Most school bus drivers don’t get paid in the summer since contracts usually cover the school year only. However, some districts offer summer routes, extended contracts, or unemployment benefits to supplement income during the break.
Key Takeaways:
- Pay usually stops when school is out.
- Summer routes or programs may provide extra income.
- Some drivers qualify for unemployment benefits.
- Checking district policies helps clarify pay options.
School bus drivers play a vital role in ensuring the safety and timely transportation of students to and from schools across the country. Yet, when the school year ends and summer vacation begins, many wonder: Do school bus drivers get paid in the summer? The answer is not always straightforward. Compensation can vary depending on the district, contracts, union agreements, and whether drivers take on additional roles during the off-season.
In this blog, we provide a detailed breakdown of how school bus drivers are paid, what happens during the summer months, and what financial opportunities they may pursue during this time.
Understanding How School Bus Drivers Are Paid
Most school bus drivers are classified as part-time employees, although their responsibilities are critical. They are typically paid hourly wages rather than an annual salary. Their pay is often calculated based on the number of routes they complete each day, and those routes usually run only on school days.
Unlike teachers, who may have contracts that spread their salary across 12 months, bus drivers usually get paid only for the hours they work. This means that once the academic year ends, regular paychecks may pause unless special arrangements are in place. The U.S. Department of Labor’s Wage and Hour Division regulates pay standards and protections that may apply to drivers depending on their classification.
Do Bus Drivers Receive Paychecks in the Summer?
In many districts, the answer is no—school bus drivers do not receive their standard pay during the summer unless they have agreed to a 12-month payment option (where wages earned during the school year are distributed evenly throughout the entire year).
Some school districts, however, do offer contract options that allow drivers to receive a consistent paycheck even in months when school is not in session. These arrangements vary widely and depend on district budgets, union negotiations, and driver agreements.
For most drivers, summer means a gap in their regular income unless they seek summer driving assignments, which makes understanding school bus summer pay an important consideration for those in the profession. Some may also qualify for unemployment depending on district and state policies. You can check eligibility through the U.S. Department of Labor’s Unemployment Insurance resources.
Opportunities for Summer Work
While many assume school bus drivers are off-duty in the summer, there are several opportunities available for continued employment:
1. Summer School Routes
Some districts run summer school programs, and bus drivers are needed to transport students who attend. These routes often pay the same hourly rate as during the regular school year and can provide steady work for several weeks.
2. Field Trips and Summer Camps
Schools, day camps, and youth organizations often hire bus drivers during the summer to handle transportation for field trips, sports events, and recreational activities. This type of work may not be as consistent as school-year driving but can help supplement income.
3. Charter and Shuttle Services
During summer, many school bus drivers supplement income by working with charter bus companies, airport shuttles, or private transportation services. These opportunities provide extra hours, steady employment, and often higher pay, depending on the employer’s needs.
4. Driving for Special Events
Concert transportations, festivals, sporting events, and community gatherings often need reliable transportation for large crowds. Experienced school bus drivers are frequently hired for these temporary roles, offering them flexible schedules, extra income, and valuable seasonal work opportunities.
Union Agreements and Summer Pay
For bus drivers who are part of a union, contracts may include special provisions about summer pay or opportunities for additional work. Some unions negotiate options that allow drivers to spread their earnings evenly throughout the year. Others may secure priority for summer school assignments, ensuring their members have continued employment when school is out.
These agreements can make a big difference in managing finances, as unionized drivers often enjoy better job security, benefits, and access to extra hours compared to non-unionized drivers. This directly impacts how school bus driver summer pay is structured.
Do School Bus Drivers Receive Benefits in the Summer?
Even if bus drivers are not actively working during the summer, some still receive benefits depending on their employment status. In many districts, drivers who are classified as full-time employees (based on hours worked and contractual agreements) may retain benefits such as:
- Health insurance coverage
- Retirement plan contributions
- Paid time off (PTO) balances
However, part-time drivers may not receive such benefits, leaving them to cover their expenses during the summer break without employer assistance.
Financial Challenges During the Summer
Because income can stop when school is not in session, many school bus drivers face financial challenges during the summer months. This gap in pay can create difficulties in budgeting, especially for those who rely solely on their driving income.
To address this, many drivers:
- Seek secondary employment during the summer.
- Plan ahead by saving a portion of their school-year earnings.
- Opt into 12-month pay distribution plans if available.
Average Pay for School Bus Drivers
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average hourly wage for school bus drivers is around $20 per hour, though this varies depending on state, district, and experience level. Drivers in urban areas or districts with union support often earn higher wages compared to rural districts.
Still, since the job is typically limited to 9-10 months of work per year, the annual income for school bus drivers is usually lower than other transportation jobs. This makes the summer break a critical period where drivers must plan carefully to manage finances.
Pros and Cons of Summer Break for Bus Drivers
Like teachers and other school staff, bus drivers often view the summer break as both a challenge and a benefit.
Pros
- Time to rest and recharge after a demanding school year.
- Opportunity to spend more time with family and personal projects.
- Flexibility to take on seasonal work outside of school transportation.
Cons
- Loss of income if no summer routes are available.
- Need for careful financial planning to cover expenses.
- Possible inconsistency in benefits, especially for part-time employees.
How Drivers Can Prepare Financially for the Summer
School bus drivers can take proactive steps to ensure financial stability during the off-season:
- Budget for the year ahead by setting aside part of each paycheck.
- Explore part-time or seasonal jobs in transportation, delivery, or other industries.
- Inquire about 12-month pay options from their district or union.
- Seek summer school assignments or local camp transportation opportunities.
- Maintain emergency savings to cushion any gaps in employment.
Conclusion: Do School Bus Drivers Get Paid in the Summer?
Ultimately, whether school bus drivers receive summer pay depends on their district policies, contracts, and willingness to seek additional work. While many drivers do not earn wages during the summer break, opportunities for continued employment exist through summer school routes, camps, charter services, and other transportation needs. For those who prefer time off, summer provides a chance to recharge, though it requires smart financial planning.
School bus driving is a profession built on responsibility and dedication, and while the summer months can bring uncertainty, many drivers find ways to make the most of this seasonal gap. If you’re searching for a dependable transportation solution, Phoenix Transportation San Francisco is your trusted partner. Whether it’s summer programs, camps, or special events, our safe and professional services are here for you. Contact us today to book reliable bus rentals tailored to your needs.
