First Student training programs
Wide-ranging training programs fine-tuned over 100 years.
ACCESS TRAININGComprehensive training and support
No matter your training needs, our programs offer specialized programs for different skill levels, producing a prepared and professional transportation team.
New driver CLP training
- Free Commercial Learner’s Permit course taught by First Student drivers instills new drivers with the knowledge and skills to earn their CLP
- CDL (Commercial Driver’s License) course focuses on go/no-go decision-making, behind-the-wheel skills and maneuvering, and customer service
Entry level school bus driver training
- Comprehensive, registration compliant instruction with the latest regulations and safety protocols, including MAP21 compliant training, FMCSA registration, and driver testing
- Personalized instruction and feedback from experienced instructors
- Post-training paperwork and enrollment filed with the Federal Registry
- 100% FMCSA certified
- Training vehicles provided
Start building a prepared and professional transportation team.
ACCESS TRAININGComprehensive school bus driver training
- Combines classroom instruction with on-the-job application
- Developed by experts and tailored for each individual, regardless of prior experience
- One-on-one guidance and evaluation from expert instructors, completing all post-training procedures and registrations
- 45.5 hours of training, with modules featuring up to 12 specialized skill-building courses
Special needs training
- Comprehensive special needs training developed by leading experts in behavioral sciences
- Multi-module training presents a set of guidelines, best practices, tools, and on-the-bus instruction
- Drivers, attendants, and monitors learn how to adapt and provide for individual needs, like verbal and nonverbal communication styles and positive strategies for addressing behavior
In the news
5 Questions: First Student on Driver Recruitment, Retention & Contracting
School Bus Fleet, Amanda Huggett | April 2025
In an interview, COO Dean Suhre shares how First Student is enhancing driver recruitment, training, and retention to provide families and schools with safe, reliable, and fully staffed transportation.
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