Your Chicago trip is planned. Your transportation is booked. You’re ready to hit the road.

Who exactly is handling the road though? You can’t operate a charter bus rental on Chicago’s busy streets.

Don’t sweat it.

When you rent with Chicago Charter Bus Company, you’ll not only be booking a bus rental but also reserving the services of a professional driver. We directly partner with Chicago charter bus providers and professional drivers with experience servicing all types of group transportation needs. Wherever your travels take you in Chicago and whatever your travel occasion may be, you’ll have a certified driver experienced in handling everything from Chicago corporate shuttle services to school field trip transportation around the city.

Keep on reading to learn more about how we vet drivers, their qualifications, and additional information you may need to know before embarking on your trip!

close up of a bus driver's hands on the wheel

Your Charter Bus Driver’s Qualifications

At Chicago Charter Bus Company, we value passenger safety above all else. This means we thoroughly vet transportation partners and drivers before assigning trips in our network. Every driver is required to have a valid CDL license as well as provide or pass the following requirements:

  • Clear a thorough background check
  • Have current training with additional performance exams
  • Pass a drug test and alcohol screening
  • Pass a physical exam, including vision and hearing

In addition to the safety requirements of operating a charter bus, we also prioritize working with drivers who care about top-quality service! This includes your driver being kind, courteous, reliable, timely, and knowledgeable of the Chicago metro area. Whether you’re traveling around the heart of the Windy City, chartering a bus around Naperville, or shuttling to Joliet for a private event, you’ll have a driver committed to safety and customer service every step of the way.

Additional Information About Your Bus Driver

If it’s your first time renting a charter bus, there’s a good chance you have questions about your driver and common courtesies onboard. Here are some answers to frequently asked questions about charter bus drivers.

Where will I meet my driver at the start of my trip?

Your Chicago Charter Bus Company rental representative will help coordinate pickup and drop-off locations with you and your driver. On the day of your trip, you’ll be put in contact with your driver in case of any last-minute changes. Your driver will be instructed to arrive at least 15 minutes before the scheduled start of your trip.

Can my bus driver help load luggage or equipment?

If you’re booking a private shuttle bus rental in Chicago and you’re headed to and from the airport, you’ll likely have heavy luggage. Your charter bus drivers can assist you in handling luggage and properly storing it on the bus. Heavy, expensive equipment may be a loading liability for your driver. Be sure to notify your rental representative in advance if you plan to travel with this type of equipment or luggage.

How often does my bus driver need to rest?

Per federal law, all charter bus drivers are required to rest for at least 8 hours for every 10 hours of driving or every 15 hours of off-duty work. Groups traveling long distances and for multi-day trips should plan accordingly.

Do I need to book lodging for my charter bus driver?

Yes, any overnight trip will require you to book lodging for your charter bus driver and pay to park your rental (if paid parking applies on your trip.) It’s recommended that you book your driver a comfortable accommodation to ensure they are well rested and can focus on the roads.

Do I need to buy my charter bus driver food and drinks?

You’re not required to pay for your driver’s food. Though, refreshments like snacks and water will always be appreciated.

Should I tip my driver at the end of my trip?

Tipping your driver at the end of your trip is highly recommended and is a wonderful way to thank them for their work. At the end of your trip, consider giving them a cash tip equal to 5-10% of the total cost of your Chicago charter bus service.

Have Another Question About Charter Bus Drivers?

If you have any other questions or concerns about Chicago Charter Bus Company’s network of bus drivers, feel free to call 310-667-6197 to chat with a representative! The team is available around the clock to assist you in finding the best Chicago bus rental with a professional driver.