top of page
Testimonials JobPosting Webseite.jpg

Bus driver jobs in Germany for English speakers and foreigners

Whether you are looking for a full-time or part time bus driver job, Germany offers a range of opportunities in public transit, tourism, and private shuttle services. While basic German skills can be helpful, some employers—especially in tourism or international transport—hire English-speaking drivers. Below, we break down the key facts, salary expectations, and job opportunities in this field.

Quick Facts

  • High demand: Public transport networks and private tour operators are continuously hiring due to urban expansion, increasing tourism, and retiring drivers.

  • Top Employers: Public transit operators (BVG, MVG), long-distance carriers ( Deutsche Bahn Regio Bus), and private tour companies.
     

  • Essential Qualifications: Category D (or D1) driving license, a valid Certificate of Professional Competence (CPC), and a clean driving record.
     

  • Average Salary: 42.791 €

  • Minimum Wage: 34.000 € 

No Data

LKW-Fahrer – ADR (München, Bayern) | Jetzt bewerben!

Ja

Fortgeschritten (B2)

Munich

Warehouse

Accommodation

Required Visa

Accommodation

Required Visa

Required Visa

Required Visa

Nein

Truck Driver

Truck Driver Job in Germany (Vreden, NRW) - Hiring now (m/f/d)

yes

basic (A2)

Plovdiv

Warehouse

Accommodation

Required Visa

Accommodation

Required Visa

Required Visa

Required Visa

with support

Truck Driver

Truck Driver Job in Germany (Ampfing) - Hiring now (m/f/d)

no

intermediate (B2)

Ampfing

Warehouse

Accommodation

Required Visa

Accommodation

Required Visa

Required Visa

Required Visa

long-term

Truck Driver

Truck Driver – ADR (Munich, Germany) | Apply Now!

yes

intermediate (B2)

Munich

Warehouse

Accommodation

Required Visa

Accommodation

Required Visa

Required Visa

Required Visa

no

Truck Driver

Truck Driver Job in Germany (Vreden, NRW) - Hiring now (m/f/d)

yes

basic (A2)

Győr

Warehouse

Accommodation

Required Visa

Accommodation

Required Visa

Required Visa

Required Visa

with support

Truck Driver

Truck Driver Job in Germany (Vreden, NRW) - Hiring now (m/f/d)

yes

basic (A2)

Kaunas

Warehouse

Accommodation

Required Visa

Accommodation

Required Visa

Required Visa

Required Visa

with support

Truck Driver

Truck Driver Job in Germany (Vreden, NRW) - Hiring now (m/f/d)

yes

basic (A2)

Brașov

Warehouse

Accommodation

Required Visa

Accommodation

Required Visa

Required Visa

Required Visa

with support

Truck Driver

Truck Driver Job in Germany (Vreden, NRW) - Hiring now (m/f/d)

yes

basic (A2)

Bratislava

Warehouse

Accommodation

Required Visa

Accommodation

Required Visa

Required Visa

Required Visa

with support

Truck Driver

Truck Driver Job in Germany (Vreden, NRW) - Hiring now (m/f/d)

yes

basic (A2)

Madrid

Warehouse

Accommodation

Required Visa

Accommodation

Required Visa

Required Visa

Required Visa

with support

Truck Driver

Posao za vozača kamiona CE u Njemačkoj (Ampfing) - Ponude za posao

ne

osnovno (A2)

Ampfing

Warehouse

Accommodation

Required Visa

Accommodation

Required Visa

Required Visa

Required Visa

dugoročno

Truck Driver

Vozač kamiona za lokalni prijevoz (Vreden, NRW) - Prijavi se sada (m/ž/d)

da

osnovno (A2)

Zagreb

Warehouse

Accommodation

Required Visa

Accommodation

Required Visa

Required Visa

Required Visa

s podrškom

Truck Driver

Kierowca ciężarówki (m/k/d) – Transport dalekobieżny | Hohenstein-Ernstthal, Niemcy

-

-

Hohenstein-Ernstthal

Warehouse

Accommodation

Required Visa

Accommodation

Required Visa

Required Visa

Required Visa

-

Truck Driver

Top bus driver jobs in Germany

The bus driver industry in Germany offers a wide array of opportunities for both locals and foreigners. By gaining expertise in various fields, you can significantly enhance your career prospects. Here are some top fields:  

Tourist transport companies: Cities like Berlin, Munich, and Hamburg have a high demand for tour bus drivers who can communicate with international visitors. These roles often involve guiding sightseeing tours and offering customer assistance in English.

