Based on the requirements set forth by Service Oklahoma, operating a school bus requires a Class B CDL with the following endorsements:

• School Bus
• Passenger, and
• Air Brakes (Optional-only required if you intend to operate a school bus equipped with an air brake system).

For more details on vehicles requiring a CDL, you can visit the Service Oklahoma website here.

View our page here for information on the training process for your CDL. In short, there are several steps that you must take to obtain your Commercial Driver's License (CDL), which includes:

1. Studying for and passing a written exam that consists of a general knowledge portion in addition to portions that pertain to the endorsements you intend to add to your license. View more information about CDL Written Exams here.
2. Upon successful completion of your Written Exams, you obtain your Commercial Learner's Permit (CLP). This is required for you to complete the necessary behind the wheel training, which is a prerequisite for you to qualify for your drive test. View more information on behind the wheel training here. 
3. Once you complete the required behind-the-wheel training, you can take your drive test at either a Service Oklahoma location or by testing with a certified Third Party Examiner. Your test will consist of a pre-trip section, maneuvers section, and an on-the-road drive section. 

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REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

Individuals interested in becoming an Oklahoma State Certified School Bus Driving Instructor must meet the minimum qualifications established by the Oklahoma State Department of Education (OSDE). These requirements help ensure instructors possess the experience, knowledge, and practical skills necessary to effectively train future school bus drivers and uphold the highest standards of safety and professionalism.

1. VALID CLASS B COMMERCIAL DRIVER'S LICENSE (CDL)

Applicants must hold a valid Oklahoma Class B Commercial Driver License (CDL) with both the Passenger (P) and School Bus (S) endorsements. Maintaining a valid CDL demonstrates that the applicant has met the licensing requirements necessary to safely operate a school bus and is qualified to instruct others in commercial vehicle operation.

2. SCHOOL BUS DRIVING EXPERIENCE

Applicants must have a minimum of two (2) years of experience operating a school bus in Oklahoma. This experience provides instructors with valuable real-world knowledge of student transportation, state regulations, vehicle operation, and the day-to-day responsibilities of a professional school bus driver, allowing them to effectively mentor and prepare new drivers.

3. COMPLETE AN APPROVED INSTRUCTOR EDUCATION PROGRAM

To ensure consistent, high-quality instruction across Oklahoma, applicants must complete one of the following approved instructor preparation pathways:

• Successfully complete an Instructor Internship by assisting with two Oklahoma State Department of Education School Bus Driver Certification Courses under the supervision of a certified SDE instructor; or
• Successfully complete a School Bus Driver Instructor Course approved by the Oklahoma State Department of Education.

These training options are designed to prepare instructors to effectively teach classroom instruction, evaluate driver performance, administer required assessments, and deliver training in accordance with Oklahoma and federal requirements.

Individuals who choose the approved online instructor course may register here. OKAPT members should register through the Member Portal to receive discounted member pricing.

READY TO BECOME A STATE CERTIFIED DRIVING INSTRUCTOR?

If you're ready to take the next step in your transportation career, becoming an Oklahoma State Certified School Bus Driving Instructor is a great way to help train the next generation of professional school bus drivers. Review the official certification requirements, complete the application, and learn more about the certification process through the Oklahoma State Department of Education.

OSDE Application for Certification