Bus Driver

Bus drivers convey passengers by bus on specified routes according to specified time schedules.

There are a variety of responsibilities involved in being a bus driver. Before starting trips, drivers are responsible for inspecting their vehicle to ensure that they are operating properly. The vehicle's tyres, brakes, windshield wipers, lights, oil, petrol, water and safety equipment are checked to make sure that everything is in working order. A defect card on which the condition of the brakes, windscreen wipers and lights is stated, is normally supplied for this purpose. All defects are reported to the workshop's personnel. At different bus stops drivers have to receive bus fares or proof that people may travel free of charge e.g. pensioners.

Some bus drivers transport students or special clients, such as the elderly or persons with disabilities and may assist the passengers in boarding or exiting the bus. Others drive buses or motor coaches for charters and private carriage. They park vehicles at the loading areas, so that the passengers can board, and they load and unload the baggage in the baggage compartments. Bus drivers attached to touring or travel companies take people on bus tours throughout the country. They may sometimes act as tour guides.

During each trip the driver is responsible for the safety of the passengers and the vehicle. They must drive cautiously and obey all the road traffic rules. In addition, they see to the needs of their passengers, such as the elderly, mothers with children, the blind etc. They also collect lost articles in the bus at the end of each journey and hand them in at a central bus office. They are also expected to keep bus interiors clean for the passengers, to regulate the heating, lighting and ventilating systems for the comfort of the passengers, and to be friendly and helpful. At the end of the trip a waybill must be completed, on which the passenger statistics for that specific route are updated. Bus drivers may need to make minor repairs to the vehicle and change tyres.

Personal Requirements

pleasant personality
at least 21 years old
in possession of a valid bus driver’s license
courteous, tactful and patient
get along with others
work well under pressure
remain calm during emergencies
work well without supervision
emotionally stable
good eyesight
good health and stamina

How to Enter

Schooling & School Subjects

Grade 8 Certificate.
Employers prefer higher educational qualifications.

What to Study

Candidates receive in-service training.

Advanced driving courses are offered at: The Operator Training Centre, Emthonjeni Training Centre, Bloemfontein Training Centre, Apex Group Training Centre, Driver Training Scheme at Luipaardsvlei.

Note: At the City Council of Pretoria a Code 10 licence is not essential to be accepted for training, as the candidate can obtain the required licence during the training period.

Employment

municipalities
travel companies and tour operators
private firms
Transnet
SA Railways

Further Information

Any of the above potential employers.

Department of Transport
Private Bag X193
Pretoria, 0001
Tel: (012) 309-3000
www.transport.gov.za

SA Bus Operators’ Association
The Pivot, Building B
2nd Floor, Montecasino Boulevard
Fourways, Johannesburg
Tel: (011) 511-7641
www.saboa.co.za

Getting Started

talk to a bus driver about this type of career
obtain a driver’s licence
try to obtain part-time work as a taxicab driver, a delivery truck driver or other type of driving job
gather more information from the Department of Transport

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