A new Illinois law taking effect next week offers a flexible new credentialing path for school transportation providers across the state.
Under House Bill 2962, which officially goes into effect on July 1, 2026, the Illinois Secretary of State’s office is authorized to issue a alternative school bus permit specifically tailored for drivers operating smaller transit vehicles.
The new permit structure focuses on two specific classes of student transportation:
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First Division Vehicles: Vehicles designed to carry 10 or fewer passengers.
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Multifunction School Activity Buses (MFSAB): Vehicles configured to transport up to 15 passengers.
This newly created permit option is strictly designated for drivers transporting students to and from curriculum-related activities. By streamlining the permit process for smaller, lower-capacity vehicles, the legislation aims to give school districts greater operational flexibility when scheduling field trips, specialized classes, and smaller student group outings without requiring a traditional, full-scale commercial school bus license for every driver.
