Proposed Bill Could Lower Age Requirement for Tennessee School Bus Drivers
State Representative Mike Sparks (R-Smyrna) has introduced legislation aimed at addressing Tennessee’s critical school bus driver shortage by lowering the minimum driving age from 25 to 21 years old.
WKRN NEWS: Proposal to lower age requirement for school bus drivers
House Bill 84 seeks to expand the pool of qualified drivers while maintaining rigorous safety standards for student transportation. The proposal comes as districts across Tennessee – including Rutherford, Wilson, Montgomery, Williamson, Knox, and Shelby counties – struggle to maintain adequate bus service.
“Schools in Rutherford County have witnessed a bus driver shortage that has negatively impacted children, parents, and employees,” Sparks explained. “This shortage disrupts student schedules and can harm their learning environment. By expanding employment opportunities while maintaining safety standards, we can help districts meet the transportation needs that families rely on.”
The proposed age requirement would align Tennessee with neighboring states, where minimum ages for school bus drivers range from 18 to 21 years old.
Current Requirements and Safety Standards
Tennessee maintains strict requirements for school bus drivers, including:
– Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) with passenger and school bus endorsements
– Clean driving record with no DUI or reckless driving convictions in the past decade
– Annual physical examinations meeting Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration standards
– 40 hours of comprehensive training covering safety, student management, and emergency protocols
– State and federal background checks
– Mandatory drug and alcohol testing
– Current CPR and First Aid certification
Support from Education Leaders
David Settles, a Metro-Nashville school bus driver and Murfreesboro City School Board member, emphasized the importance of mentorship in driver development.
“You gain wisdom, insight, and encouragement which is so necessary in your first year,” Settles said. “Bus drivers are an integral part of education – we’re often the first and last face students see from the district each day.”
Butch Vaughn, a 40-year educator and Rutherford County school board member, supports the age reduction. “Young people who have been good drivers should be given the chance,”
Vaughn stated. “They will be mentored and supervised by experienced drivers.”
Next Steps
Rep. Sparks is exploring additional solutions, including a potential mentorship program, and continues to seek feedback from drivers, community leaders, and educational partners. The bill will be considered when the 114th General Assembly convenes on January 14.
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