12 Bus Driver Skills: Definition and Examples

By ResumeCat Editorial Team
Published September 1, 2022

A bus driver must have excellent driving skills, know how to operate the bus, and be able to communicate with passengers. They must also be able to keep the bus clean and organized, and handle money and tickets.

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Time management

Time management is a skill that all bus drivers need to have. They need to be able to plan their route so that they can pick up and drop off passengers in a timely manner.

Customer service

Customer service is the ability to provide excellent customer service to passengers. This includes being able to answer questions, help with directions, and be polite and courteous. Bus drivers need this skill in order to ensure that passengers have a positive experience and are likely to use the bus service again in the future.

Defensive driving

Defensive driving is a set of skills that allows a driver to anticipate and respond to potential hazards on the road. It can help prevent accidents, and it is especially important for bus drivers who are responsible for the safety of their passengers.

People skills

People skills are the ability to interact with others in a positive and effective way. As a bus driver, you will need to be able to communicate with your passengers, understand their needs, and provide them with excellent customer service.

Patience

Patience is the ability to remain calm and levelheaded in difficult or challenging situations. As a bus driver, you will often be dealing with heavy traffic, impatient passengers, and tight schedules. Maintaining your patience will help you stay focused and avoid mistakes.

Physical fitness

Physical fitness is the ability to be physically active and to have the endurance to do activities for extended periods of time. Bus drivers need this skill because they are required to sit for long periods of time while driving.

Coordination

Coordination is the ability to use your body movements effectively and efficiently. As a bus driver, you need coordination to be able to control the vehicle, especially when making turns or stopping.

Map reading

Map reading is the ability to read and interpret maps. It is a critical skill for bus drivers, as they need to be able to navigate their route and identify landmarks.

Schedule adherence

Schedule adherence is the ability to stick to a set schedule. This is important for bus drivers because it helps to ensure that passengers arrive at their destinations on time.

Stress management

Stress management is a skill that all bus drivers need to have in order to be successful. This is because driving a bus can be a very stressful job, and if a driver is not able to manage their stress levels, it can lead to problems.

Some of the reasons why stress management is so important for bus drivers include:

-It can help them avoid accidents.

-It can help them stay calm and focused while driving.

-It can help them deal with difficult passengers.

Problem solving

Problem solving is the ability to identify and solve problems in a timely and effective manner. As a bus driver, you will need this skill in order to be able to deal with traffic delays, mechanical issues, and passenger concerns.

Flexibility

Flexibility is the ability to adapt to change. As a bus driver, you need to be able to adjust your route on the fly if there is traffic or construction, for example.

How to improve bus driver skills

Most bus drivers in the United States are required to have a commercial driver’s license (CDL), which entails passing both a written and skills test. Although the requirements to obtain a CDL may vary slightly from state to state, the skills test generally includes an on-road driving test as well as a pre-trip inspection test. The on-road test assesses a driver’s ability to safely operate a bus in traffic, while the pre-trip inspection tests their knowledge of the vehicle and its components.

There are a number of ways in which bus drivers can improve their skills and become better at their jobs. One way is to take additional training courses offered by their employer or by an outside organization. These courses can teach drivers how to better handle their buses, how to deal with difficult passengers, and how to stay calm in stressful situations. Additionally, drivers can also brush up on their defensive driving skills by taking a course or reading up on best practices.

Another way for bus drivers to improve their skills is to simply get more experience behind the wheel. The more time they spend driving, the better they will become at maneuvering their buses and dealing with traffic. Additionally, experienced drivers will also have an easier time anticipating problems and avoiding potential accidents.

Finally, it is important for bus drivers to maintain a positive attitude and remain professional at all times. This means being courteous to passengers, following all traffic laws, and keeping their buses clean and orderly. By exhibiting good behavior, bus drivers can set themselves apart from other motorists and show that they are truly dedicated to safety.

How to highlight bus driver skills

As a bus driver, you will need to be able to effectively communicate with your passengers, as well as maintain a clean and safe vehicle. You should also have a strong understanding of traffic laws and regulations.

On a resume

When highlighting your skills as a bus driver on a resume, be sure to include your experience driving different types of buses, as well as your safety record. If you have experience working with children or disabled passengers, be sure to mention that as well. Also, list any special training you have received, such as defensive driving courses.

In a cover letter

In your cover letter, be sure to highlight your skills as a bus driver. Mention your experience driving different types of buses and how you are comfortable with all sizes of groups. Describe how you are patient and efficient in getting passengers to their destination safely. Also, let the employer know that you have a clean driving record and are up-to-date on all required licenses and certifications. Finally, express your interest in the specific bus driver position and why you would be a good fit for the company.

During an interview

In order to highlight your skills as a bus driver during an interview, you should first discuss your experience driving a bus. You should then talk about your ability to follow a schedule and maintain a safe driving record. Finally, you should mention your customer service skills and your ability to work well with others.