Top 11 Bus Person Certifications

Certifications are important for a bus person in the job market because they demonstrate to potential employers that the individual has the necessary skills and knowledge to perform their duties. Certifications also give employers assurance that the bus person is up-to-date on industry standards and regulations, as well as providing evidence of commitment to professional development. Additionally, certifications can provide a competitive edge when it comes to hiring decisions, as employers may view them favorably when considering applicants for open positions.

The purpose of this article is to review some of the top certifications for Bus Persons and explain how they can enhance career opportunities and growth.

What are Bus Person Certifications?

Bus person certification is a professional credential that is issued to individuals who have successfully completed training and demonstrated basic knowledge and skills related to the operation of a bus. This certification is typically required for those who work as bus drivers, attendants, or other personnel associated with the transportation industry.

The goal of bus person certification is to ensure that all individuals working in the transportation industry are adequately trained and qualified to perform their job duties safely and efficiently. This includes understanding the rules of the road, recognizing hazardous situations, using proper safety equipment, and providing appropriate customer service. The certification also helps employers identify qualified applicants for positions in their organization.

Having a valid bus person certification can give an individual an advantage when applying for jobs in the transportation industry. It also demonstrates that they are committed to meeting safety standards and following regulations. Furthermore, many states require employees who drive buses to hold this type of certification before they can operate in public areas. By having this credential, individuals can demonstrate their commitment to safety while providing reliable transportation services.

Pro Tip: When preparing for bus person certification, be sure to review all material thoroughly and practice the techniques you will be tested on. This will help ensure that you are prepared and confident when taking the test.

Related: What does a Bus Person do?

Top 11 Bus Person Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Bus Persons today.

1. Certified Professional Bus Person (CPBP)

Certified Professional Bus Person (CPBP) is a certification program designed to recognize bus persons who demonstrate excellence in their field. It is an industry-recognized credential that validates the knowledge, skills, and abilities of bus persons. The CPBP certification is offered by the National Association of Professional Bus Persons (NAPBP).

It typically takes about 4-6 months to complete the CPBP certification program, depending on the individual's level of experience and commitment to learning. The program consists of two parts: a written exam and a practical exam. The written exam covers topics such as customer service, sanitation and safety, food handling, and menu planning. The practical exam tests the individual's ability to perform job duties such as setting tables, delivering food orders, cleaning up after guests, and stocking supplies.

To get certified as a CPBP, individuals must first register for the certification program through NAPBP's website. After registering for the program, applicants will be required to pay a fee that varies depending on their membership status with NAPBP. Once registered for the program, applicants will be provided with study materials and instructions on how to prepare for both exams. Upon successful completion of both exams, applicants will receive their official CPBP certificate from NAPBP.

The cost of getting certified as a Certified Professional Bus Person (CPBP) varies depending on an individual’s membership status with NAPBP; however it typically ranges between $100-$200 USD.

2. Certified Bus Driver (CBD)

Certified Bus Driver (CBD) is a certification program designed to ensure that bus drivers have the knowledge and skills necessary to safely and effectively transport passengers. The program is administered by the National Association for Pupil Transportation (NAPT) and requires applicants to pass a written exam, complete a background check, and attend an in-person training session.

The written exam covers topics such as defensive driving, passenger management, vehicle maintenance, emergency procedures, trip planning, and customer service. It typically takes about two hours to complete.

To get certified, applicants must first register with NAPT and pay a fee of $125. Once registered, they can access the online study material and take the written exam at their convenience. After passing the written exam, applicants must attend an in-person training session which covers topics such as vehicle inspection and operation of wheelchair lifts or ramps. The in-person training typically takes one day to complete.

Upon successful completion of both the written exam and in-person training session, applicants will be awarded their Certified Bus Driver certification from NAPT. This certification is valid for three years before needing to be renewed.

