Programs in truck and bus driving prepare people to drive commercial vehicles. Students learn how to operate diesel, gas, and electric-powered trucks and buses. They also learn how to load and unload cargo and passengers as well as keep records

Have you ever traveled to a big city for a vacation? It's both exciting and daunting. Seeing the landmarks, gazing at the architecture, and sampling the local fare can make a vacation. But then there's the driving. Even if you're a passenger instead of the driver, you can sense the driver's stress. It's tough to follow directions for a new city, and in some places the traffic can be very intimidating.

Unless, of course, you're on a large tour bus. Then, you can sit back, relax, and allow the driver to handle the roads for you. Drivers of these buses know how to navigate traffic, keep you safe, and of course, drive a very big vehicle.

If that doesn't sound too bad to you, there are programs in truck and bus driving that teach you how to operate large vehicles. You can learn how to drive vehicles "for-hire." This can mean everything from driving a tour bus to driving tractor-trailers across the country.

In general, you take several courses to polish your driving skills. You learn defensive driving, maneuvering, and how to handle passengers. You study federal and state laws regarding safety and transportation. You also prepare to take the commercial drivers license exam. Your course work offer lots of hands-on training. You get to drive diesel and gas-powered vehicles and observe other students driving as well.

A number of two-year technical and vocational schools offer programs in truck and bus driving. In most cases, you earn a certificate. This usually takes one year to complete.