Maryland State Department of Education

Parents - Know The Law

Incidents of parents trying to board school buses in Maryland are on the rise. While reasons for these unauthorized boarding attempts vary, they always endanger students. School buses are an extension of school and are meant to be safe spaces. Bus drivers are trained in safety protocols that include not allowing parents to board.

Maryland Laws on School Bus Safety

Maryland Transportation Law (§16-816)

Who Can Ride a School Bus?

School bus drivers are not allowed to let anyone who is not a student or a school employee board or ride the bus. This rule is in place to ensure the safety of students. Exceptions may apply in specific situations, as outlined by the law.

Maryland Education Law (§26-104)

Protecting School Bus Drivers

It is a crime to interfere with, disrupt, or obstruct a school bus driver while they are doing their job.

Consequences for Violating This Law

Anyone who disrupts a school bus driver's duties can face serious penalties, including:

• a fine of up to $1,000,
• up to 90 days in jail,
• or both.

Best Practices

For the safety and security of all children, only authorized personnel and students are permitted on the bus.

• To report school bus related concerns contact the school's administration.
• If you need to speak with the driver, approach the driver's side window instead of the bus's service door. For everyone's safety, the bus's flashing lights will remain activated during this time.
• Keep conversations with the driver brief to ensure traffic flows smoothly and routes are not delayed.

View the Bus Safety Flyer

Maryland Center for School Safety (MCSS) - These laws aim to ensure student safety during school commutes and allow bus drivers to perform their duties without distractions. Parents can assist by reinforcing bus rules and respecting bus drivers' responsibilities.