 

Long-distance bus operators: Companies like FlixBus and other international transport providers require drivers for cross-border routes across Europe. English is commonly used for communication with passengers and dispatch teams.

 

Airport shuttle services: Major airports such as Frankfurt, Düsseldorf, and Berlin Brandenburg employ English-speaking drivers for shuttle services between terminals, hotels, and city centers.

 

Corporate and private charter services: Many businesses and event organizers hire bus drivers for corporate travel, conferences, and private group tours, where English communication is a valuable asset.

Public bus driver

Where: City transit systems like BVG (Berlin), MVG (Munich), or KVB (Cologne).

Responsibilities: Operating scheduled routes, adhering to timetables, and ensuring passenger safety.

Regional bus driver

Where: Smaller towns and rural areas, often under local government contracts.

Responsibilities: Transporting passengers between towns, schools, and major hubs.

 

Long-Distance bus driver

Where: Private operators like FlixBus, DB Fernverkehr, or international tour companies.

Responsibilities: Driving intercity routes or guided tours across Germany and Europe.

 

School Bus driver

Where: Public and private schools or youth transport services.

Responsibilities: Safely transporting children, maintaining schedules, and ensuring onboard discipline.

 

Shuttle/Charter Bus driver

Where: Corporate campuses, event venues, airports, or private hire companies.

Responsibilities: Operating scheduled shuttle routes for employees, guests, or travelers.

 

Tourist Sightseeing Bus Driver

Where: Tourist-heavy areas like Berlin, Munich, Hamburg, or scenic regions.

Responsibilities: Navigating sightseeing routes, assisting with guided commentary, and ensuring a smooth experience for travelers.

Bus driver jobs in Germany for English speakers

Germany’s public transport sector offers excellent opportunities for English-speaking bus drivers, especially in tourism and long-distance travel. Many companies actively seek bilingual drivers to accommodate international passengers and ensure smooth communication. Even if your German skills are still developing, you can find work in tourist transport, airport shuttle services, and long-distance bus companies.

 

Major cities like Berlin, Munich, and Hamburg have a high demand for drivers who can assist international visitors on sightseeing tours and chartered trips. Long-distance bus operators also hire English-speaking staff for cross-border routes across Europe. Additionally, airport shuttle services and corporate transport companies offer steady employment for drivers comfortable navigating major transit hubs.

 

If you’re considering a bus driving career in Germany but aren’t fluent in German yet, there are still plenty of opportunities to gain experience, improve your language skills, and secure a stable position in the industry.

Are bus driver jobs in demand in Germany?

Yes. Germany’s strong public transport infrastructure and growing tourism sector ensure a steady demand for bus drivers. According to a press release of the Federal Statistical Office (Destatis), the number of passengers in regular bus and rail transport increased by 29% in 2022 compared to the previous year.

Key factors driving demand for bus drivers:

  • Increasing passenger numbers post-pandemic: 10.2 billion passengers used public and long-distance transport—significantly more than in previous years, though still 14% below pre-pandemic levels.
     

  • Public transport initiatives: Since May 2023, the Deutschland Ticket (49 euros per month) has been in place, making public transport more accessible and increasing the need for bus drivers.
     

  • Urban expansion and workforce shortages: Growing cities require more public transport options, while many current bus drivers are approaching retirement, leading to a rising demand for new drivers in both public and private sectors.

 

Factors such as rising ageing policies, tourism numbers, new mobility initiatives, and expanding city transit networks further contribute to long-term job security for bus drivers.

