I quit a high ranking job in the health industry here in South Australia. Mental health people. Suicides. Pain people. Drug addicts, you name it. So I grabbed a job on the buses. Same people, different responsibility. Instead of treating them, I just had to get them to their treatment on time. So cool. And you, my mate, make great videos which I love watching. Stay safe on the road, buddy. Drive on.
Thanks so much for watching!! I’m sure your experience dealing with mental health people helps dealing with some of the passengers! You stay safe as well out there!!
Sorry you had to quit your job but hope you like your new job better. You know I'm not a guy, right? lol Thanks for the compliment on my videos; I'm much obliged my friend!
If you are new to this channel, I think you will find Kewan's combination of story telling, humor and life lessons are captivating. For me, another PRO is the great satisfaction maneuvering this ~40' long behemoth in and out among the incompetent, self-centered and impaired drivers and pedestrians. It was the closest to being a jumbo jet pilot I would ever be. 🙏🤲🕊🤗
@@ronnierichardson3469 If you drive for a bus company that hires 18yr olds and has Gillig buses in their fleet..yes! There are quite a few colleges that hire at 18 to operate the campus buses.
Your helping me make a big decision. Been with UPS for 21 years. I’m getting fed up. Plus delivering pkgs in cold Montreal weather is not getting easier. Your videos are great dude thanks!
I don't know if you've changed jobs since this comment, but I can attest to the greatness of operating city transit buses. It's proved to be a great career for people who come from high-stress jobs because (as in my case) it's very low-stress and pays very very similar to what some higher-level careers make. I don't know what you make currently with UPS, but the transit system I work in, we can earn up to (if memory serves) right around $150k (US) annually. Yes, that does mean a lot of hours, but those of us who make $100k + per year don't even consider the job work.
My father was an operator for 43 years and I had interest in doing it he told Me HELLLLLLLL NO! so I ended up going to transit maintenance mechanic that's the job to go to!
Great video. I've been a career bus driver all my life. But I give hats off to transit drivers above all. Personally, I can't handle the stress of it. I drive charter bus and intercity buses which are a totally different animal. Typically we pick up a group of happy people going somewhere fun or interesting. When we arrive at the destination, in many cases we get to simply wait for them to complete their respective activities and then drive them back to the point of origin. This means being on the clock for hours just enjoying the downtime. Often at the end of the trip you get a nice gratuity as well. And if taking a group out of town for a few days your meals and hotels are covered as well. Sure the benefits aren't as good as transit but for me it's about what each day consists of. Dealing with stopping every few blocks, fare disputes, homeless troublesome passengers, loading and unloading ADA passengers all day long while trying to maintain a tight schedule.... I just can't man.
Interesting. I’ve always thought charter and intercity bus would be worse because you’re stuck with the troublemakers. At least as a transit bus driver, I know that person will be getting off at some point or I can just call for the transit police to deal with them.
I operate transit buses in a large metropolitan area on the West Coast, and what's interesting is how many of my co-workers, as well as myself, gave up other careers (often times high-level careers) to become transit bus operators. So we aren't a bunch of dumb losers like many people choose to think we are. Anyway, here is how I deal with the "cons" of the job: *"I remember I'm being paid by the minute."* At the top wage, we earn $36 an hour. If it's overtime, we're making about $54/hr. So when some dumb yokel decides to pitch a fit and stand in front of my bus for an hour, two hours, 10 hours, a day, a week, a month, a year... *I'm being paid by the minute* to sit there, pull out my Cheeto's & Coke, catch up on reading, pull out my phone and browse Amazon, maybe file my nails - *whatever.* When you keep things in perspective, you can turn a lot of cons into pros, and the job becomes total cake. Same is true in the ice and snow. We have a lot of hills in the metro area. So when it snows, if it's not safe to keep the bus rolling, ya pull over, set the air brake, summon dispatch, and then sit and occupy yourself with any of the aforementioned activities until dispatch calls. I love snow, because that means I have no schedule to keep up with. Often times, snow means no passengers either, and at that point, you're being paid to take a pretty drive. Then there's our Extraboard Operators. If your seniority is low, the Extraboard is the place to be. It has its cons too, but those can be turned into pros very easily if you keep the right mindset. When I did EB, I would trade into shifts which required me to call the Station Agent by 10 AM the next day. They would tell me I had a 2pm report (or whatever), and that meant arriving to work in-uniform, and sitting down in the report area, waiting until my name is called. Most people I talk to have this mindset of, "I can't just sit! I need to be working and DOING something!" For me, the mindset was, "I'm sitting here getting paid the same exact wage as everybody else whose at top wage (most likely I'm even on overtime) to not have to worry about accidents or assaults, or complaints, or red lights, or tickets, or unruly passengers, etc. INSTEAD, my employer is paying me to sit here and read a book, browse Amazon, Wayfair, Craigslist - what have you, chit chat and yuk it up with coworkers, then maybe order some barbecue takeout, watch a murder mystery on TV (we have cable), take a quick snooze, and then be called up to the Station Agent's booth and told to go home. *HELLOOOO.* Actually get paid to have a day of zero stress? How could anyone say no to that??? 😂
I just retired from the T in Boston MA. I drove a bus for twenty four years. Your video pretty much says it all. Passenger relations was the most difficult. People hold the driver responsible for situations he/she has no control over such as traffic conditions and weather. It was not uncommon to be cursed at and harassed because the bus was late, cold or hot. Passengers would fight with each other. I can't count how many times I had to pull over and call the police. I've had people urinate and defalcate, expose themselves. There were times when the job can be quite dangerous. I'm thankful now that I am retired and can collect my pension and put all of that behind me. Hang in there and good luck.
I definitely feel your pain brother. I'm almost there man I have 38yrs behind this wheel and believe the conditions are worsening for us operators drastically. Enjoy your retirement brother I've got nine more years to go .
What country were you the driver in where that nasty stuff is happening. Passengers here are pretty laid back; they don't cause any problems. And they treat the bus drivers very nice.
I’ve got 24 years driving in June of this year for public Transportation in Denver I’d like to do 6 more years and get 30 however it’s getting harder and harder to drive with unpredictable passengers and reckless drivers on the roads. So I might retire early in 2 more years when I turn 50 with 26 years of service.
I start my training for a bus driver here in Phoenix Tuesday. At the age of 37 finally pulled a plug I should of pulled 8 years ago when I got my CDL. Either way I'm excited!!!
Thank you for taking the time to make this video man. Today is day 1 as a paratransit operator for MV Transportation. You gave me the right info for this son thank you brother
Im from Buffalo, I dont know about the snow especially as we get crazy snowstorms but i always wanted to drive a bus in the rain, call me crazy but it's in my bucket list, on another not i appreciate this channel! One of my best friends is a driver for our NFTA and he has probably the best patience for his job that i ever seen in any driver!
I started off driving for Orange County Transit /OCTA .... I now drive for Keolis in Vegas. I've been driving now for 18 years. I like driving especially the Articulated Buses. It helps to be a people person , it makes your job easier.
Brother I'm just discovering this video. Appreciate your honesty and education. If I would've had this video 38yrs agoI definitely would have stayed with the trucks or the coach. Keep those videos coming.
I’ve been with a huge transit agency in California for the past 10years..And u describe it perfectly !!!! Free entertainment all day while i get paid!! But spot on about seniority!! I had to do extra board for about 6 years until i got my weekends off !!!! Now at 10 years I’m able to get my weekends off and early AM … i love 4am-12
Here in Tampa, HART actually places directional arrows on bus stop signs that are ahead of the route's next turn. I would imagine that likely helps drivers remember where to turn next IMMENSELY...😅😂☺️😁
My biggest pro is being outside and not stuck in a warehouse or office. I'd rather be behind the wheel. Yeah the weather sucks sometimes but bad weather might keep the more crazy people inside that day.
My first day training on the road as a para-transit driver, we actually saw a car rear-end the city bus. I'd been told several times how people are about maneuvering around buses and shuttles but to see it on day one like that 👀 Since I've been out of training, I've seen people do dangerous thoughtless things every day. I'm losing hope in humanity by just being over exposed to them in traffic!
Listen... We're in Philly so a lot of our friends work for SEPTA and we def see our share of crazy motorists, operators, and passengers. Good to see someone from the inside shedding light on this stuff so they don't think we make these stories up lol
Just applied for a job in Kansas City metro area. I'm tired of hauling cooking oil long distances in ice and snow, so hopefully they hire me. I don't mind the snow if I'm within the city, but it's a nightmare on the interstate.
I'm a few days into training and got to drive a transit bus on Saturday (at an abandoned airforce base). The things I thought would be difficult were easy, but the things I thought would be easy are really difficult.
Scott Ziegler Yes! That’s how it was for me at first. I’m glad everything is going well! Good luck with everything in training!! It’s definitely fun..exciting..upsetting..irritating..awful and awesome all in the same day..kinda like a regular work day as a bus driver! Lol
I will never forget this bus I had where my rearview mirror was loose and I had no way to use it. Well I accidentally closed my front door in front of an elderly woman because she wanted to get off the bus the last second and she says to me "you deserve an ass whipping." I done it myself a few times where I made wrong turns or accidentally missed turns on my routes. The passengers will think I was making a detour so I been lucky a few times. This especially happened when I was on the road a few weeks starting and usually I know my way around the city. To those who want to become operators in the future, IT WILL HAPPEN.
For any new operators, I suggest that you should do the routes you have memorized in your head, or any routes that you have rode a lot, that's my suggestion.
You said it well mate, we have seniority at our depos in Melbourne Australia to. I always pick early shifts but everything you say is true especially about the idiots in the cars . They give me more grey hair than my kid did.
Im glad i dont have to check if the passengers pay their fair… in hamburg people board at every door and we dont check the Tickets. Sometimes there will be a random undercover group standing up showing their ID and yelling „everyone show your tickets please- this is a ticket control.“ And if you dont have one, you will get a fine of 60€ (single trip is 2-4€). Thanks for the great video from a german bus driver. I love your videos. 🎉
#1 Thing Bus operator goal is Seniority to make $$$. My advice is live within your means. don't go into debt. Eat / Stay healthy / don't work so much where deprived sleep will cause disease & early death. I learn that when I got on the job & saw so many Bus operators died young or died not long after retirement from Cancer/ heart attack / diabetes etc from working too much to pay bills. again live within your means & save $$$. retired NYCT B/O.
Everything you said is very true. Great video and great editing. I have done public transit for a year now and soon I'll be on the big public transit buses.
Really enjoyed your video! You're telling the truth about bus driving. I am a school bus driver in NoCal. I have a side job driving for a tour bus company. Thanks for your insight and wisdom.
When I was younger, I would take the county transit busses to and from school all the time. One time, I was getting off the bus and a car slammed into the driver's side of the bus. The bus obviously wasn't moving, and it was parked at the stop in the pull-out bay. No idea where the car came from, but it hit the bus with enough force that the back tires of the bus slid toward the curb about a foot or so. Scary stuff.
Been driving 8 years. I totally see the "entertainment." Lady gets out of her chair in the intersection and starts dancing in the road at the red light. I drive city bus. Don't forget the Extra Board. Rotating early, late, etc.
@@BusDriverLife I wanted ask your opinion of the transdev company I'm really considering driving but I want to make the right long term decision. Im in my mid thirties. so I really want to find a good company to retire from. Any input would be greatly appreciated fam.. I'm from Cali but now in phoenix.
I just want to say I thank god for you having made this video bro. I've been doing a lot of research and have been on the fence about this job. It has been stressing me for quiet a while now and I've actually been in the training process for about two weeks now(hating it). This video made me realize that this isn't for me and I will be quitting as of tomorrow. I'm just too entrepreneurial minded. I already work for myself and make more but was only doing this for the stability and benefits. Happiness just isn't worth what they're giving you an hour, at least not for me. Anyways, I appreciate you and god bless brotha, thanks for the clarity. 🙏🏾
I’m currently in the process of becoming a bus driver for LA metro I’m super nervous I’m not sure when I’ll start training but I’m definitely on edge about it thanks for this video very informative
Cool and congratulations!! There are actually some LA metro training videos on TH-cam. Try to search for them..it will give you an idea of what you will be in store for!
Miami Dade County bus transit operator here and let me tell you it has been a zillion ups and downs since I graduated I mean there are days when I tell myself I can't do this but then all other days I say it's not bad. But you're right the more you climb that ladder of seniority the better it gets I still have a long way to go. I enjoy your videos it helps me find the humor side of this insanity
Great video! I’m a city bus operator! You make great points. I love the entertainment video…. It’s so true! But I notice he was able to get a seat… great tactic.
You remind me of my late wife. She drove school buses in San Francisco for 15 years, and then left to drive for AC Transit for another 15 years until her death. I think inhaling diesel fumes for 30 years caused her lung and breast cancer. I used to ride with her on her late-night runs, and she had me rolling in the aisle one night. Some guy got on the bus with some Expensive clothes and Gucci bags, and he asked her if he could ride for free. She said, "Maybe you can sell one of your Gucci bags and get some bus fare." Another time she had to pick up passengers from a bus that had an accident, and the bus was running late. This guy got on at a bus stop ranting and raving that he missed an important appointment. She said, "Sir if your appointment was THAT time-critical, how come you didn't call a cab?" I respect all transit operators. I used to be field transportation manager for Laidlaw Transit, so I know a lot of what you deal with on a daily basis. In Oakland, when my wife had to go on medical leave, she was making about $29 hourly and she worked the board.
Hey!! I have passengers like that all the time..expensive clothes with no bus fare! Lol. So cool that you would ride with your late wife sometimes! I’m sure those are great memories!! Thanks for sharing and thanks for watching!!
Great breakdown of the transit Operator environment. I have called the different cities, jungles, with Richmond, Oakland, then San Francisco being the worst
What model transit bus did you like driving as for myself I am now a cdl 'A' driver when I started driving i had my 'B' license but I did train in school and I trained on a flxible metro transit bus I really enjoyed driving that bus
I work as a city bus driver for Las Vegas. I think this city was the worst out of any other city I’ve worked for, and I’m from Philadelphia 👋😂 But great advice and now I’m ready to go over the road lol
I feel like its similar to fastfood cause you as well service working, its fun sometimes, but you get customers of all kind, some similarties i see oftenly
Wow you actually get to pick routes that's really good, I guess your experienced aren't you. Sometimes you become a well known driver by passengers👊🏿Great Video!
Hahaha on point my brother. Drove transit in a major city for seven years and was always stressed by management and riders. Got cussed out several times for doing my job, when I reported it management there were like ok so what's your problem? 😭 Umm I cussed me out 😥 Ok. Continue in service. It's funny now 😂. Truth about that salary, some operators never went home. 😱 What's that smell? Oh it's the operator but he's making $100,000. 🤣
I’ve been driving a school bus for about a year now and am thinking about changing to a transit bus. I enjoy dealing with adults more and don’t like all the responsibilities for children, though I like a lot of them.
Omggg 😂😂😂I was not expecting the person UNDER the bus! I’m interviewing for a operator position later in the week. Your videos have been insightful; thanks!
Thanks Keywan! I'm about to get hired by LTD here in Eugene Oregon (God willing). I think I'm cut out for this job! I drove taxi in this town for a spell and have encountered all of those cons (and pros). Great video, helpful and encouraging for me!
I used to drive for C-TRAN. Probably one of the best jobs I ever had. I knew all the local gossip whether I wanted it or not. Pay was good and the benefits were great. I really preferred long routes with few stops or would work late at night or early in the morning. That job made me stop being antisocial and hating people.
Riding public transportation, you see more comedy on them more than the TV. Sometimes I can't help but laugh even tho some of them are not funny. At least you don't have to drive buses in the snow up there in California.
I quit my consulting job because too much office politics, now I joined the ranks of my fellow bus drivers for 6 years now. I couldn't be happier with my career change. Sure I can't make as much as before, but I get paid to run route services and stuck in traffic. Less stress which keeps me happy. If can put up with rude passengers and idiot drivers on the road...then you can handle this job.
I’m from England you are right, the job is great. The people part is not hard for me, human are not perfect so I expect a bit a drama sometimes. I drive in the City of London. Checkout my channel if you want too.
Already made up my mind I'm doing it, I mean I love driving even if it's the same route everyday I'm cool with that. I Do find your videos hilarious 😂 though so I'm watching this.
To Give people prospective when I started being a bus driver training was 10 ph then once in revenue got bumped to 14 ph. Then the government and contractor negotiated a pay increase across the board. Year later got bumped to 18 ph plus my annual raises. Then last year 2021 After not one strike but three strikes with the Teamsters union against our Contractor we got to keep our healthcare, scheduling, even better wages and retirement. Our government and contractor were trying to break the union. Did not end well for them as we the Teamsters won. Currently our salary soft cap is 26.62 ph in two more years will 29ish. To think CDL drivers are worth 10 ph is crazy. I surely would have quit then but stuck it out. BDL is right you pay your dues meaning put your time in and you get a better deal. I now get what they call a 4n40. Fours days driving and 3 days off. Plus you can choose what days off you want. Overtime is always there but Keolis tries to keep it from you. People bashing unions were either in a bad one or not one at all. First union job and God willing will be my last job and retire from driving. Downsides? Plenty. People not having fare ready or asking for a free ride which I get at least 3 a day. First two occurrences I let em ride. You want to let em ride for free as it allows you to keep your paddle (routes) or block on time. I read body language and third time nope start pounding pavement (usually still let em ride). Now as I mentioned you need to read body language or vibe the person is putting off. It is how hard you want to make your job, is it pride over safety? Allowing free rides is easier but almost every free ride 90 percent of the time start a fight or cause some form of disturbance. My regulars know I won't hesitate to call law enforcement to have someone removed. I don't just boot anyone off a bus I look at all variables of the situation, driver and passenger safety comes first. Last thing I want is getting stabbed or punched. We have had drivers get punched, slapped, or spit on for NO reason. So you can be the nice guy/gal and still have bad stuff happen. I definitely wouldn't do the above in a larger city like LA or Sacramento. Safety first, always just have to way the situation. If you like helping people, making a decent wage with decent benefits and driving become a bus driver. No job is perfect. It is the best job I have ever had. My post is little long sorry but just sharing my thoughts.
A long time ago I was a summer relief bus operator for the CTA driving south on Michigan Ave when a passenger asked if I stopped at Saks 5th Ave. I knew there was no such street and must have had a dopey look on my face. Fortunately a passenger behind her looked at me and nodded yes. I told the lady yes, and as I scanned the street ahead looking for the sign, I saw the store Saks Fifth Ave ahead. I proudly announced the Saks Fifth Ave stop, and made sure to thank the other passenger for helping me.
You need to get your passengers endorsement for class B if you want to be a transit operator. You usually do not have to take the air brakes test again if you have it but that may depend on the state and the company.
I have 23 and a half years of commercial driving and it's a fact that if someone's spazzing out on you they have mental problems someone in a perfectly decent mental state does not wish Stefan you there's people out here in every city with mental problems there's a big mental health issue going on and United States
@Bus Driver Life, Great Video Dude! I’m in the early process of getting me a job with the Public Transportation here in Nashville, Tennessee. Called WeGo! Been watching your videos the last couple of weeks. Pretty entertaining and informative! Stay Safe, Brother! 😎
That’s awesome! I’m glad the videos are helpful!! Nashville is a beautiful place..I’ve visited there a few times over the years! Good luck with everything!!
I've made a wrong turn in a school bus before. (A lot of the streets are missing their street name signs, or they've been bleached by the sun) Sometimes I get rude remarks like, "you know where you're going?!" Sometimes I get jokes like, "we're not being kidnapped, are we?" (Which made me feel uncomfortable) Sometimes they laugh at me like "Ha-ha-ha-ha, we're in a gas station!" Or they'll say things like "this is so weird." In some towns, I stopped relying on street name signs and started using land marks.
Transit driver for 6 years here. You described the job perfectly. Everything this man said is 100% true.
I quit a high ranking job in the health industry here in South Australia. Mental health people. Suicides. Pain people. Drug addicts, you name it. So I grabbed a job on the buses. Same people, different responsibility. Instead of treating them, I just had to get them to their treatment on time. So cool. And you, my mate, make great videos which I love watching. Stay safe on the road, buddy. Drive on.
Thanks so much for watching!! I’m sure your experience dealing with mental health people helps dealing with some of the passengers! You stay safe as well out there!!
@@BusDriverLife Thank you!!
Sorry you had to quit your job but hope you like your new job better. You know I'm not a guy, right? lol Thanks for the compliment on my videos; I'm much obliged my friend!
@@LisaS1 What? I've never seen any of your videos, let alone complimented them.
Not much difference in occupations.
If you are new to this channel, I think you will find Kewan's combination of story telling, humor and life lessons are captivating. For me, another PRO is the great satisfaction maneuvering this ~40' long behemoth in and out among the incompetent, self-centered and impaired drivers and pedestrians. It was the closest to being a jumbo jet pilot I would ever be. 🙏🤲🕊🤗
Thanks Donald!
I did 20 years behind the wheel. I love the clips you put into this video. You covered this topic very well. Hell you should be a trainer
I appreciate that!!
@@BusDriverLife can a 18-year-old drive a Gillig bus
@@ronnierichardson3469 If you drive for a bus company that hires 18yr olds and has Gillig buses in their fleet..yes! There are quite a few colleges that hire at 18 to operate the campus buses.
@@ronnierichardson3469 yes
Your helping me make a big decision. Been with UPS for 21 years. I’m getting fed up.
Plus delivering pkgs in cold Montreal weather is not getting easier.
Your videos are great dude thanks!
I don't know if you've changed jobs since this comment, but I can attest to the greatness of operating city transit buses. It's proved to be a great career for people who come from high-stress jobs because (as in my case) it's very low-stress and pays very very similar to what some higher-level careers make. I don't know what you make currently with UPS, but the transit system I work in, we can earn up to (if memory serves) right around $150k (US) annually. Yes, that does mean a lot of hours, but those of us who make $100k + per year don't even consider the job work.
@FarBear-by6rw Yes. I forgot to add, it depends on which company you work for, as well as which city you’re in.
My father was an operator for 43 years and I had interest in doing it he told Me HELLLLLLLL NO! so I ended up going to transit maintenance mechanic that's the job to go to!
Great video. I've been a career bus driver all my life. But I give hats off to transit drivers above all. Personally, I can't handle the stress of it. I drive charter bus and intercity buses which are a totally different animal. Typically we pick up a group of happy people going somewhere fun or interesting. When we arrive at the destination, in many cases we get to simply wait for them to complete their respective activities and then drive them back to the point of origin. This means being on the clock for hours just enjoying the downtime. Often at the end of the trip you get a nice gratuity as well. And if taking a group out of town for a few days your meals and hotels are covered as well. Sure the benefits aren't as good as transit but for me it's about what each day consists of. Dealing with stopping every few blocks, fare disputes, homeless troublesome passengers, loading and unloading ADA passengers all day long while trying to maintain a tight schedule.... I just can't man.
Interesting. I’ve always thought charter and intercity bus would be worse because you’re stuck with the troublemakers. At least as a transit bus driver, I know that person will be getting off at some point or I can just call for the transit police to deal with them.
I operate transit buses in a large metropolitan area on the West Coast, and what's interesting is how many of my co-workers, as well as myself, gave up other careers (often times high-level careers) to become transit bus operators. So we aren't a bunch of dumb losers like many people choose to think we are. Anyway, here is how I deal with the "cons" of the job: *"I remember I'm being paid by the minute."* At the top wage, we earn $36 an hour. If it's overtime, we're making about $54/hr. So when some dumb yokel decides to pitch a fit and stand in front of my bus for an hour, two hours, 10 hours, a day, a week, a month, a year... *I'm being paid by the minute* to sit there, pull out my Cheeto's & Coke, catch up on reading, pull out my phone and browse Amazon, maybe file my nails - *whatever.* When you keep things in perspective, you can turn a lot of cons into pros, and the job becomes total cake. Same is true in the ice and snow. We have a lot of hills in the metro area. So when it snows, if it's not safe to keep the bus rolling, ya pull over, set the air brake, summon dispatch, and then sit and occupy yourself with any of the aforementioned activities until dispatch calls. I love snow, because that means I have no schedule to keep up with. Often times, snow means no passengers either, and at that point, you're being paid to take a pretty drive.
Then there's our Extraboard Operators. If your seniority is low, the Extraboard is the place to be. It has its cons too, but those can be turned into pros very easily if you keep the right mindset. When I did EB, I would trade into shifts which required me to call the Station Agent by 10 AM the next day. They would tell me I had a 2pm report (or whatever), and that meant arriving to work in-uniform, and sitting down in the report area, waiting until my name is called. Most people I talk to have this mindset of, "I can't just sit! I need to be working and DOING something!" For me, the mindset was, "I'm sitting here getting paid the same exact wage as everybody else whose at top wage (most likely I'm even on overtime) to not have to worry about accidents or assaults, or complaints, or red lights, or tickets, or unruly passengers, etc. INSTEAD, my employer is paying me to sit here and read a book, browse Amazon, Wayfair, Craigslist - what have you, chit chat and yuk it up with coworkers, then maybe order some barbecue takeout, watch a murder mystery on TV (we have cable), take a quick snooze, and then be called up to the Station Agent's booth and told to go home. *HELLOOOO.* Actually get paid to have a day of zero stress? How could anyone say no to that??? 😂
I just retired from the T in Boston MA. I drove a bus for twenty four years. Your video pretty much says it all. Passenger relations was the most difficult. People hold the driver responsible for situations he/she has no control over such as traffic conditions and weather. It was not uncommon to be cursed at and harassed because the bus was late, cold or hot. Passengers would fight with each other. I can't count how many times I had to pull over and call the police. I've had people urinate and defalcate, expose themselves. There were times when the job can be quite dangerous. I'm thankful now that I am retired and can collect my pension and put all of that behind me. Hang in there and good luck.
I definitely feel your pain brother. I'm almost there man
I have 38yrs behind this wheel and believe the conditions are worsening for us operators drastically. Enjoy your retirement brother I've got nine more years to go .
What country were you the driver in where that nasty stuff is happening. Passengers here are pretty laid back; they don't cause any problems. And they treat the bus drivers very nice.
@@LisaS1 Boston, Massachusetts USA
Yup. Dealing with people who are displeased with their station in life and need someone to blame.
I’ve got 24 years driving in June of this year for public Transportation in Denver I’d like to do 6 more years and get 30 however it’s getting harder and harder to drive with unpredictable passengers and reckless drivers on the roads. So I might retire early in 2 more years when I turn 50 with 26 years of service.
I start my training for a bus driver here in Phoenix Tuesday. At the age of 37 finally pulled a plug I should of pulled 8 years ago when I got my CDL. Either way I'm excited!!!
@@TheGreatSimulator what’s the hourly starting or salary pay 💰?
Thank you for taking the time to make this video man. Today is day 1 as a paratransit operator for MV Transportation. You gave me the right info for this son thank you brother
Thank you so much and I hope you have a pleasant journey as you are now a paratransit operator!
Im from Buffalo, I dont know about the snow especially as we get crazy snowstorms but i always wanted to drive a bus in the rain, call me crazy but it's in my bucket list, on another not i appreciate this channel! One of my best friends is a driver for our NFTA and he has probably the best patience for his job that i ever seen in any driver!
I started off driving for Orange County Transit /OCTA .... I now drive for Keolis in Vegas. I've been driving now for 18 years. I like driving especially the Articulated Buses. It helps to be a people person , it makes your job easier.
Is training difficult? @ann999
OCTA loves to fire people.
I recently got my class b license. First career I actually enjoy! ❤️
That’s awesome!
Pro ...sitting down
how yo it feeling about it now 😁
Any career update?
@@godgreat1373 he's quit 😬😬
Brother I'm just discovering this video. Appreciate your honesty and education. If I would've had this video 38yrs agoI definitely would have stayed with the trucks or the coach. Keep those videos coming.
I appreciate that!
This video really helps! Thank you for taking the time to tell us what really is to be expected. God bless!❤😇☦️
You’re welcome!!!
I’ve been with a huge transit agency in California for the past 10years..And u describe it perfectly !!!! Free entertainment all day while i get paid!! But spot on about seniority!! I had to do extra board for about 6 years until i got my weekends off !!!! Now at 10 years I’m able to get my weekends off and early AM … i love 4am-12
Here in Tampa, HART actually places directional arrows on bus stop signs that are ahead of the route's next turn.
I would imagine that likely helps drivers remember where to turn next IMMENSELY...😅😂☺️😁
That would be helpful!
My biggest pro is being outside and not stuck in a warehouse or office. I'd rather be behind the wheel. Yeah the weather sucks sometimes but bad weather might keep the more crazy people inside that day.
I agree!
My first day training on the road as a para-transit driver, we actually saw a car rear-end the city bus. I'd been told several times how people are about maneuvering around buses and shuttles but to see it on day one like that 👀
Since I've been out of training, I've seen people do dangerous thoughtless things every day. I'm losing hope in humanity by just being over exposed to them in traffic!
Yes it gets really bad! I’m still shocked sometimes at how reckless some people drive their cars around buses.
That's nothing I had a co worker cut me off in my own bus!!!
I was all like 🤦🏻♂️ really..? My own co worker done cut me off.. ope shame on the mess
I was told a long time ago by a bus driver
That it's the R&R rule
Race it or Ride it.
No one wants to follow it.
Listen...
We're in Philly so a lot of our friends work for SEPTA and we def see our share of crazy motorists, operators, and passengers.
Good to see someone from the inside shedding light on this stuff so they don't think we make these stories up lol
Just applied for a job in Kansas City metro area. I'm tired of hauling cooking oil long distances in ice and snow, so hopefully they hire me. I don't mind the snow if I'm within the city, but it's a nightmare on the interstate.
I'm a few days into training and got to drive a transit bus on Saturday (at an abandoned airforce base). The things I thought would be difficult were easy, but the things I thought would be easy are really difficult.
Scott Ziegler Yes! That’s how it was for me at first. I’m glad everything is going well! Good luck with everything in training!! It’s definitely fun..exciting..upsetting..irritating..awful and awesome all in the same day..kinda like a regular work day as a bus driver! Lol
@@BusDriverLife Yep, that's exacty how it's been. I passed my driver's test today and got my CDL.
@@scottziegler4238 Congratulations!!!
Looks like I made it about a month. I'm not ready to be out on my own, but they're throwing me out there anyway with 16 plus hour days.
How did you go by getting your class b license
I will never forget this bus I had where my rearview mirror was loose and I had no way to use it. Well I accidentally closed my front door in front of an elderly woman because she wanted to get off the bus the last second and she says to me "you deserve an ass whipping."
I done it myself a few times where I made wrong turns or accidentally missed turns on my routes. The passengers will think I was making a detour so I been lucky a few times. This especially happened when I was on the road a few weeks starting and usually I know my way around the city. To those who want to become operators in the future, IT WILL HAPPEN.
Yup..stuff definitely happens!!
As a mobility bus operator, you touched on a lot of points that I deal with!! You make good videos. Keep them coming.
Thanks!!! I appreciate that!!
Crazy Los Angeles drivers #1 Con. It's ridiculously bad but I love the freedom of not being supervised and working with coworkers. Go Metro 🚌
For any new operators, I suggest that you should do the routes you have memorized in your head, or any routes that you have rode a lot, that's my suggestion.
Yay I enjoy driving and love people. I start training next week 👍
You said it well mate, we have seniority at our depos in Melbourne Australia to. I always pick early shifts but everything you say is true especially about the idiots in the cars . They give me more grey hair than my kid did.
I was thinking to apply a job as transit bus driver before I saw your video; its not for me man! thanks a million for saving my time.
Im glad i dont have to check if the passengers pay their fair… in hamburg people board at every door and we dont check the Tickets. Sometimes there will be a random undercover group standing up showing their ID and yelling „everyone show your tickets please- this is a ticket control.“ And if you dont have one, you will get a fine of 60€ (single trip is 2-4€).
Thanks for the great video from a german bus driver. I love your videos. 🎉
This video is straight to the point. Love it
Thank you!
#1 Thing Bus operator goal is Seniority to make $$$. My advice is live within your means. don't go into debt. Eat / Stay healthy / don't work so much where deprived sleep will cause disease & early death. I learn that when I got on the job & saw so many Bus operators died young or died not long after retirement from Cancer/ heart attack / diabetes etc from working too much to pay bills. again live within your means & save $$$. retired NYCT B/O.
Awesome video thanks for sharing. You covered alot of good pros and cons about being a bus driver ❤😊
This is such a great resource. I just started driving for the bus line in Flagstaff, AZ. Thx for all yer suggestions. Again, you rock. SW
Thank you!!
saw your video late but it still made my night. God bless!
Thanks for watching! God bless you too!
I’m a tourist bus driver. MCI operator. Love my job. Got my bud license at age 20, I’m 35 now still driving bus
Man, I stumbled on this video because I'm on a long bus ride and got bored. I'm impressed! Nicely done, enjoyed watching
Wow! Thank you!!
Everything you said is very true. Great video and great editing. I have done public transit for a year now and soon I'll be on the big public transit buses.
That’s cool!! Thanks for watching!!
Really enjoyed your video! You're telling the truth about bus driving. I am a school bus driver in NoCal. I have a side job driving for a tour bus company. Thanks for your insight and wisdom.
Thank you for watching and I definitely appreciate you!
When I was younger, I would take the county transit busses to and from school all the time. One time, I was getting off the bus and a car slammed into the driver's side of the bus. The bus obviously wasn't moving, and it was parked at the stop in the pull-out bay. No idea where the car came from, but it hit the bus with enough force that the back tires of the bus slid toward the curb about a foot or so. Scary stuff.
Great, Entertaining and Imformative video.
Thanks 😊 I needed to see this.
Been driving 8 years. I totally see the "entertainment." Lady gets out of her chair in the intersection and starts dancing in the road at the red light. I drive city bus. Don't forget the Extra Board. Rotating early, late, etc.
Hey bro I'm loving the content. Really appreciate you being honest and upfront.
Thanks! I appreciate you watching!! I need to do an updated version of this video soon!
@@BusDriverLife I wanted ask your opinion of the transdev company I'm really considering driving but I want to make the right long term decision. Im in my mid thirties. so I really want to find a good company to retire from. Any input would be greatly appreciated fam.. I'm from Cali but now in phoenix.
I just want to say I thank god for you having made this video bro. I've been doing a lot of research and have been on the fence about this job. It has been stressing me for quiet a while now and I've actually been in the training process for about two weeks now(hating it). This video made me realize that this isn't for me and I will be quitting as of tomorrow.
I'm just too entrepreneurial minded. I already work for myself and make more but was only doing this for the stability and benefits. Happiness just isn't worth what they're giving you an hour, at least not for me. Anyways, I appreciate you and god bless brotha, thanks for the clarity. 🙏🏾
I’m glad the video was helpful!
You forgot the worst con of all tracking systems and video camera's and talking buses I miss the days when we had none of that
I wish they'd get ride of the exceedingly loud talking buses.
CAUTION
BUS IS TURNING!
Dammit STFU 😂
@@LisaS1 our buses Talk In South Carolina. And they say"please have your bus fare ready before boarding the bus"
I’m currently in the process of becoming a bus driver for LA metro I’m super nervous I’m not sure when I’ll start training but I’m definitely on edge about it thanks for this video very informative
Cool and congratulations!! There are actually some LA metro training videos on TH-cam. Try to search for them..it will give you an idea of what you will be in store for!
Here’s the link
th-cam.com/video/RNwf_cl112s/w-d-xo.html
Ok thank you!!! I’ll check that out now
How’s it going w la metro
Be careful L.A. MTA is dangerous. People shoot at those buses.
Miami Dade County bus transit operator here and let me tell you it has been a zillion ups and downs since I graduated I mean there are days when I tell myself I can't do this but then all other days I say it's not bad. But you're right the more you climb that ladder of seniority the better it gets I still have a long way to go. I enjoy your videos it helps me find the humor side of this insanity
Hey!! Glad you’re enjoying the videos! Hang in there!!
I’m thinking about going to Dade. Been in Broward for 8 years and I hear they treat you so much better there.
Great video! I’m a city bus operator! You make great points. I love the entertainment video…. It’s so true! But I notice he was able to get a seat… great tactic.
Thanks for watching!! He did get a seat..lol!
You remind me of my late wife. She drove school buses in San Francisco for 15 years, and then left to drive for AC Transit for another 15 years until her death. I think inhaling diesel fumes for 30 years caused her lung and breast cancer. I used to ride with her on her late-night runs, and she had me rolling in the aisle one night. Some guy got on the bus with some Expensive clothes and Gucci bags, and he asked her if he could ride for free. She said, "Maybe you can sell one of your Gucci bags and get some bus fare." Another time she had to pick up passengers from a bus that had an accident, and the bus was running late. This guy got on at a bus stop ranting and raving that he missed an important appointment. She said, "Sir if your appointment was THAT time-critical, how come you didn't call a cab?" I respect all transit operators. I used to be field transportation manager for Laidlaw Transit, so I know a lot of what you deal with on a daily basis. In Oakland, when my wife had to go on medical leave, she was making about $29 hourly and she worked the board.
Hey!! I have passengers like that all the time..expensive clothes with no bus fare! Lol. So cool that you would ride with your late wife sometimes! I’m sure those are great memories!! Thanks for sharing and thanks for watching!!
I’d do this if they didn’t have seniority.
Im trying to get the easy route with no passengers basically no nights, no weekends. 9-5pm.
Dude! You need to be in stand up. Easy and funny to listen to. Good on camera.
I appreciate that!!
Omg I’m in Az an drive all is rght on spot. The best video 😂great job.
Thank you!!
Great breakdown of the transit Operator environment. I have called the different cities, jungles, with Richmond, Oakland, then San Francisco being the worst
@6:23 That has to be Watt Ave.! 😆 Correct me if I’m wrong please.
You are correct!!
10 years of transit bus operator the seniority kicking in 😎
What model transit bus did you like driving as for myself I am now a cdl 'A' driver when I started driving i had my 'B' license but I did train in school and I trained on a flxible metro transit bus I really enjoyed driving that bus
Thank goodness that you don't have to drive in snow up there in the state of California driving for SACRT. You just deal with a lot of heavy rains.
The heavy rain and winds are actually challenging to deal with..but I’ll still take it over snow.
I work as a city bus driver for Las Vegas. I think this city was the worst out of any other city I’ve worked for, and I’m from Philadelphia 👋😂 But great advice and now I’m ready to go over the road lol
I'm also a bus driver and I approve of this message.
I feel like its similar to fastfood cause you as well service working, its fun sometimes, but you get customers of all kind, some similarties i see oftenly
Cost of living area informative all that come from experience knowledge great videos
Wow you actually get to pick routes that's really good, I guess your experienced aren't you. Sometimes you become a well known driver by passengers👊🏿Great Video!
I’m definitely not high seniority yet but I do have decent options to choose from.
Hahaha on point my brother. Drove transit in a major city for seven years and was always stressed by management and riders. Got cussed out several times for doing my job, when I reported it management there were like ok so what's your problem? 😭 Umm I cussed me out 😥 Ok. Continue in service. It's funny now 😂. Truth about that salary, some operators never went home. 😱 What's that smell? Oh it's the operator but he's making $100,000. 🤣
I have been in transit for 2 years. Guy yelled at me cause he missed hi connection. It was a bad weather day and I have to drive extra careful.
Yup some people don’t care!
I’ve been driving a school bus for about a year now and am thinking about changing to a transit bus. I enjoy dealing with adults more and don’t like all the responsibilities for children, though I like a lot of them.
Omggg 😂😂😂I was not expecting the person UNDER the bus! I’m interviewing for a operator position later in the week. Your videos have been insightful; thanks!
I’m glad they are helpful!!
Thanks Keywan! I'm about to get hired by LTD here in Eugene Oregon (God willing). I think I'm cut out for this job! I drove taxi in this town for a spell and have encountered all of those cons (and pros). Great video, helpful and encouraging for me!
Congratulations!! I’m glad the video helped!!
I used to drive for C-TRAN. Probably one of the best jobs I ever had. I knew all the local gossip whether I wanted it or not. Pay was good and the benefits were great. I really preferred long routes with few stops or would work late at night or early in the morning. That job made me stop being antisocial and hating people.
C-Tran in Washington that goes to North Park Portland?
Riding public transportation, you see more comedy on them more than the TV. Sometimes I can't help but laugh even tho some of them are not funny. At least you don't have to drive buses in the snow up there in California.
He ain't lying!
I quit my consulting job because too much office politics, now I joined the ranks of my fellow bus drivers for 6 years now. I couldn't be happier with my career change. Sure I can't make as much as before, but I get paid to run route services and stuck in traffic. Less stress which keeps me happy. If can put up with rude passengers and idiot drivers on the road...then you can handle this job.
I’m currently going through a background check and kinda nervous as I’m gonna be a new bus driver.
@@Avalon491 Good luck and best wishes! Hope you like this job.
I’m from England you are right, the job is great. The people part is not hard for me, human are not perfect so I expect a bit a drama sometimes. I drive in the City of London. Checkout my channel if you want too.
Already made up my mind I'm doing it, I mean I love driving even if it's the same route everyday I'm cool with that. I Do find your videos hilarious 😂 though so I'm watching this.
To Give people prospective when I started being a bus driver training was 10 ph then once in revenue got bumped to 14 ph. Then the government and contractor negotiated a pay increase across the board. Year later got bumped to 18 ph plus my annual raises. Then last year 2021 After not one strike but three strikes with the Teamsters union against our Contractor we got to keep our healthcare, scheduling, even better wages and retirement. Our government and contractor were trying to break the union. Did not end well for them as we the Teamsters won. Currently our salary soft cap is 26.62 ph in two more years will 29ish. To think CDL drivers are worth 10 ph is crazy. I surely would have quit then but stuck it out. BDL is right you pay your dues meaning put your time in and you get a better deal. I now get what they call a 4n40. Fours days driving and 3 days off. Plus you can choose what days off you want. Overtime is always there but Keolis tries to keep it from you. People bashing unions were either in a bad one or not one at all. First union job and God willing will be my last job and retire from driving.
Downsides? Plenty. People not having fare ready or asking for a free ride which I get at least 3 a day. First two occurrences I let em ride. You want to let em ride for free as it allows you to keep your paddle (routes) or block on time. I read body language and third time nope start pounding pavement (usually still let em ride). Now as I mentioned you need to read body language or vibe the person is putting off. It is how hard you want to make your job, is it pride over safety? Allowing free rides is easier but almost every free ride 90 percent of the time start a fight or cause some form of disturbance. My regulars know I won't hesitate to call law enforcement to have someone removed. I don't just boot anyone off a bus I look at all variables of the situation, driver and passenger safety comes first. Last thing I want is getting stabbed or punched. We have had drivers get punched, slapped, or spit on for NO reason. So you can be the nice guy/gal and still have bad stuff happen. I definitely wouldn't do the above in a larger city like LA or Sacramento. Safety first, always just have to way the situation.
If you like helping people, making a decent wage with decent benefits and driving become a bus driver. No job is perfect. It is the best job I have ever had. My post is little long sorry but just sharing my thoughts.
City bus drivers face a different kind of crazy than Greyhound drivers. The Hound sucks these days but I'd drive for them any day over the city boys.
I watch that guys TH-cam lol 2:38 hrs that French guy and he dances and does this crazy things on city buses lol
He’s *
Great video BTW !!!! :)
@@toshinotakiyami Thanks! I’m gonna have to search and watch more of his videos lol
How do you know the route do they have like a gps? Or something
Started my hiring process. Hope to start the training soon bro
Another con is if you first start, your days off will be split up instead of being together.
Brilliant video, im now terrified to start in Dublin bus school ,my theory is today and i hope i pass😅
A long time ago I was a summer relief bus operator for the CTA driving south on Michigan Ave when a passenger asked if I stopped at Saks 5th Ave. I knew there was no such street and must have had a dopey look on my face. Fortunately a passenger behind her looked at me and nodded yes. I told the lady yes, and as I scanned the street ahead looking for the sign, I saw the store Saks Fifth Ave ahead. I proudly announced the Saks Fifth Ave stop, and made sure to thank the other passenger for helping me.
City bus drivers in Seattle are the entertaining ones....like running red lights, failure to yield, etc. I have dropped a dime on all of them.
Just got hired to drive city bus in OH
@@juliusgayle Congratulations!
@ thank you sir!
My luck with having a car is bad I take the city bus every I go in Milwaukee Wisconsin even when I go to work at Marquette university
Uhh did anyone else laughed at 4:23. Like Really that's was funny. What better way to take your anger out on a computer 😂😜😜😜😜😉
Hello , Question i have my class A licence, will i still be required to do the air breaks test?
You need to get your passengers endorsement for class B if you want to be a transit operator. You usually do not have to take the air brakes test again if you have it but that may depend on the state and the company.
I have 23 and a half years of commercial driving and it's a fact that if someone's spazzing out on you they have mental problems someone in a perfectly decent mental state does not wish Stefan you there's people out here in every city with mental problems there's a big mental health issue going on and United States
That snapping dude was for LACMTA I think
Thank you for this video and I just subscribed, I am strongly considering doing this job.
Nice!! Thank you for watching!! I need to do an updated version of this!!
Don't like collecting fares?come to Tempe Arizona most of our fare boxes don't work and the company will not repair them.
How long you been on the job? I hated it after a year
@Bus Driver Life, Great Video Dude! I’m in the early process of getting me a job with the Public Transportation here in Nashville, Tennessee. Called WeGo! Been watching your videos the last couple of weeks. Pretty entertaining and informative! Stay Safe, Brother! 😎
That’s awesome! I’m glad the videos are helpful!! Nashville is a beautiful place..I’ve visited there a few times over the years! Good luck with everything!!
Good video my man shout out to you from Valley Metro 1st transit Phx.AZ...
Thanks!!!
From WI to Cali. I’m also from WI and thinking about driving the metro. What made you move to Cali bro?
Nice video keep it up Keywan bro I love your video I want to be a bus driver in London nice video keep it up and don't give up Keywan bro
Thaanks for your videos!! I'll be a bus driver soon 👍
You’re welcome and that’s awesome!
I've made a wrong turn in a school bus before. (A lot of the streets are missing their street name signs, or they've been bleached by the sun)
Sometimes I get rude remarks like, "you know where you're going?!"
Sometimes I get jokes like, "we're not being kidnapped, are we?" (Which made me feel uncomfortable)
Sometimes they laugh at me like "Ha-ha-ha-ha, we're in a gas station!" Or they'll say things like "this is so weird."
In some towns, I stopped relying on street name signs and started using land marks.
Hey man,how about bus mechanic life? Ive been one since 1984,😅 I,m ready to retire though.
Great video bro, personally a Com for me is being a newbie bus driver and having to be a YES man to get work while working with the counter officers.
Nice video Keywan
Thanks!!