The Passenger (P) endorsement is necessary for any commercial driver who wants to transport people safely. From driving buses to shuttles, or even vans, taking this endorsement is potentially a key factor to your career. Therefore, in this post, we provide all you need about CDL passenger endorsement, from what exactly it is, who needs it, the requirements involved, and how to get it. Ready to elevate your driving career? Scroll down for more!
What is the CDL Passenger endorsement?
The passenger endorsement (P endorsement) qualifies CDL licensees to drive all kinds of vehicles that transport passengers, such as buses, shuttles, and vans. This endorsement is crucial to ensure the protection of passengers by showing that the driver knows safety practices, and procedures in case of emergencies, and how some vehicles are specifically operated.
According to the rule by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), a CDL with a P endorsement is required if you drive a vehicle designed to transport more than 16 persons, including yourself. Passenger vehicles include but are not limited to buses, farm labor vehicles, or general public paratransit vehicles when designed or maintained to carry more than 16 passengers for hire, profit, or by nonprofit organizations.
Who needs P endorsement on CDL?
If you are in the following position, you are required to obtain a P endorsement:
- Bus drivers: Those who operate commercial buses such as city transit and school buses
- Van drivers: Those who drive vehicles designed to transport more than 15 passengers.
- Shuttle drivers: Those who use shuttles for transportation in groups.
If you take a driving test in a van designed to carry 15 persons or fewer, including the driver, you will be restricted to driving small buses with a capacity of 15 fewer. To drive large passenger-carrying vehicles, your CDL must include the P endorsement.
What are the requirements for CDL Passenger endorsement?
Before going through the procedure, it is essential to understand what the basic requirements are for getting a passenger endorsement. Here is a description of those aspects:
- Valid CDL: Have a valid Commercial Driver’s License or Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP)
- Medical certificate: If you do not have a medical certificate for a commercial license within the last 5 years, you will be required to undergo a physical examination to obtain e a valid medical certificate. This demonstrates that you are physically qualified to operate commercial passenger vehicles safely.
- Vision requirement: You must meet the vision requirement by DOT. This can include at least 20/40 vision in each eye with or without correction, along with a 70-degree field of vision for each eye. You should be able to recognize the amber, green, and red colors.
- Pass written and practical tests: You must undergo and pass a written test related to safety regulations and operational procedures specific to the Passenger endorsement. In some cases, a skill test is also required due to the state’s laws.
How to get Passenger endorsement on CDL?
Getting a passenger endorsement might be a little overwhelming, but the following steps will ease the process:
Step 1. Fulfill the required license and certificate
Before applying for the P endorsement, you should prepare a proper CDL or CLP in advance. Moreover, make sure you obtain a valid medical examiner’s certificate – DOT. This examination includes checking your eyesight, hearing, and general physical health to ensure you are physically ready for the demands of driving large vehicles that carry passengers.
Step 2. Apply for the Passenger endorsement
Once you have your CDL, along with your medical certificate, apply for the P endorsement in your state’s DMV. You must fill out an application according to the state’s instructions and submit the necessary paperwork, including identity proof, CDL/CLP, and medical certificate. Some states charge an application fee for this process.
Step 3. Complete a passenger ELDT theory program
Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration – FMCSA requires all drivers to take ELDT training. The training covers theory courses concerning passenger vehicle operations. You will learn about passenger safety, vehicle inspections, emergency procedures, and specific regulations related to transporting passengers. You must pass this program before being allowed to take any tests.
Step 4. Pass a passenger endorsement written test
The next step is taking the written test for passenger transportation. This test assesses your knowledge of transporting passengers and passenger vehicle operations. Make sure you take this test seriously since it determines whether you can move to the next process.
To study for the written test, it is recommended that you take practice tests by CDL Prep to strengthen your knowledge and familiarize yourself before the actual test day.
Take practice tests by CDL Prep
Step 5. Pass the skills test
Before taking the practical driving test, get behind-the-wheel practice to acquire the necessary skills to drive passenger vehicles safely. On the test day, you must pass three sets, as follows:
- Pre-trip inspection test: You are required to make necessary checks on the vehicle before starting to drive, ensuring its safety.
- Basic vehicle control: This set tests your skill in controlling the vehicle in close environments such as parking or turning.
- On-the-road driving test: You will drive in actual driving situations.
Step 6. Add passenger endorsement to your CLP or CDL
Once you have passed your tests, a “P” endorsement will be added to your license. Now you are officially licensed to operate commercial passenger-carrying vehicles such as buses, shuttles, or vans.
FAQs
1. Do you need a CDL to drive a 14-passenger bus?
Yes, a 14-passenger bus would fall into a category where, typically, it is designed to transport more than 10 passengers, hence, hence requiring a CDL.
2. Do you need a CDL to drive a 20-passenger bus?
Absolutely. A 20-passenger bus requires a CDL with a Passenger endorsement as the threshold for just 10 passengers is far exceeded.
3. Do you need a CDL to drive a 15-passenger van?
Yes, you do need to CDL to drive a 15-passenger van, particularly if this van is used for commercial purposes or carries more than ten passengers, including the driver.
Final thoughts
The CDL passenger endorsement is important for any driver to ensure they transport people safely and effectively. By following our comprehensive explanation and staying proactive in your education and hands-on practice, you can confidently succeed in obtaining a P endorsement in your CDL license. Ready to get started on your journey to enhance your license today? Let CDL Prep be your trusted assistant on this journey! Our ultimate goal is to provide you with the most updated information, top-tier materials, and effective practice tests to ensure your success.