3. Certified School Bus Driver (CSBD)

A Certified School Bus Driver (CSBD) is a professional designation given to school bus drivers who have successfully completed a comprehensive training program. This program includes classroom instruction, driving skills testing and an evaluation of the driver's knowledge and attitude towards safety. The CSBD designation provides assurance that the driver has met or exceeded all qualifications necessary to safely transport students on a school bus.

The length of time it takes to get certified depends on the individual's experience and availability for training. Generally, it can take anywhere from two weeks up to several months depending on the requirements of the state or district in which you are applying for certification.

In order to become certified, applicants must first pass a background check, drug test, physical exam, and obtain a valid commercial driver's license (CDL). They must also complete an approved school bus driver training course that covers topics such as vehicle operation, student management, emergency procedures, special needs transportation, and traffic laws.

The cost of obtaining certification varies by state and district but typically ranges from $50-$100 in fees associated with the application process. Additional costs may include tuition for the training course itself as well as any travel expenses associated with attending classes or taking tests.

4. Certified Public Transportation Operator (CPTO)

Certified Public Transportation Operator (CPTO) is a certification program offered by the American Public Transportation Association (APTA). The CPTO certification is designed to recognize individuals who have achieved a high level of knowledge and proficiency in the public transportation industry. The CPTO certification is voluntary and requires successful completion of an APTA-approved training program.

The CPTO certification process typically takes about six months to complete, depending on the individual's experience and training. To become certified, individuals must first complete an approved training program, which includes classroom instruction and field experience. Once the training is completed, applicants must take and pass a written exam administered by APTA. After passing the exam, applicants will receive their CPTO certificate from APTA.

To get started with the CPTO certification process, applicants should contact their local public transit agency or APTA for more information on approved training programs. Applicants must also pay a fee for the written exam; this fee varies depending on the state where the applicant resides.

In addition to completing an approved training program and passing a written exam, applicants may also be required to participate in continuing education courses or other professional development activities in order to maintain their CPTO certification status.

Overall, obtaining a Certified Public Transportation Operator (CPTO) certification can cost anywhere from $200-$500 depending on location and fees associated with taking and passing the written exam.

5. National Safety Council Defensive Driving Course (NSCDDC)

The National Safety Council Defensive Driving Course (NSCDDC) is a comprehensive driver safety program designed to reduce the risk of motor vehicle crashes. The course includes classroom instruction, interactive activities, and videos that focus on topics such as safe driving practices, defensive driving techniques, and the consequences of unsafe driving behaviors.

The NSCDDC is typically offered in a four-hour format and can be completed in one day or over multiple days. It is available through both online and in-person courses. The cost of the course varies depending on the provider and location; however, most providers offer discounts for groups or organizations.

To get the NSCDDC, you must find an approved provider in your area and register for the course. Approved providers are listed on the National Safety Council website. Once you have registered for the course, you will receive information about how to complete it.

Overall, the National Safety Council Defensive Driving Course is an excellent way to improve your driving skills and reduce your risk of being involved in a motor vehicle crash.

6. American Public Transportation Association Bus Operator Certification Program (APTA-BOCP)

The American Public Transportation Association Bus Operator Certification Program (APTA-BOCP) is a certification program designed to ensure that bus operators have the knowledge and skills necessary to safely operate buses. The program is administered by the APTA, which is the leading organization for public transportation in the United States.

The program consists of two parts: a written exam and a practical test. The written exam covers topics such as traffic laws, customer service, vehicle maintenance, and emergency procedures. The practical test requires candidates to demonstrate their ability to safely drive a bus on an actual route.

The APTA-BOCP typically takes about four weeks to complete. Candidates must attend an orientation session prior to taking the written exam and then complete both parts of the program within three weeks after that.

To get certified through the APTA-BOCP, candidates must first register with the APTA and pay a registration fee of $50. They must also provide proof of identity and proof of completion of an approved driver training course or equivalent experience. Once registered, they can take the written exam at any authorized testing center or online through an approved provider. After passing the written exam, they will be eligible to take the practical test at an authorized testing center.

