School Transportation

The Colorado Department of Education (CDE) School Transportation Unit is committed to ensuring that every student has access to a safe, reliable, and efficient journey to and from school. We recognize that a student’s educational experience begins the moment they board a school bus, and we work to provide the safe and supportive foundation that makes learning possible.

Our office is responsible for overseeing compliance with state and federal laws, rules, and regulations governing school transportation vehicles, operations, and driver qualifications. Through consistent oversight, clear guidance, and responsible stewardship of state resources, we support schools and transportation providers in meeting these expectations with confidence and integrity.

We partner with school districts, charter schools, and transportation providers across Colorado to promote safe and effective operations. Our work is grounded in the standards established by Colorado’s Minimum Standards Governing School Transportation Vehicles and the Rules for the Operation, Maintenance, and Inspection of School Transportation Vehicles.

Through training, inspections, technical assistance, and ongoing collaboration, we strive to ensure that every school transportation system operates at the highest level of safety, compliance, and professionalism—so that students can arrive ready to learn and return home safely each day.