How to Be Public Transportation Driver - Job Description, Skills, and Interview Questions

Nov 30, -0001 / 5 Minutes Read / By Albert

How to Become

Professional Organizations

FAQ

Links

Taking public transportation can have a positive effect on our environment, as well as providing a reliable service to those who need it. The role of the public transportation driver is crucial in this. They are responsible for the safe and efficient operation of the vehicle and its passengers, while also contributing to the reduction of air pollution and traffic congestion.

By driving responsibly and efficiently, they can reduce fuel consumption, lower emissions and make the roads safer. Furthermore, they provide a valuable service to those who cannot or choose not to drive, such as people with disabilities, elderly people, and those without access to a personal vehicle. This helps to promote social inclusion and reduce social inequality, while also reducing the amount of traffic on the roads.

Steps How to Become

Meet the Minimum Qualifications. Most employers require public transportation drivers to have a valid drivers license and be at least 18 years of age. Some employers may require a commercial drivers license (CDL), depending on the type of vehicle being driven.
Complete a Background Check and Drug Screen. Background checks and drug screens are standard for all employers in the transportation industry. Many employers require applicants to pass a criminal background check and provide proof of a clean driving record.
Complete Training. Training requirements vary from employer to employer, but most employers require at least 40 hours of training. The training includes classroom instruction, on-the-road driving, and safety drills.
Obtain a Medical Certificate. Most public transportation employers require drivers to obtain a medical certificate from a doctor or other qualified medical professional in order to prove they are physically capable of driving a vehicle safely.
Pass an Exam. Most employers require applicants to pass a written exam in order to demonstrate their knowledge of the rules and regulations of the public transportation system they will be driving for.
Get Licensed. Depending on the state and the type of vehicle being driven, drivers may need to obtain a special license or permit in order to legally operate the vehicle.
Pass Final Evaluation. Once training is completed, most employers require applicants to pass a final evaluation before beginning work. The evaluation includes driving the route the driver will be assigned to and demonstrating the ability to operate the vehicle safely.

In order for public transportation drivers to remain updated and efficient, they must constantly stay informed of changes to routes and services, familiarize themselves with the latest safety protocols, and maintain their vehicles in good working order. they must adhere to the laws and regulations governing their industry, such as speed limits and hours of service. By staying informed and following the rules, public transit drivers can ensure that they are providing a reliable and safe service to their customers.

Furthermore, they should be aware of any technological advancements that may have an impact on their job, such as GPS tracking or mobile ticketing. Finally, they should take the time to review training materials and participate in refresher courses to stay up-to-date with the industry. By taking these steps, public transportation drivers can ensure that they are providing a reliable and efficient service.

You may want to check Public Outreach Coordinator, Public Accounting Manager, and Public Health Program Manager for alternative.

Job Description

Operate a public transportation vehicle in a safe and reliable manner, adhering to established routes and schedules.
Collect fares, issue transfers, and respond to customer inquiries.
Assist passengers with boarding and disembarking the vehicle.
Inspect vehicles before and after shifts, perform basic maintenance checks, and complete vehicle condition reports.
Follow all traffic laws and regulations, and be familiar with local streets and landmarks.
Report any vehicle defects or incidents immediately.
Maintain cleanliness of vehicle and provide a courteous and friendly environment for passengers.
Prepare and maintain all related paperwork and records accurately and on time.
Undergo all necessary safety training, and adhere to safety procedures at all times.

Skills and Competencies to Have

Ability to follow a schedule and route accurately.
Ability to read and understand maps.
Ability to effectively communicate with passengers.
Knowledge of applicable traffic and safety regulations.
Ability to operate public transportation vehicles, such as buses and trains, safely and efficiently.
Knowledge of local geography.
Ability to respond quickly to emergency situations.
Ability to maintain a neat, clean, and orderly vehicle interior.
Ability to accept payments and provide change as necessary.
Basic knowledge of basic vehicle maintenance and repair procedures.