The cost of getting certified through the APTA-BOCP varies depending on where you take your tests and whether you need additional training or materials. In general, however, it costs around $300-$400 for both parts of the program.

7. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance Certification Program (NHTSA-CVSA-CP)

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance (CVSA) Certification Program is a voluntary program designed to promote safety and compliance among commercial motor vehicle operators. It provides a comprehensive set of standards for the safe operation of commercial vehicles, including pre-trip inspections, driver qualifications, hours of service, cargo securement, and other areas. The program also includes a certification process that requires participating operators to demonstrate their commitment to safety by passing an annual inspection and meeting all applicable safety requirements.

To become certified under the NHTSA-CVSA-CP program, a motor carrier must first apply for certification through the CVSA website. Once approved, the carrier must then complete an onsite inspection from a CVSA-certified inspector. This inspection typically takes about two hours and covers all applicable safety regulations. If successful, the carrier will receive a certificate of compliance from CVSA that is valid for one year.

The cost of becoming certified under the NHTSA-CVSA-CP program varies depending on the size of the fleet being inspected and other factors. Generally speaking, it costs between $200-$400 per vehicle to become certified under this program.

8. International Association of Public Transportation Bus Operator Certification Program (IAPT-BOCP)

The International Association of Public Transportation Bus Operator Certification Program (IAPT-BOCP) is a program that provides certification for bus operators who meet certain standards and qualifications. It is designed to ensure that all public transportation bus operators are qualified, knowledgeable and safe when operating buses.

The IAPT-BOCP certification process consists of two parts: an online training course and a practical assessment. The online training course covers topics such as safety, customer service, vehicle maintenance, route navigation, and more. The practical assessment is conducted by an IAPT-certified assessor who evaluates the operator's performance in a variety of scenarios.

The entire process typically takes about three months to complete. To get certified, applicants must first register with the IAPT-BOCP website and pay the registration fee of $150 USD. After registering, applicants will be given access to the online training course which they must complete within six weeks. Upon completion of the online course, applicants will be eligible to take the practical assessment which must also be completed within six weeks.

Once both parts of the certification process have been completed successfully, applicants will receive their IAPT-BOCP certification which is valid for three years from the date it was issued.

9. International Association of Transit Regulators Bus Person Certification Program (IATR-BPCP)

The International Association of Transit Regulators Bus Person Certification Program (IATR-BPCP) is a certification program designed to provide transit workers with the knowledge and skills necessary to safely and effectively operate public transportation vehicles. The program is designed to help ensure that transit workers are properly trained and qualified to handle the responsibilities associated with operating buses, trains, light rail systems, and other public transportation vehicles.

The IATR-BPCP consists of two parts: an online course and an in-person assessment. The online course covers topics such as safety regulations, vehicle operations, customer service, route planning, and more. It typically takes about 8 hours to complete the course. Upon completion of the online course, participants must then pass an in-person assessment administered by a certified IATR instructor. This assessment includes a written exam as well as hands-on evaluation of bus operation skills.

To get certified through the IATR-BPCP program, applicants must first register for the program through their local transit agency or through the IATR website. Once registered, applicants will receive access to the online course materials and instructions on how to register for the in-person assessment.

The cost of certification depends on which transit agency you are registering with but typically ranges from $50-$200 USD depending on location and other factors.

10. National Safety Council First Aid and CPR Course

The National Safety Council (NSC) First Aid and CPR Course is a comprehensive training program designed to teach individuals how to respond in an emergency situation. The course covers basic first aid, CPR, and AED (automated external defibrillator) use. It also provides instruction on how to recognize signs of a heart attack or stroke, as well as choking and drowning emergencies.

