Required to submit to and pass drug and alcohol testing as mandated by the Federal Transportation Administration.
Required to be at least 21 years of age.
Required to have an acceptable driving record
Required to obtain a valid State of Illinois Class "B" Commercial Driver's License (CDL) or a valid State of Illinois Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP) with the following three endorsements: KNOWLEDGE, PASSENGER and AIR BRAKES.
*If you don’t have a CDL at the time of application, CTA provides paid training for candidates with CLPs to help obtain their the license.
High school diploma or GED preferred.
Do I have to have a CLP to apply?
No, you can apply with no CDL or CLP. If you are offered the position, you will be required to obtain the CLP before your start date. CTA will then provide 30-45 days of paid training include CDL training.
How do I get a CLP? (Commercial Learner’s Permit)
- You must be at least 21 years of age and have a valid IL driver’s license
- Study the IL CDL Handbook from Secretary of State
- Visit the Illinois Secretary of State DMV at:
- Either the Elk Grove or South Holland location
- Take the written exam for a Class “B” CLP
- Knowledge Endorsement
- Passenger Endorsement
- Air brakes Endorsement
- It will cost you $60 to obtain the permit
How long do I have to get my CLP?
You have 30 days from time you are offered the job to get your CLP. You will not be able to start without submitting a copy of the CLP.
I have a CLP but not a CDL. Will I need to convert it before I can start?
No. Successful completion of CTA's Bus Operator paid training will qualify you for the Commercial Driver’s License (CDL).
I already have my CDL. What endorsements do I need?
Knowledge, passenger, and air brakes.
I already have a CDL from another state. Will CTA accept it?
Out-of-state CDLs will be accepted if you have current residency in that state. Illinois residents have to obtain an Illinois CLP/CDL.
What is a driving abstract? How do I obtain one?
A Driving Abstract is a Motor Vehicle Record provided by the Illinois Secretary of State that is required to be considered for the PTBO position. You can request one for $12 at the Secretary of State.
What is the Bus Operator minimum age?
Applicants must be at least 21 years of age.
How do I apply?
Applications are accepted online only. You can apply from our Careers page.
I previously applied for the PTBO position. Do I need to apply again?
If you applied and interviewed, your application is valid for six (6) months. If you did not pass the interview, you will be able to apply again in one (1) year.
I have already tested for the position before. Will I have to take the test again?
Passing test scores are good for three (3) years. If you did not pass the test, you can retake it after one (1) year. You must reapply for the position in order to re-test.
Do I need previous commercial driving experience?
No, you do not. We provide paid training to teach you what you need to know about operating a commercial vehicle.
How long will the hiring process take?
Approximately two (2) months from your testing date.
How long will it take to hear after an interview?
Within 48 hours you should hear from a member of our team by email or phone.
Please make sure to have your most up to date contact information on your application. Additionally, check your spam/junk folders to make sure you don’t miss anything.
What are the next steps after the passed interview?
- Submit a copy of your CLP to the recruiter.
- Complete medical and background screening.
No one will be allowed to start without completing all steps of the screening process.
How do I check the status of my application?
The status of all your applications can be found on your applicant profile on the job application site.