Before you begin your application, get to know the minimum requirements and how we help you get a Commercial Driver’s License.
The Application Process
First, gather your information together.
- Your valid driver’s license
- A list of any other names you have gone by (aliases, maiden names, etc.)
- If you are unsure of your driving record, you should check with your local Department of Motor Vehicles office for a copy of your record
- Make sure you have access (on your phone/tablet/computer) to view your personal email account if you need to create an account in governmentjobs.com or don’t remember your username and/or password
Career-oriented individuals who are safety-driven, dependable, and have a commitment to providing excellent customer service across a diverse culture are encouraged to apply here.
Look for the “Bus Driver” job title in the community you wish to be based out of and click on it.
Read through the job announcement and when you are ready to start your application, click on the “Apply” link, create your account or login to your existing account and follow the steps to complete each section of the application.
When you have entered everything, you will need to certify and submit your application. You will receive a notice on the screen when you have successfully submitted the application.
Minimum Requirements
- Ability to read, write, and verbally communicate in English
- Licensed, active driver for the past five years (any class license)
- You may be required to obtain a commercial learners permit, which you will receive paid training to acquire.
- A good driving record
- No more than two moving violations within the past three years
- No suspensions longer than 90 days within the past three years
- License not revoked or withdrawn within the past three years
- None of these driving-related convictions within the past 10 years: (automatic disqualification)
- DWI/DUI
- Open bottle
- Leaving the scene of an accident
- Refusing to comply with implied consent
- Careless or reckless driving
- Inattentive driving
- Committing a felony while operating a motor vehicle
- Violating state or local law (other than parking tickets) arising in connection with a fatal accident
Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) info
The Arrowhead Transit bus driver position requires a Class A or B commercial driver’s license with a passenger endorsement and no restrictions to air brakes. However, you can be hired and receive behind-the-wheel training with a commercial learner’s permit if you meet all other minimum qualifications and are successful in the selection process.
This chart will help you determine if you need to get a commercial learner’s permit. You do not need a commercial learner’s permit to apply.
| CLASS | PASSENGER ENDORSEMENT | AIR BRAKES | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Look at the back of your license. Where is says “Endorsements” does it list “Passenger?” | Look at the back of your license. Where is says “Restrictions” does it list anything regarding “Air Brakes? | ||
| A | Yes – OK No – A permit is required | No – OK Yes – A permit is required | |
| B | Yes – OK No – A permit is required | No – OK Yes – A permit is required | |
| CD | Both Class C and Class D license holders will need to take and pass the required written permit tests and obtain a Class B Commercial Learners Permit. | ||
How to get a permit
What written tests are required?
Whether you are seeking a first-time commercial learner’s permit or already have a CDL and need to add the passenger endorsement or remove an air brake restriction, you will be required to take and pass three written permit tests; General Knowledge, Air Brakes and Passenger. Once you pass the tests you will need to apply for and obtain the commercial learner permit.
I already have a CDL, why do I need to take all three tests?
The law requires you take all knowledge tests relative to the vehicle you will be road tested in. For the bus driver position, you will be taking the road test in a Metro Transit bus which is a passenger vehicle with air brakes. The general knowledge test is standard to all commercial permits. Get more details and view an electronic version of the Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) Manual.
Does it cost anything to get a permit?
You may take each knowledge test twice for free. Third and subsequent knowledge tests are $10 each, so make sure you study the manual well before taking the tests. Once you have taken and passed the three knowledge tests (General Knowledge, Air Brakes, and Passenger) you will need to apply for the permit. The instruction permit fee is $10.50, plus an additional $2.50 for the passenger endorsement, for a total cost of $13.
The permit application form says I need to provide a copy of my medical examiners certificate. What should I do?
For the bus driver position, you may check the “Exempt” box.
I have my permit, now what?
As soon as you receive the “temporary” permit copy, you can bring your permit to the Arrowhead Transit Location (where you interviewed), Monday – Friday, between the hours of 8:00 a.m. – 3:30 p.m., or email to jacklyn.wright@aeoa.org or bruce.larson@aeoa.org.
Where do I take the permit tests?
See a list of exam stations:
Note:
Not all Department of Vehicle Services offices offer the knowledge tests. Call ahead.