 

If you’re considering a career as a bus driver in Germany, now is a great time to enter the industry—whether in public transit, long-distance travel, or specialized charter services.

How much do bus drivers earn in Germany?

Compensation varies by region, operator (public vs. private), and experience. Below is a general guideline for annual gross salaries based on years of experience:

Experience level
Years of experience
Average annual salary
Late career
20+ years
48.000 - 52.000 EUR
Experienced
10 - 19 years
42.000 - 48.000 EUR
Mid career
5 - 9 years
36.000 - 42.000 EUR
Early career
1 - 4 years
32.000 - 36.000 EUR
Entry level
less than 1 year
30.000 - 32.000 EUR

Source: https://www.salaryexpert.com/salary/job/bus-driver/germany

Regional differences: Major cities like Berlin, Munich, and Hamburg often pay higher wages compared to rural areas.

Union contracts: Public transport operators typically follow collective wage agreements, which can increase your base salary and overtime pay.

 

Part-time possibilities: You might earn slightly less annually as a part-time driver, but hourly wages often remain comparable to full-time roles.

 

What qualifications are needed for bus driver in Germany as a foreigner?

 

Germany has strict regulations for professional drivers to ensure that only well-trained, responsible drivers operate buses. If you are a foreign national looking to work as a bus driver in Germany, you must meet the following requirements:

 

Mandatory Qualifications
  • Category D Driver’s License

    • Required for operating buses with more than eight passengers.

    • Non-EU/EEA licenses may need to be converted within six months of arrival. Additional tests may be required to meet German standards.
       

  • Certificate of Professional Competence (CPC, “Code 95”)

    • Mandatory for commercial passenger transport.

    • Confirms that the driver meets EU regulations for professional driving.
       

  • Medical Fitness Check

    • Ensures the driver is physically and mentally fit to operate a bus safely.

    • Includes vision tests, reflex assessments, and general health evaluations.
       

  • Clean Driving Record

    • A record free from serious traffic violations or criminal offenses is essential.

    • Some employers may require a background check or a “Führungszeugnis” (certificate of good conduct).

 

Additional Requirements
  • Basic German Language Skills

    • Necessary for reading road signs, understanding timetables, and interacting with passengers.

    • Some employers require a B1 level in German, but private operators (e.g., long-distance coaches) may accept English-speaking drivers.
       

  • Work Permit and Visa (for Non-EU Applicants)

    • A valid work visa or residence permit is required for non-EU citizens.

    • Some employers offer visa sponsorship, especially in areas facing driver shortages.
       

  • Technical and Digital Competence

    • Familiarity with ticketing systems, GPS navigation, and digital scheduling tools is a plus.

 

Soft Skills 
  • Customer service skills: Professionalism and patience when dealing with passengers.

  • Stress management: Ability to handle long shifts and busy city traffic.

  • Punctuality and responsibility: Reliable driving and adherence to schedules.

 

By meeting these qualifications, foreign bus drivers can find stable, well-paid job opportunities in Germany’s growing public transport and tourism sectors.

 

Do bus drivers in Germany have to clean their buses?

 

One common concern among bus driver job applicants is whether they are responsible for cleaning their buses. In Germany, this depends on the employer and the type of bus service.

  • Public transport operators (e.g., BVG, MVG) typically have dedicated cleaning staff, so drivers are not expected to perform cleaning tasks beyond basic tidiness.
     

  • Private tour & shuttle operators may require drivers to conduct minor cleaning, such as removing trash or wiping down seats between trips.
     

  • Long-distance bus drivers often do basic cleaning at rest stops but are not expected to perform deep cleaning.

 

Applicants should clarify these expectations with employers before accepting a position, ensuring there are no surprises on the job.

Employment contract / collective agreement specifically for truck driver

Germany’s bus drivers often fall under collective agreements (Tarifverträge) negotiated by unions and employer associations. While details can vary by region or operator, here are some standard points:

  1. Working hours

    • Typically range from 35 to 40 hours per week. Public operators often have more rigid schedules, while private ones may offer flexible or shift-based timetables.

