Last updated: 30 October 2026.
Vehicle
- Fitness certificate, insurance and permits are current and filed.
- Regular maintenance is logged, including brakes, tyres and lights.
- Seating capacity is not exceeded.
- First-aid kit and fire extinguisher are on board and in date.
- A GPS tracking device is fitted and working.
Driver and attendant
- Valid licence and background verification on file for each driver.
- A trained attendant travels on every route with young children.
- Contact numbers for the driver and attendant are with the transport desk.
- Drivers know the school’s speed limit and route rules.
Route
- Each route and stop is documented and approved.
- Each student is assigned to one bus and one stop.
- Changes to stops are recorded before they take effect.
- Geo-fence and speed alerts are set so the school knows when a bus leaves its route or speeds.
Who is on the bus
- A boarding and drop-off record exists for every trip, ideally through RFID cards.
- The bus is checked at the end of each trip so no child is left on board.
- A clear process covers a student who does not board or does not get off at their stop.
Parents
- Parents can see where the bus is.
- Parents are told when their child boards and leaves the bus.
- Delays and route changes are communicated the same day.
- There is one number parents can call about transport.
Make it routine
A checklist works when it is repeated. Tools such as school transport management software turn several of these checks, such as tracking, boarding records, speed alerts and parent alerts, into automatic records. We offer a free 30-day trial so you can see it working in your own school. Book a demo or start the trial.
Frequently asked questions
How often should a school review transport safety?
At the start of each term, and whenever a route, driver or vehicle changes.
Is GPS tracking enough for school bus safety?
GPS shows where the bus is. Combine it with boarding records, trained attendants and clear processes for missed stops.
Do local transport rules apply to school buses?
Yes. Check the current requirements of your state transport department and education board, as rules differ and are updated.