All McHenry Schools Transportation Department bus drivers are licensed by the Secretary of State and the Illinois State Board of Education. To qualify for a school bus license, a driver must:

• Fill out application at the Transportation Department’s Facility.
• Be 21 years of age or older.
• Possess a valid driver's license for three years immediately prior to the date of application: license must not been revoked, suspended, canceled or disqualified.
• Obtain driving record from the Secretary of State facility.
• Complete an 8 hour Initial Classroom Course conducted by the Regional Superintendent of Schools Office.
• Study for commercial driver's license (CDL) and permit test and pass the following tests to get an instructional permit: school bus operation, school bus safety, and special traffic laws relating to school buses. Submit to a review of the applicant's driving habits by the Secretary of State at the time the written test is given.
• Training behind the wheel - approximately 20 hours.
• Be fingerprinted.
• Pass a physical examination including proof from tuberculosis and communicable disease. Chemical testing for drug abuse is also required.
• Pass the driver's examination consisting of a pre-trip inspection and a behind the wheel examination.
• It will take approximately 3-4 weeks to complete the training process, depending on the individual applicant, turnaround time for fingerprints and Initial Course availability.