Having a strong sense of customer service is an essential skill for public transportation drivers. Drivers must be able to navigate routes quickly and accurately, while also providing courteous customer service to passengers. public transportation drivers must be patient and understanding when dealing with difficult passengers or situations.

Having a good attitude and the ability to stay focused on the task at hand are also key attributes for public transportation drivers. A driver's knowledge of local roads, traffic patterns, and regulations is also critical for safe and efficient operation of their vehicles. Furthermore, punctuality is important to ensure that passengers can get to their destinations on time.

Lastly, public transportation drivers should be familiar with the rules of the road and have a valid driver's license in order to ensure the safety of all passengers. These skills are essential for public transportation drivers in order to provide an enjoyable, safe, and reliable service.

Public Affairs Manager, Public Relations Intern, and Public Librarian are related jobs you may like.

Frequent Interview Questions

What experience do you have driving public transportation?
How would you handle a difficult customer?
Describe how you would handle a route that was behind schedule.
What safety protocols do you follow when driving passengers?
How do you stay informed about changes in routes and schedules?
What challenges have you faced when driving a public transportation vehicle?
How do you ensure your passengers are comfortable and safe?
Explain how you would respond to a medical emergency onboard your vehicle.
Describe your experience with operating different types of public transportation vehicles.
How do you keep track of the fare collection process?

Common Tools in Industry

GPS system. A device used to track the location of a vehicle, often used by public transportation drivers to stay on route and keep track of their location (e. g. Garmin Nuvi).
Two-way radios. A device used to communicate with other drivers and/or dispatchers (e. g. Motorola CLS 1110).
Intercom systems. An audio system allowing passengers to communicate with the driver (e. g. Public Announcement System).
Visual systems. A device used to display information to the driver such as route times, stops and passenger alerts (e. g. LCD Display System).
Ticket machines. A machine used to provide tickets to passengers (e. g. Farebox).
Mobile payment systems. A system allowing passengers to pay for tickets using their mobile devices (e. g. Apple Pay).

Professional Organizations to Know

American Public Transportation Association (APTA)
Community Transportation Association of America (CTAA)
National Association for Public Transportation Advocates (NAPTA)
National Association of State Directors of Pupil Transportation Services (NASDPTS)
National School Transportation Association (NSTA)
Public Transportation Industry Council (PITC)
Public Transit Association (PTA)
Transportation Learning Center (TLC)
Women in Transportation Seminar (WTS)

We also have Public Health Technician, Public Health Administrator, and Public Affairs Director jobs reports.

Common Important Terms

Bus Route. A designated route along which a bus travels, typically connecting two or more destinations.
Fare Box. A device located in the front of a bus that collects fares from passengers.
Fare Structure. The system of fares used for public transportation, which may include flat fees, distance-based fees, and reduced fees for seniors and those with disabilities.
Shuttle Service. A public transportation service that operates between two or more points, often on a regular schedule.
Accessible Vehicle. A vehicle that is designed to accommodate passengers who use wheelchairs or other mobility devices.
Headway. The time between when one bus leaves from a stop and the next bus arrives at the same stop.
Scheduled Stop. A designated stop where a bus will always stop, regardless of the number of riders waiting.
Pre-Boarding. The process of allowing passengers to board a bus prior to the scheduled departure time.
Transfer Point. A designated stop where passengers can transfer between different routes or modes of transportation.
Passenger Load. The total number of riders on a bus at any given time.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of license is required to drive a public transportation vehicle?

A Commercial Driver's License (CDL) is typically required to operate a public transportation vehicle.

How many passengers can an average public transportation bus hold?

The average public transportation bus can hold up to 40-60 passengers.

What types of safety training do public transportation drivers receive?

Public transportation drivers typically receive training in defensive driving techniques, customer service, and emergency response procedures.

What is the average salary for a public transportation driver?

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for bus and transit drivers was $43,680 in May 2020.

Are there any additional qualifications needed to be a public transportation driver?

Public transportation drivers may be required to pass a background check and have a good driving record. Additionally, some employers may require prior experience or special certifications.