Without a doubt, driving in Mississippi is an unforgettable experience. Whether you’re cruising along the Great River Road, winding through the pine forests of Grenada Lake, or exploring the rolling hills near Natchez, this state offers a variety of road trips full of Southern charm. While drivers often enjoy driving in the Magnolia State, this pleasant activity can turn into a difficult challenge once the weather changes. Heavy rain, fog, and severe thunderstorms can reduce visibility and cause slippery roads. Flooding is also a concern in some areas, requiring drivers to turn around and find an alternative route. (School bus drivers would have to contact their dispatcher for an alternative route.)
While these conditions are quite difficult to navigate in a personal vehicle, school bus drivers must fully master them. They are tasked with transporting children safely to and from school, and this responsibility is not given lightly.
If you want to work as a school bus driver for a school district, you must obtain a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) with a School Bus (S) endorsement. The process of obtaining a CDL involves passing both a written CDL General Knowledge test (on commercial driving theory) and a skills test. For the S endorsement, you must also pass a special knowledge test that evaluates your ability to operate school buses safely. Drivers must also undergo a medical examination and a criminal background check. Once these steps are complete, candidates will attend a certified training program which includes classroom instruction and hands-on training.