The driver of a school bus is responsible for the safety of students riding the bus; therefore, the students are under the authority and supervision of the bus driver while on the bus. Each bus driver shall observe all state laws and regulations pertaining to the safe use of school buses.
The following qualifications for bus drivers have been established by law or by regulations of the Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education and/or by policies of the Board. The qualifications for a substitute bus driver shall be the same as for a regularly employed driver.
- A bus driver shall hold a valid school bus permit in accordance with section 302.272, RSMo, and shall submit all driver's license numbers to the office of the Superintendent prior to the first day of school.
- A driver shall be at least twenty-one (21) years old at the time he/she applies for a school bus permit.
- A driver shall be in good physical and mental health, free from communicable disease, and have normal use of arms, hands, legs and feet. Vision shall be at least 20/40 in each eye, with correction if necessary. A driver shall be able to distinguish the colors of red, green and yellow. Hearing shall be adequate to hear ordinary conversation. A driver shall undergo a medical examination annually by a licensed physician, and shall present a signed medical examination certificate to the office of the Superintendent prior to the first day of school. In addition to the required medical certificate, the Board may require evidence of continued good health from individual drivers at any time it deems necessary. For those drivers aged 70 and over, the school bus permit shall be renewed annually. The driver shall pass the required examinations prior to receiving the renewed permit.
- A driver shall be neat and clean; abstain from the use of tobacco in the bus; refrain from driving under the influence of intoxicants, narcotics or drugs; and display appropriate conduct.