    • Part time bus driver jobs are widely available, especially for school bus drivers and shuttle services. These roles often involve split shifts, working early mornings and afternoons with a break in between.
       

  2. Overtime and shift allowances

    • Overtime usually garners additional pay, often around 25–30% above the normal hourly rate.

    • Night, weekend, and holiday shifts can further boost your earnings.
       

  3. Notice periods

    • Vary based on seniority and contract. Probation periods may offer 2 weeks’ notice, escalating to several months if you’ve been in the job for years.
       

  4. Health insurance

    • Mandatory for all employees, with costs shared equally between employer and employee.

    • Some large public operators may provide additional private health insurance options or higher employer contributions.
       

  5. Paid absences

    • Vacation: 24–30 days per year, potentially more under certain unions or if you’ve acquired significant seniority.

    • Sick leave: Full salary for up to 6 weeks of illness, then statutory insurance covers a portion.

    • Parental leave: Up to 3 years job-protected leave per child, following German law.

 

For those seeking a part time bus driver job, whether as a school bus driver or a shuttle driver, flexible contracts are often available. These roles offer predictable schedules and are ideal for those looking to balance work with other commitments.

How to apply for bus driver jobs on hello jobs

What if you find an easier way to get in touch with companies who provide convenient jobs for you and your experience as a bus driver? The easiest way for you to find a convenient truck driver job is to apply at hello jobs. Here you get together with possible prospective employers.

Use the following steps which bring you closer to your favorite job by using this convenient appointment/application procedure:

​​

  • Step 1 - Send application: Applying is straightforward, with a user-friendly interface on our website. You can select the job that interests you, click the "Apply" button on the job listing to start your application process.

  • Step 2 - Introduction call: Schedule an introduction call, where we discuss your preferences and ensure that the job aligns with your career goals.

  • Step 3 - Interview process: Successful candidates receive support for the interview process, including interview preparation and guidance on insurance and tax matters.

  • Step 4 - Job placement: Once interviews are successful, you receive recommendations for housing search and connections to our community.

The first contact usually occurs within five days of submitting your application, with the duration from initial contact to job placement typically ranging between 2 to 6 weeks.

Our team at hello jobs will be happy to navigate your job search with ease and confidence, setting the stage for a successful journey into the German job market.

FAQs

1. Are bus drivers in demand in Germany?
Yes. Growing city populations, increased tourism, and many retirements among the current workforce have created a consistent need for bus drivers nationwide.

 

2. How much do bus drivers get paid in Germany?
Annual gross salaries generally range from 34.000 to 48.000 €depending on experience, location, and whether you’re with a public or private operator. Night or weekend shifts often come with higher pay rates.

 

3. How do I become a bus driver in Germany?
You’ll need a category D license (or D1 for smaller buses), possibly a CPC or Code 95 endorsement, and generally a clean driving record. If you’re a foreigner, you may need to convert your existing license within 6 months and prove basic German language competence.

 

4. Can a foreigner drive trucks in Germany?
Yes. Foreigners can drive trucks or buses in Germany, provided they have the correct license and meet visa or work permit requirements. Many transport companies, both public and private, welcome international applicants.

Summary

The bus driving industry in Germany offers stable and long-term job prospects, especially for new and transitioning workers. With increasing passenger demand and government-backed mobility initiatives, now is a great time to enter the industry.

 

Taking on bus driver jobs in Germany opens doors to stable employment, competitive wages, and the chance to interact with diverse communities—be it local residents, tourists, or commuters in bustling urban centers. Whether you’re seeking a part time bus driver job or want to climb the ranks in a public transport system, the German market offers a wealth of opportunities for English speakers and foreigners.

 

At hello jobs, we simplify your job search by connecting you with reputable employers who need your language skills and driving expertise. From short regional routes to long-distance tour operations, you can choose a path that suits your lifestyle and career ambitions. Ready to start? Head over to hello-jobs.eu/germany or explore our Bus Driver listings to begin your journey. Hop aboard your next big opportunity—Germany’s roads and travelers await you!

bottom of page