FAQ
School Bus Monitor FAQ
Answers to the most common questions about working as a school bus monitor.
Straight answers to the questions people ask most about becoming a school bus monitor: pay, training time, degrees, certifications and whether it’s a good career.
9 questions about school bus monitors
Do monitors need a license?
No, but they pass background checks.
Is it part-time?
Usually.
Do monitors work summers?
Usually not.
How much does a school bus monitor make?
The median annual wage for school bus monitors was $35,100 ($16.88 per hour) in May 2025, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. The lowest 10% earned less than $28,130 and the highest 10% earned more than $43,250.
How long does it take to become a school bus monitor?
Most people need about A few days to weeks of training. A high school diploma and short-term training are typical.
Do you need a degree to be a school bus monitor?
No four-year degree is typically required. BLS lists “high school diploma or equivalent” as the typical entry-level education, plus short-term on-the-job training.
Is school bus monitor a good career?
It can be, depending on your goals. Employment is projected to change -1.9% from 2025–35 (a projected decline), with about 13,400 openings each year. Upsides include school schedule; a common challenge is that split shifts.
What skills does a school bus monitor need?
Key technical skills include student supervision, wheelchair securement, behavior management, and emergency procedures. Employers also value patience, calm, and kindness.
What certifications are available for school bus monitors?
Common credentials include Monitor training, CPR and first aid, Background check, and Special needs transport training. Requirements vary by state and employer.
Still deciding?
Try the School Bus Monitor fit quiz, compare with School Bus Driver, or explore School Bus Monitor training.
Sources
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2025, SOC 33-9094 (School bus monitors).
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Employment Projections, Table 1.2 (2025–35).
- O*NET OnLine summary for School bus monitors (U.S. Department of Labor).
- BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook.
Reviewed by the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team. Pay figures are national estimates; local pay varies. See our editorial policy.