Part-Time Bus Operator

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 and a valid State of Illinois Class "B" Commercial Driver's License (CDL) or a valid State of Illinois CDL permit with the following three endorsements: KNOWLEDGE, PASSENGER and AIR BRAKES.

High school diploma or GED preferred.

1. Application
   Apply online and schedule a testing session

2. Testing
   Come to CTA Headquarters to complete and pass PTBO Written Test
   Provide court purpose driver’s abstract

3. Interview
   Recruiters will contact eligible candidates to schedule Interview
   (This step usually takes place 1-2 weeks after testing)

4. Offer is extended and background check process begins 
   Complete medical and background check
   (This step can take, on average, 4-5 weeks)

5. Submit any outstanding documentation
   Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP)/Commercial Driver’s License (CDL)

6. Attend Pre-Hire Session
   Complete Hire Documents and learn about benefits

7. Attend New Employee Orientation (NEO)
   Learn about the Chicago Transit Authority and the role you’ll play as a Part-Time Bus Operator.

How do I get a CLP? (Commercial Learning 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
• Take the written exam for a Class “B” CLP
  • Knowledge Endorsement
  • Passenger Endorsement
  • Air brakes Endorsement
• $60 cost to obtain permit
• Visit the Illinois Secretary of State (DMV) at:
  • Elk Grove or South Holland

Do I have to have a CLP to apply?

No, you can apply with no CDL or CLP

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. Your CTA's Bus Operator training will qualify you for your Commercial Driver's License (CDL) at no cost.

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 have 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 get one for $12 at the Secretary of State.

How old do you have to be?

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 have already tested for the position before. Will I have to take the test again?

Passing test scores are good for three years. If you did not pass the test, you can retake it after one year.

I previously applied for the PTBO position. Do I need to apply again? 

If you applied and interviewed, your application is valid for six months. If you did not pass the interview, you will be able to apply again in one year.

Do I need previous commercial driving experience?

No, you do not.

How long will the hiring process take?

About 2 months from the 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.

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.