Bus dirver applicants must be at least 25 years of age, pass a pre employment drug screen, a pre emplyment background check, and DOT physical prior to beginning training.

Transportation U – What to Expect:

Transportation U consists of daily sessions meeting Monday through Friday for a minimum of four (4) weeks. Classes are held from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. with a 1 hour lunch break. Training will be held at the Sarah Simpson Professional Development Technology Center. Students are expected to make arrangements to be present every day for the duration of the training period. 

Training will include:  

➢ Intensive study of the Tennessee Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) Manual: 

     Each student will receive their own CDL manual. This will be your own personal study guide – use

     it to make notes and highlight important information in preparation for the test over its content at

     the end of the first week 

➢ Instruction in Knox County Schools policies and procedures 

➢ Familiarization with federal and state mandates for pupil transportation 

➢ Becoming acquainted with the physical school bus and general outside practices 

➢ Practicing behind-the-wheel skills in a school bus 

➢ Any and all training provided by Knox County Schools will follow CDC and Knox County Health

     Department COVID-19 guidelines in order to maintain a safe environment for everyone.

     Classrooms will be disinfected prior to and after class meetings. Hand sanitizer will also be

     available to everyone. 

SpEd School Bus Applicants: 

➢ If you will be driving for special needs students, additional training is required. 

➢ Must attend a one (1) day SpEd Training class conducted by KCS Special Education  Department. 

➢ If you will be driving a lift bus for special needs student: 

➢ Must attend a Wheelchair Securement Certification class with certified personnel on school bus (school bus provided by contractor/driver). 

Upon completion of training Transportation U Graduates will:   

• Possess a Tennessee Commercial Driver’s License (CDL), including Passenger (P) and School Bus (S) endorsements 

• Become eligible for placement on the Knox County Schools driver roster 

• Earn a $750 stipend for their efforts, paid in their name to their sponsoring contractor 

• Be a part of an outstanding group of Knox County Schools Professional Bus Drivers!

Please email transportationsafety@knoxschools.org with subject:  Transportation U - New Applicant or call 865-594-3840 for more information.