Official State of Rhode Island website

State of Rhode Island Division of Motor Vehicles Department of Revenue

School Bus

A school bus is defined as a motor vehicle owned by a public or government agency that is used to transport children to or from school, or a privately owned vehicle when operated for compensation to provide the same service.

 

For more information contact 401-462-5772 or email DMV.SchoolBus@dmv.ri.gov

Licensing Requirements

To work as a school bus driver in Rhode Island, you must have:

Minimum Requirements

  • 21 years of age
  • 3 years of driving experience
  • Must be sponsored by a Rhode Island school bus company or school district
  • Applicants are required to pass the School Bus Certification Course through CCRI.

  • Applicants are required to pass a pre-trip inspection and road test using a school bus.

    Documents Required 

  • A completed  RI School Bus Certificate Application
  • An original BCI report issued by the Rhode Island Attorney General's Office
    • The BCI report must be issued within 60 days of submission
  • Valid DOT medical card issued within 90 days of submission
  • CCRI Training Card with passing results for the course, skills test and pre-trip inspection
  • If you live outside Rhode Island or have lived in Rhode Island for less than 5 years:
    • Submit a BCI check from each state or country where you lived in the past 5 years
    • Submit a certified driving record from those locations as well

Process for Certification

Step 1: Apply

A sponsoring bus company or school district submits your documents to the DMV School Bus Safety Coordinator via email at DMV.SchoolBus@dmv.ri.gov. The DMV reviews your application to ensure it meets eligibility requirements found in the RI Rules and Regulations for School Bus Driver Certification. 

Step 2: Get Approved

If eligible, the DMV will notify CCRI. CCRI will schedule your School Bus Certification Course through your sponsoring company.

Step 3: Complete Training and Testing

After completing the School Bus Certification Course, the applicant will be allowed to attempt the pre-trip inspection and road test at the CDL Skills Test Site.

Step 4: Receive Your Certificate

Once testing is completed, to receive the School Bus Certificate (White Card) the applicant must make an appointment with the Business and Commercial Office by calling 401-462-5772 or emailing DMV.SchoolBus@dmv.ri.gov.

Useful Links: