Driver
Drivers move people or goods from place to place, including delivery, shuttle, courier, school bus and commercial truck driving.
What does a driver do?
Drivers transport passengers or packages safely and on time. Roles range from local delivery and courier work to shuttle, paratransit, school bus and long-haul trucking. Many local driving jobs offer part-time or split shifts, which can suit retirees. Larger vehicles and passenger vehicles often require a commercial driver's license (CDL).
Typical responsibilities
- Drive assigned routes safely and on schedule
- Load, unload and deliver packages, or assist passengers
- Inspect the vehicle before and after trips
- Keep delivery records or logs
- Communicate with dispatch and customers
- Follow traffic laws and company safety rules
Skills and qualifications
Useful skills
- Safe, defensive driving
- Navigation and time management
- Customer courtesy
- Basic recordkeeping, often on a handheld device or phone
- Patience in traffic and with passengers
Common qualifications
- A valid driver's license and a clean driving record
- A commercial driver's license (CDL) for many larger vehicles and buses; CDL testing is handled by each state
- CDL holders must meet federal medical standards and pass a DOT physical
- Background checks are common, especially for school bus and passenger roles
Working conditions
- Where the work happens
- On the road in vans, cars, buses or trucks. Schedules can include early mornings, evenings, weekends and holidays. Long-haul trucking means extended time away from home.
- Physical demands
- Long periods of sitting while driving. Delivery roles often involve repeated lifting, carrying and climbing in and out of the vehicle.
- Remote work
- Rare. Most of this work is done in person.
- Part-time work
- Common. Many listings offer it. Part-time driving jobs
- Pay
- Pay varies by employer and location, and we don't estimate it. Current listings that state pay show it on each job. For national figures, see the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (opens in a new tab).
How to get started
- Decide what kind of driving fits you: passenger work (shuttle, paratransit, school bus), local delivery, or commercial trucking.
- Check your driving record and renew any license that is close to expiring.
- If the role requires a CDL, look at training programs and your state's licensing steps; requirements vary by state and federal entry-level training rules apply.
- Ask about the physical side of the job, such as lifting limits, before applying.
- Look at local transit agencies, school districts, senior centers and medical transport providers, which often hire part-time drivers.
Experience that transfers
- Military service: Many veterans have experience operating vehicles under strict safety procedures.
- Sales with a territory: Years of daily driving, route planning and customer contact carry over.
- Retail or warehouse work: Handling packages and inventory is part of most delivery roles.
- Teaching or childcare: Patience and responsibility for others help in school bus and passenger roles.
Frequently asked questions
Is there an upper age limit for driving jobs?
Federal law does not set a maximum age for driving jobs. Commercial drivers must pass periodic DOT medical exams, and employers set their own safety standards that apply to all drivers. Under the ADEA, employers with 20 or more employees generally cannot reject you simply because of age.
Can I drive part-time after retiring?
Yes, part-time driving is common. Shuttle services, school districts, car dealerships, medical transport providers and local delivery services often hire for part-time or split shifts. Ask about the schedule, the vehicle and any lifting before you accept.
Do I need a CDL?
It depends on the vehicle. Many car and van delivery jobs need only a regular license. Larger trucks, many buses and vehicles carrying certain numbers of passengers or hazardous materials require a CDL. Your state's motor vehicle agency explains the steps and requirements vary by state.