Ready to load up your Washington D.C. charter bus rental, but have a few questions about who will be driving the bus? You’re in the right place!

We understand your safety and comfort are a priority. That’s why we’ve put together this guide— so you can know what to expect from your charter bus driver and can ride with confidence. From conference shuttle bus rentals in Alexandria to bachelorette party charter buses in Virginia Beach, you can trust these certified professionals to ease your group transportation logistics throughout the Washington D.C. area.

A male bus driver smiles while holding the wheel of a motorcoach

Who Will Drive My Washington D.C. Bus Rental?

When you book a motorcoach from Washington D.C. Charter Bus Company, your rental will include the services of a professional driver. We only partner with providers who employ drivers who have experience operating a wide range of bus rental models and have received a Commercial Driver’s License with Passenger Endorsement.

According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, professional coach bus drivers must pass:

  • A criminal record background check
  • A physical exam—including hearing and vision
  • A skills performance evaluation
  • Regular drug and alcohol screenings

In addition to the basic requirements, we value Washington D.C. bus rental providers who offer stellar customer service for all passengers and group types! If you have a particular accommodation you need during your trip, let us know and our reservation team will pair you with the right driver for the job. Whether it’s a specific security clearance for a government or military outing or experience navigating the National Mall area with a group, your bus driver will ensure your bus rental in Washington D.C. runs smoothly from beginning to end.

Overhead view of a female bus driver in a bus seat

Frequently Asked Questions about D.C. Charter Bus Drivers

How often does my driver inspect the bus?

Don’t worry—your Washington D.C. bus rental will undergo a rigorous inspection process before your trip to ensure your passengers’ safety and comfort. Preventative maintenance is key to easy and efficient transportation, so your bus driver will be well-versed in keeping your motorcoach in tip-top shape.

Will my driver load and unload my luggage?

Yes, to a certain extent. Loading and unloading luggage is part of a bus driver’s daily tasks. However, federal safety regulations limit the weight one transportation employee can carry at a time to 50 pounds. If you have a luggage parcel that’s heavier than that, you’ll need to help them place it in the undercarriage luggage bay of your charter bus.

How much do I tip my bus driver?

Tips are never expected, but they are always appreciated! If you’re happy with your driver’s work, it’s customary to tip them 5% to 10% of your total trip cost. Most groups pool together cash from all passengers at the end of the trip—but let us know if you want gratuity rolled into the initial cost of your D.C. charter bus, and we’ll ensure your driver is paid accordingly!

How often will my charter bus driver need to take a break?

To ensure your bus driver performs to the best of their ability, they will need to take regularly scheduled breaks to grab a meal and rest up before hitting the road again. Federal regulations require your driver to take one 8-hour break for every 10 consecutive hours behind the wheel or every 15 hours on the clock. Your driver will be responsible for their own meals throughout your trip—though an offer of bottled water or snacks is a kind gesture that they will surely appreciate.

Do I need to pay for my driver’s lodging?

If your group trip involves staying at a hotel overnight, then yes, you will need to provide comfortable, private lodging with easy access to motorcoach-friendly parking for your bus rental. We recommend requesting an extra room at your hotel when you reserve a block for your passengers. The hotel may even provide a discount if you inquire when you book.

Hit the Road with Confidence

As you can see, when you book a charter bus in Washington D.C., your passengers will be in the capable hands of an experienced professional! If you have any other questions about your charter bus driver—or about bus rentals in general—give us a call at 202-903-0059. Our team is available around the clock, 24/7/365, to assist you with every step of the reservation process.

Get in touch today for a free, no-obligation estimate tailored to your Washington D.C. charter bus needs!