Student transportation in Arkansas: FAQ for district transportation leaders
Answers to common questions from Arkansas transportation directors, with a link to the official source for every answer. Updated October 2026. State rules change, so confirm details with DESE before you act on them.
How is student transportation funded in Arkansas?
Transportation is built into the foundation funding matrix as a district-level resource. That category covers operations and maintenance, central offices and transportation expenses. Foundation funding uses the prior year's three-quarter average daily membership as its student count. Strong membership records through the year support next year's funding.
Source: DESE, 2025-26 Arkansas school funding guide
Is there additional transportation funding beyond the matrix?
Yes. Arkansas Code 6-20-2309 directs the Division of Elementary and Secondary Education to distribute enhanced transportation funding to school districts each school year, with amounts set in tables in the statute. DESE's school funding guide lists enhanced transportation as its own funding category. Check the current tables and your district's state aid notice for your figure.
Sources: Arkansas Code 6-20-2309 and DESE, 2025-26 Arkansas school funding guide
What training do Arkansas school bus drivers need?
Under 6 CAR 334-104, every newly hired driver completes at least 24 hours of preservice training for each type of bus they will drive before driving any school bus. Every driver completes 3 hours of in-service training each year. Driver files include a commercial driver license, a physical exam and state and federal background checks.
Source: Code of Arkansas Rules, 6 CAR 334-104
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