Public Transit Bus Driver Onboarding Checklist

Public Transit Bus Driver Onboarding Process

Are you looking for help setting up a staff orientation process so that when your new Public Transit Bus Driver starts their role, they can learn about their responsibilities and your company as quickly as possible? Whether you’re keen to use buddy onboarding, want to automate your Transportation onboarding experience or just need an onboarding checklist for your new Public Transit Bus Driver, you’re in the right place. We’ve put together a sample Public Transit Bus Driver onboarding checklist below and have created onboarding templates & resources to help.

Public Transit Bus Driver Onboarding Checklist

1. Orientation: The new bus driver attends an orientation session where they are introduced to the company’s policies, procedures, and safety protocols. This task is typically performed by the human resources department or a designated trainer.

2. Paperwork and Documentation: The bus driver completes all necessary paperwork, including employment contracts, tax forms, and any other required documentation. This task is usually handled by the human resources department.

3. Licensing and Certification: The new driver ensures they possess the necessary driver’s license and any additional certifications required for operating a public transit bus. They may need to provide proof of these credentials to the human resources department or the company’s safety department.

4. Training: The bus driver undergoes comprehensive training on various aspects of their job, such as defensive driving techniques, passenger safety, emergency procedures, and route familiarization. This training is typically conducted by experienced trainers or senior drivers.

5. Vehicle Familiarization: The new driver becomes familiar with the specific type of bus they will be operating, including its controls, safety features, and maintenance requirements. This task is often performed by a senior driver or a designated trainer.

6. Route Familiarization: The bus driver learns the routes they will be assigned to, including stops, schedules, and any specific instructions related to each route. This information is typically provided by the company’s scheduling or operations department.

7. Safety and Security Procedures: The driver receives training on safety and security protocols, such as handling unruly passengers, responding to emergencies, and reporting incidents. This training may be conducted by the company’s safety department or a designated trainer.

8. Customer Service Training: The bus driver undergoes customer service training to ensure they can effectively interact with passengers, provide assistance, and handle customer inquiries or complaints. This training may be conducted by the company’s customer service department or a designated trainer.

9. Communication Systems: The driver is trained on the use of communication systems, such as two-way radios or onboard computer systems, to stay connected with dispatchers and receive important updates or instructions. This training is typically provided by the company’s operations or technology department.

10. Company Policies and Regulations: The new driver familiarizes themselves with the company’s policies and regulations, including attendance policies, dress code, and any specific rules related to their job. This information is usually provided by the human resources department or through employee handbooks.

11. Union or Collective Bargaining Agreement: If applicable, the bus driver learns about the union or collective bargaining agreement that governs their employment, including rights, benefits, and any specific provisions related to their role. This information may be provided by the company’s labor relations department or union representatives.

12. Drug and Alcohol Testing: The driver undergoes mandatory drug and alcohol testing as per company policies and regulatory requirements. This testing is typically coordinated by the company’s safety department or a designated testing facility.

13. Mentorship or Buddy Program: The new driver may be assigned a mentor or buddy who can provide guidance, support, and answer any questions they may have during their initial period with the company. This program is often coordinated by the human resources department or a designated mentorship coordinator.

14. Performance Evaluation: The driver undergoes periodic performance evaluations to assess their driving skills, adherence to company policies, and overall job performance. These evaluations are typically conducted by the company’s safety department or a designated supervisor.

15. Ongoing Training and Professional Development: The bus driver participates in ongoing training programs and professional development opportunities to enhance their skills, stay updated on industry trends, and maintain compliance with regulatory requirements. These programs may be organized by the company’s training department or external training providers

Setting Up Your Employee Onboarding Process

From reading through the items in the example Public Transit Bus Driver checklist above, you’ll now have an idea of how you can apply best practices to getting your new Public Transit Bus Driver up to speed and working well in your Transportation team. Scroll up to see the link to our onboarding templates & resources or get in touch to discuss getting help setting up your systems and processes in this area.