Commercial Driver's License Passenger Endorsement

Driving Our Students to Success

At SPCDL Truck Driving School, we are dedicated to helping drivers expand their careers by earning their Passenger Endorsement. Whether you're already holding a Class A, B, or C Commercial Driver's License (CDL), adding this endorsement allows you to legally transport 16 or more passengers.

Our training program combines comprehensive online learning and hands-on, in-person instruction for students in San Bernardino, Riverside, Orange, Los Angeles, and San Diego counties.

For students across the USA, our online modules are easily accessible and designed to prepare you for the CDL Passenger Endorsement Test.

PLEASE NOTE: THESE TRAINING HOURS ARE FOR CURRENT CDL HOLDERS ADDING A PASSENGER ENDORSEMENT.

Current CDL holders and Class C CDLs that are adding a Passenger Endorsement have no minimum number of training hours required.

Our program provides online theory training and (4) hours of 1 on 1 training. New Class A or Class B CDLs are required to do a minimum of 15 hours of training in California.

Flexible Payment Options & Discounts

We understand that cost can be a barrier, so SPCDL offers flexible payment plans to fit your budget. Additionally, military personnel, veterans, and first responders receive a 10% discount.

Passenger transport is a vital part of the commercial driving industry. This license opens doors to opportunities in public transportation, shuttle services, and chartered bus driving. Our goal is to make the process of earning your endorsement as smooth as possible with flexible learning options and experienced instructors guiding you through every step.

What is a Passenger Endorsement?

A Passenger Endorsement is an addition to your Commercial Driver's License (CDL) that allows you to operate vehicles designed to carry 16 or more passengers, including the driver. These vehicles can include:

- School buses

- Transit buses

- Shuttle buses

- Motorcoaches

- Large passenger vans

Without this endorsement, it is illegal to transport more than 16 passengers in a commercial vehicle. For those looking to work in passenger transport—whether it’s for a city bus service or a private shuttle company—a Passenger Endorsement is essential.

Earning this endorsement requires passing both a written exam and a road test that focuses on safely managing passengers and operating large vehicles.

Why Choose SPCDL for Your Passenger Endorsement Training?

At SPCDL Truck Driving School, we focus on offering personalized, comprehensive training that sets you up for success. Here's what makes our program stand out:

Flexible Learning Options: We offer online training that is accessible from anywhere in the USA, so you can learn at your own pace. Our 160+ hours of multimedia courses cover everything from vehicle safety to passenger management.

In-Person Training: For students in San Bernardino, Riverside, Orange, Los Angeles, and San Diego counties, we provide 16-20 hours of one-on-one instruction with one of our certified instructors. You'll get personalized attention, ensuring you're fully prepared for the CDL Passenger Endorsement test.

Test Day Support: When test day arrives, SPCDL will meet you at the DMV with the necessary vehicle for your road test, giving you the confidence and support needed to pass.

Passenger Endorsement Training Curriculum Breakdown

Our Passenger Endorsement training program covers both theory and hands-on practice, ensuring you're fully prepared for all aspects of the CDL Passenger Endorsement Test. Here’s an overview of what you’ll learn:

Online Course Topics:

- Post-Crash Procedures: Learn the necessary steps to take after an accident, ensuring passenger safety and proper documentation.

- Other Emergency Procedures: Understand how to handle non-crash emergencies such as vehicle breakdowns or evacuations.

- Vehicle Orientation: Get familiar with the layout of passenger vehicles, including buses and shuttles, and understand their unique safety features.

- Pre, Enroute, and Post-Trip Inspections: Ensure your vehicle is safe and compliant through thorough inspections before, during, and after trips.

- Fueling & Idling: Learn how to manage fuel usage and understand the environmental impact of excessive idling.

- Baggage Cargo Management: Understand how to properly load, secure, and manage passenger baggage during trips.

- Passenger Awareness Safety Briefing: Develop the skills to provide passengers with clear and concise safety instructions before the journey begins.

- Passenger Management: Learn how to handle passenger behavior and maintain a safe, comfortable environment during trips.

- ADA Compliance: Ensure compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) to accommodate passengers with disabilities.

- HOS Requirements: Follow the Hours of Service (HOS) rules to prevent driver fatigue and ensure safety.

- Safety Belt Safety: Ensure that passengers are securely fastened and understand the importance of using seat belts.

