to and from school and school-related activities. Licensing is administered by the State Dept of Education / DMV.
| Minimum Age | 18 years old |
| Education | CDL with School Bus (S) endorsement + state-specific training |
| Experience Details | CDL with School Bus (S) endorsement + state-specific training |
Alabama requires passing the Alabama CDL School Bus Endorsement Exam + Background Check with a minimum score of 70%. The application fee is $50.
| Exam Name | Alabama CDL School Bus Endorsement Exam + Background Check |
| Passing Score | 70% |
| Code Edition | CDL School Bus Endorsement Exam + Background Check |
| Application Fee | $50 |
Getting licensed as a school bus driver in Alabama takes 24 months on the typical path. Here are the steps.
The total cost includes an exam application fee of $50 and renewal fees of $50 every 2 years. Continuing education of 8 hours is required per renewal cycle.
| Fee | Amount |
|---|---|
| Exam Application | $50 |
| License Renewal | $50 every 2 years |
| Continuing Education | 8 hours |
School Bus Drivers in Alabama earn a median salary of $35,435, which is less than the national average. Data from BLS OEWS May 2024.
| Mean (average) | — / year |
| Entry level (10th pct) | — |
| Top earners (90th pct) | — |
| Total employed | — in Alabama |
| National average | $40,730 |
Yes — Alabama requires a state-level school bus driver license. Transport students safely to and from school and school-related activities.
The required exam is the Alabama CDL School Bus Endorsement Exam + Background Check. You need a score of 70% to pass. The exam fee is $50.
The median annual salary for school bus drivers in Alabama is $35,435. The national median is $40,730.
Alabama requires 8 hours of continuing education for license renewal every 2 years.
The fastest path takes approximately 6 months. The typical path takes 24 months including experience requirements.