Which agency oversees the school bus driver certification process?

The agency that oversees the school bus driver certification process is the Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) or its equivalent in various states. This responsibility includes ensuring that bus drivers meet specific qualifications and standards for safety and operational competence. The DMV typically administers driving tests, evaluates the driver's history, and issues the necessary endorsements on commercial driver's licenses (CDLs), which are essential for operating school buses.

While the Department of Education plays a vital role in setting educational standards and managing school operations, including transportation policies, it does not handle the certification of bus drivers. The Department of Transportation has broader responsibilities across transportation systems but does not focus exclusively on driver certification. Local school districts may manage the hiring of bus drivers and the operational aspects of school transportation, but the actual certification mandates and testing processes fall under the jurisdiction of the DMV.