How to Drive a Bus

Have you ever wondered how to drive a bus? Just read the following steps, and you'll be a pro bus driver.

Get used to driving a long car first. An example would be to drive a limo. Driving a double-decker bus is the least of your worries in some countries. Most buses are 9.5 m to 18 m long, so it is very different from driving a tiny little "VW Beetle" in terms for parking and turning.  

Take a few bus rides to different makes of buses and get used to the controls before even getting driving lessons for a bus.
Cockpit drills like adjusting the mirrors, opening and closing the doors automatically and manually, and controls to help you change the destination panel. 

Think of where you want to work.By now, you should have the type of bus that you want to drive (e.g. a Dennis Dragon 11 m air-conditioned with semi-auto gearbox). You should think about which bus or touring coach company you want to work for. Go through their driving training. 

Even after you have passed the license, you will have to go through the 'restricted' stage, where you will be on 'assisted reconnaissance' mode , following other buses just to get used to your routes. You must learn your "Route A" thoroughly. Over time, your route may be modified, but then you have to adjust accordingly. Always be a kind person to the license giver, they will know if you are nice.

Understand why the particular fleet of buses are used. It could be that the fleet of buses has more seats to cope with large passenger load, or they are more suited for steep roads.

Attention to details could be the key to getting more than a bare pass on theory tests. Pop quizzes during your study may involve this type of questions.

When it is time to go for your bus license, your theory and driving skills will be assessed.