WHAT IS A PASSENGER ENDORSEMENT FOR CDL DRIVERS?

A Passenger (P) endorsement is required for CDL holders who drive vehicles designed to carry 16 or more passengers, including the driver. Passenger endorsements are essential for drivers operating buses, shuttles, or motor coaches and are often paired with other endorsements like the School Bus (S) endorsement for those working in school transportation.

WHO NEEDS A PASSENGER ENDORSEMENT?

You’ll need a Passenger endorsement if you plan to drive:

• School buses (in combination with an “S” endorsement)
  
  
• Public transit buses
  
  
• Motor coaches
  
  
• Airport shuttles
  
  
• Charter or tour buses
  
  

This endorsement is federally required for any vehicle designed to transport 16+ passengers, even if it’s not always full.

HOW TO GET A PASSENGER ENDORSEMENT

Here’s the step-by-step breakdown:

1. Hold a Valid CDL (Class A, B, or C)

You must already have a Commercial Driver’s License.

2. Complete FMCSA-Compliant Passenger Theory Training

This includes instruction on:

• Passenger safety and emergency protocols
  
  
• Loading/unloading procedures
  
  
• Distracted passenger management
  
  
• Vehicle inspection and maintenance
  
  
• Compliance with federal regulations
  
  

👉 Take the Passenger Endorsement Theory Course online through ELDT Nation — only $32!

3. Pass the Passenger Endorsement Written Test at Your DMV

Each state’s DMV offers a knowledge test based on FMCSA and state-specific passenger regulations.

4. Take the Passenger Vehicle Road Skills Test

After passing the written exam, you'll need to demonstrate your ability to safely operate a passenger vehicle, including:

• Pre-trip inspections
  
  
• Proper use of mirrors and stopping distances
  
  
• Safe passenger handling and emergency preparedness

HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE?

• The online theory portion is self-paced and takes a few hours.
  
  
• After completing the course, ELDT Nation reports your completion to the FMCSA, making you eligible to take the written exam.
  
  
• The timeline to finish all steps depends on your state DMV and road test availability.
  
  

HOW MUCH DOES IT COST?

• Online Passenger Theory Course: $32 via ELDT Nation
  
  
• State Knowledge Test & Skills Exam: Typically $25–$50, depending on your state
  
  
• CDL Upgrade Fees: Some states charge a fee to add endorsements to your existing CDL
  
  

WHAT JOBS CAN YOU GET WITH A PASSENGER ENDORSEMENT?

A Passenger (P) endorsement opens doors to roles such as:

• City bus driver
  
  
• School bus driver (requires S endorsement as well)
  
  
• Motor coach/tour bus operator
  
  
• Airport shuttle driver
  
  
• Senior transport or paratransit driver
  
  

These positions often come with:

• Predictable schedules
  
  
• Employee benefits
  
  
• Job stability, especially with school districts or municipalities

FINAL THOUGHTS

A Passenger endorsement is a valuable addition to your CDL if you're looking to move into public transit, school transport, or charter driving. It not only expands your job options but also increases your value to employers seeking reliable, safety-conscious drivers.

🎓 Ready to start? Enroll now in our Passenger Endorsement Theory Course — FMCSA-approved, 100% online, and just $32.