What Is a Passenger Endorsement and How Do You Get One?

If you want to drive a commercial vehicle that carries people, such as buses, shuttles, ot tour vans, you’ll need more than just a CDL. This will require a passenger endorsement (often called the ‘P’ endorsement). At 2020 CDL Training, we help students understand exactly how to get passenger endorsement and what is involved in adding this provision.

Why a Passenger Endorsement Matters

CDL will give you the freedom to drive heavy vehicles or combinations (depending on class), though it does not necessarily authorize you to transport passengers. The passenger endorsement gives you the legal permission to carry passengers in commercial vehicles. In its absence, driving a bus or van for hire (or with a large number of seats) can lead to legal violations.

According to FMCSA regulations, if you have to operate a vehicle that transports 15 or more adult passengers (other than the driver), or any vehicle that is modified to carry 9 or more passengers (including the driver), you must have the ‘P’ endorsement.

Prerequisites Before You Apply

To answer your question, ‘how do I get a passenger endorsement’, you will have to meet a couple of requirements:

• Hold a valid CDL: Before applying for the endorsement, you must already have a proper type of CDL (A, B, C). This makes sure that you have a solid foundation in commercial driving and are familiar with the fundamentals of vehicle operation before you pick up passengers.
• Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT): According to federal rules, the addition of a passenger (P) endorsement is a kind of entry-level upgrade. This means that you must complete ELDT training specifically for passenger vehicle operation and then take the endorsement test. This training prepares you for real-world situations, including safety protocols, loading and unloading procedures, and emergency handling.

These requirements ensure that the candidates are prepared in theory and practice before being allowed to transport passengers.

Steps to Get the Passenger Endorsement

Here are some of the key steps to follow to get your passenger endorsement:

1. Study the Passenger Content: Review the CDL manual sections of your state concerning passenger operations, vehicle inspection, loading, safety procedures, and emergency protocols.
2. Pass the Knowledge Test: You’ll be tested on issues such as passenger loading/ unloading, safety measures, transit vehicle systems, and passenger vehicle inspections. Some states also demand an additional test if the vehicle has air brakes.
3. Complete the Skills Test in a Passenger Vehicle: Once you’re done with the written test, you will need to showcase your ability to safely operate a passenger vehicle, with manoeuvres, braking, turns, and observation.
4. Submit Required Documentation: You might be required to submit driver records, medical certification, background checks, or identity proof, depending on your state, before the DMV authorizes the endorsement.

Once you pass the knowledge and skills test and meet documentation requirements, you can update your CDL with the ‘P’ endorsement, which will allow you to legally transport passengers commercially.

What Training Looks Like at 2020 CDL Training

At the 2020 CDL Training, we train students for all the procedures of the passenger endorsement process. Here is what you may look forward to when you learn how to get passenger endorsement through us:

• Structured Classroom Modules: We provide a structured course covering the areas of knowledge that you will be tested on: safety, loading procedures, inspections, and passenger handling.
• Practical Driving Practice: We use buses and passenger vehicles during behind-the-wheel sessions to stimulate the real transit scenarios, which an instructor controls.
• Mock Tests & Feedback: Our instructors conduct practice knowledge tests and driving tests to ensure that you can identify weaknesses before your actual test.
• State-Specific Preparation: Because each state can have unique testing regulations, we customize our training as per your requirements.

By the time you test, you’ll feel confident with both theory and practice.

Common Mistakes & Tips to Succeed

Getting a passenger endorsement is not just about passing the test; it is rather a demonstration that you can safely drive with passengers in your vehicle. The following are the common pitfalls and tips that can help you succeed:

• Lack of Preparation on the Written Portion: Several students focus on driving and underprepare for the knowledge test. Don’t skip studying about loading procedures, emergency rules, or passenger safety.
• Not Practicing in the Right Vehicle: If your test car is a bus or large van, practice in something of a similar type; height, braking, and handling are different.
• Ignoring Documentation Requirements: Lack of identity, medical, or background documents can delay issuance. Always check the necessary paperwork before booking your test.
• Rushing Skill Practice: Take time to master smooth stops, passenger boarding techniques, mirror checks, and controlled turns. These moments are often the ones that make or break your driving test.

FAQs

1. How do I get a passenger endorsement?

For getting a passenger endorsement, you are required to already have a valid CDL, complete the Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) for passenger vehicles, and then take the knowledge and skills test.

2. When is a Passenger Endorsement required?

You need a passenger endorsement when you plan to drive a commercial vehicle that is designed to carry passengers, such as buses or large vans, that legally transport people.

3. How long does it take to get a passenger endorsement?

The time it takes to get a passenger endorsement depends on how quickly you complete the ELDT and schedule tests; however, most drivers can finish the process within a few weeks.