A hotel driver, also called a shuttle driver, drives a limousine, van or small bus to collect and deliver hotel guests to and from the airport. The hotel driver also is responsible for transporting guests to tourist areas, such as the beach or other destinations and provides information on the local area. He projects an important image of his employer because drivers are usually the first and last hotel representative guests meet.

Typical Duties

The hotel driver's main responsibility is to shuttle guests between the hotel and the airport. The driver must greet all guests when they enter the vehicle. The driver also assists disabled guests as necessary. The employee transports guests to any destination in accordance with hotel policies and rules. The driver is responsible for the vehicle and ensures that maintenance is regularly performed. In addition, the driver must report all accidents, injuries, unsafe working conditions and damage to hotel vehicles and related property. Drivers may be required to lift items up to 50 lbs. into the vehicle and unload them at the hotel. The employee is responsible for fueling the vehicle.

Desired Education

There are generally no educational requirements of a hotel driver. A college degree is not required, but a high school diploma is desirable. Professional driver's training from a certified driving school is also desirable but not a requirement.

Licensing and Skills

Drivers must have a valid state drive's license with a clean driving record. Some states require a special driver's license to transport more than seven passengers at a time. Basic reading and writing skills are required, including occasional report writing. Drivers may need to know how to read a map or program a GPS device. Hospitality employers expect drivers to pick up between 20 and 50 lbs. several times during the day. Excellent communication skills and a friendly manner are essential, and good personal hygiene is a must. A keen sense of direction, familiarity with the region and driving skills ensure a trouble-free work experience. Most hotels prefer driver job applicants to be 21 years of age or older.

Work Environment

A hotel driver spends a great deal of time inside a bus, van, car or limousine. Locating hotel guests requires the driver to wait inside airport terminals. This may require standing for a long period of time if a guest's flight is late or if the guest is delayed in customs. Driving in poor weather conditions and heavy traffic is routine. When not driving, a hotel driver may work at other duties on the premises that may or may not be related to driving.

Average Wages

The salary of a hotel driver is low. Drivers working for the hotel industry averaged $10.91 per hour as of 2013, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. However, the job can lead to other, better-paying job opportunities in the hotel industry. Many hotels permit drivers to accept tips, but some employers discourage the practice.