The NSC First Aid and CPR Course typically takes 4-6 hours to complete depending on the level of certification desired. Participants can choose from either a Basic or Advanced certification level. The Basic level covers basic first aid and CPR techniques while the Advanced level includes additional topics such as bloodborne pathogens, oxygen administration, automated external defibrillator (AED) use, and medical emergencies.

To get certified in the NSC First Aid and CPR Course, individuals must attend an approved training class with an instructor who has been certified by the National Safety Council. These classes are offered at many local fire departments, hospitals, community centers, and other organizations throughout the country.

The cost of the NSC First Aid and CPR Course varies depending on where it is taken and which certifications are desired. Generally speaking, Basic certification costs around $50-$75 while Advanced certification can cost up to $100 or more.

11. Professional Drivers Institute Safe Driving Course

The Professional Drivers Institute (PDI) Safe Driving Course is an online program designed to teach drivers how to drive safely and responsibly. The course covers topics such as defensive driving, safe driving practices, driver awareness, and road safety. It also provides a comprehensive overview of the laws and regulations governing driving in the United States.

The PDI Safe Driving Course takes approximately 8 hours to complete and can be accessed from any computer or mobile device with an internet connection. The course is divided into eight modules which cover topics such as driver attitude, vehicle maintenance, speed limits, traffic signals, and more. At the end of each module there is a quiz that must be passed in order to progress to the next module. Upon completion of the course, participants will receive a certificate of completion which can be used for insurance discounts or other benefits.

The cost of the PDI Safe Driving Course varies depending on where you take it. Most courses can be found online for around $50-$100 USD but some may require additional fees for materials or other services. Additionally, many states offer discounted rates for those who take the course through approved providers or organizations.

Overall, taking the PDI Safe Driving Course is an excellent way to become a better driver and stay safe on the roads. It’s important to remember that even after completing the course, it’s still important to practice safe driving habits at all times!

Do You Really Need a Bus Person Certificate?

The answer to this question is no, you do not need a bus person certificate in order to legally work as a bus person. That being said, having a bus person certificate would be beneficial for anyone looking to enter the field of busing. A bus person certificate can provide applicants with knowledge and skills that employers are looking for in potential employees, such as customer service and safety protocols. Additionally, obtaining a certificate may demonstrate an applicant’s commitment to their job and dedication to providing quality service.

In some cases, employers may require applicants to have a bus person certificate in order to be considered for the position. This requirement is typically listed on job postings or discussed during the interview process. Having a valid bus person certificate is also important if you plan on applying for jobs in other states, as some states may require certification in order to legally work as a bus person.

Overall, obtaining a bus person certificate is not required by law but it can be beneficial when applying for jobs or transferring between states. The knowledge and skills gained from obtaining a certification can help applicants stand out among other candidates and show potential employers that they are serious about the position they are applying for.

Related: Bus Person Resume Examples

FAQs About Bus Person Certifications

1. What is bus person certification?

Answer: Bus person certification is a type of training and certification program that prepares individuals to perform the duties of a bus attendant, such as helping passengers board and disembark, providing assistance to elderly or disabled passengers, and ensuring the safety of all passengers.

2. How do I get certified as a bus person?

Answer: To become certified as a bus person, you must complete an approved training program, either online or in-person. This program will cover topics such as customer service, safety procedures, and emergency response protocols. After completing the training course, you will be required to pass an exam in order to receive your certification.

3. What are the requirements for bus person certification?

Answer: In order to become certified as a bus person, you must be at least 18 years old and have a valid driver’s license or state identification card. You may also need to meet additional state or local requirements depending on where you live.

4. Is there an age limit for bus persons?

Answer: Most states require that all bus persons be at least 18 years old in order to obtain their certification. However, some states may have lower age limits for certain types of buses or routes.

5. How long does it take to become certified as a bus person?

Answer: The length of time it takes to become certified as a bus person depends on several factors including the type of training program chosen, how quickly you complete the coursework, and whether or not you pass the final exam. Generally speaking however, most people can expect to receive their certification within two weeks after completing their training program.