- Distracted Driving: Gain techniques to stay focused and avoid distractions while transporting passengers.

- Railroad Highway Grade Crossings and Drawbridges: Learn the specific protocols for safely navigating these potentially dangerous areas.

- Weigh Stations: Understand the procedures for stopping at weigh stations and ensuring compliance.

- Security and Crime: Learn strategies for preventing and responding to security threats while transporting passengers.

- Roadside Inspections: Be prepared for roadside inspections by law enforcement or regulatory agencies.

- Penalties and Fines: Learn about the consequences of breaking laws and regulations related to passenger transport.

In-Person Training:

Hands-On Driving Practice: With 16-20 hours of one-on-one instruction, you'll practice crucial driving skills, including parking, handling passenger interactions, and navigating city and highway traffic.

Passenger Management: Practice managing passenger safety and behavior in a real-world setting, ensuring you're prepared for every scenario.

Emergency Procedures: Get hands-on experience in managing emergency situations, ensuring you can keep passengers safe in a crisis.

Test Preparation: We'll focus on the specific skills and maneuvers required for the Passenger Endorsement test, including pre-trip inspections, safe driving techniques, and managing passenger loads.

California & Federal Requirements for Passenger Endorsement

To obtain your Passenger Endorsement in California, you must meet both state and federal requirements. Here’s a summary of what you’ll need to know:

California-Specific Requirements:

- Age Requirement: You must be at least 18 years old to drive intrastate (within California) and 21 years old to drive interstate (across state lines).

- Written Exam: Pass the California Passenger Endorsement written exam, which covers state laws and regulations specific to passenger transport.

- Medical Certification: Obtain a medical certificate from a certified medical examiner to ensure you're physically fit to operate a passenger vehicle.

- Background Check: Drivers who wish to transport passengers must pass a background check to ensure they meet the legal and safety requirements for passenger transport.

Federal Requirements:

- DOT Medical Exam: All commercial drivers must pass the Department of Transportation (DOT) physical exam to verify that they meet federal health standards.

- Hours of Service (HOS): Drivers must adhere to federal Hours of Service regulations, which limit the number of hours you can drive before taking a required rest break.

- Passenger Safety Regulations: Comply with FMCSA (Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration) guidelines for passenger safety and transport.

Difference Between Class A, Class B, Class C, and Passenger Endorsement

When selecting the right CDL and endorsement, it’s important to understand the differences between Class A, B, and C licenses, as well as the Passenger Endorsement:

Class A CDL Training

- Required for driving combination vehicles (tractor-trailers) with a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of 26,001 pounds or more and towing trailers over 10,000 pounds.

Class B CDL

- Allows you to operate single vehicles with a GVWR of 26,001 pounds or more, but the trailer must weigh less than 10,000 pounds.

Class C CDL

- Necessary for driving vehicles designed to transport 16 or more passengers, or for carrying hazardous materials.

Passenger Endorsement

- Must be added to a Class A, Class B, or Class C CDL to legally drive vehicles that transport passengers, such as buses, shuttles, or large passenger vans.

Why Earn a Passenger Endorsement?

There are several advantages to adding a Passenger Endorsement to your CDL:

Job Opportunities: With a Passenger Endorsement, you qualify for jobs driving school buses, city transit buses, shuttle vans, and motorcoaches.

Higher Earning Potential: Passenger transport drivers often earn higher wages due to the responsibility of safely managing multiple passengers.

Increased Flexibility: Whether you want a full-time, part-time, or seasonal job, passenger transportation offers flexibility in work hours and job types.

Why Choose SPCDL for Passenger Endorsement Training?

Here’s why SPCDL Truck Driving School is your best choice for earning your Passenger Endorsement:

Personalized Training: With one-on-one instruction, you’ll never have to share a vehicle or instructor. You get our full attention during your training sessions.

Flexible Payment Plans: We offer affordable, flexible payment options to fit any budget, making it easy to start your training.

Test Day Support: SPCDL will meet you at the DMV on the day of your test, providing the vehicle and support you need to succeed.

Start Your Passenger Endorsement Training Today!

At SPCDL Truck Driving School, we’re committed to your success. Our flexible learning options, experienced instructors, and comprehensive support will ensure that you pass your Passenger Endorsement test and expand your career opportunities.

Enroll Today: Get started by calling us to sign up for our Passenger Endorsement training program or fill out the form through our website anytime and we will get back in touch with you.