Darlington County School District launches dual assignment bus driving program for employees
DARLINGTON, S.C. – Classified employees working in the Darlington County School District now have a chance to earn extra income by driving school buses part-time. The district recently launched the initiative with a goal of combating a bus driver shortage being experienced across the state.
Any classified employee, such as a custodian, teaching assistant, coach, secretary, etc., may apply for the program. Not all classified employees may be able to participate due to job responsibilities, requirements and work times.
Interested employees could drive just one or two routes a day and earn fair compensation in addition to pay for their primary job in the district.
Potential applicants do not need a current CDL (Commercial Driving License) to apply, but they must have a current driver’s license and a clean driving record. A CDL can be obtained when all necessary training is complete.
There are 10 steps to becoming a school bus driver:
1. Complete an application for employment and paperwork to attend a training class.
2. Pass a SLED background check.
3. Pass a check of license history with the DMV.
4. Complete State Department of Education classroom training (20 hours).
5. Obtain a Commercial Drivers License (CDL) permit.
6. Pass a physical and a drug test.
7. Train with district instructors for a length of time to be able to perform pre-trip skills and driving.
8. Pass a physical performance test.
9. Obtain CDL license with proper endorsements.
10. Ride a route for five days with a driver.
For more information or to apply for the dual assignment bus driving program, please contact the DCSD Office of Transportation at 843-398-2313.