What class of driver's license allows you to operate a school bus?

The ability to operate a school bus is specifically tied to the type of driver's license held. A Class 4 driver's license, particularly the unrestricted version, is designed for driving regular passenger vehicles as well as certain larger vehicles, including vans and school buses, as long as they meet specific size and weight limits.

In British Columbia, a Class 4 unrestricted license allows individuals to operate buses that carry more than 10 passengers, which includes school buses. This regulation ensures that drivers have the appropriate training and qualifications for the responsibility that comes with transporting children safely.

The other classes of licenses mentioned, while essential for operating specific types of vehicles, do not include the authority to drive a school bus. A Class 1 license is for operating tractor-trailers, a Class 2 license is for driving buses that carry more than 24 passengers, and a Class 5 is for standard passenger vehicles; none explicitly cover school buses if the specific requirements for Class 4 are neglected.