Passenger (P) Endorsement Requirements (2026)
To add a Passenger (P) endorsement you need a CDL, FMCSA-approved ELDT theory, a passing state P knowledge test, and the in-vehicle skills test. ELDT is $20 at DLA Academy.
Who needs the Passenger (P) endorsement
The Passenger (P) endorsement is required to drive any commercial motor vehicle designed to carry the number of passengers your state defines as requiring a CDL — typically buses, motorcoaches, shuttles, and similar vehicles. If your job involves transporting passengers in a CDL vehicle, you need the P endorsement on your license.
Anyone obtaining the P endorsement after February 7, 2022 must complete FMCSA-approved Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) before taking the state knowledge test. For the federal-rule background, see our What Is ELDT? guide, and if you're weighing endorsements, our Which CDL Endorsement Should I Get? guide compares H, P, and S.
Step 1: Hold or obtain a CDL
The P endorsement is added to a Class A, B, or C CDL — it is not a license on its own. Most passenger-bus drivers hold a Class B or Class C CDL depending on the vehicle. You can pursue the P endorsement while you're still earning your base CDL, but the endorsement itself attaches to that license.
If you don't have a CDL yet, you'll also need to satisfy the CDL ELDT requirement for your license class. Our ELDT vs CDL School comparison explains how the affordable online theory path fits alongside behind-the-wheel training, and How Much Does a CDL Cost? breaks down total expense.
Step 2: Complete FMCSA-approved Passenger ELDT (theory)
Federal Passenger ELDT is theory-only on the FMCSA side — there is no federally mandated behind-the-wheel component for the P endorsement theory training itself. You complete the approved curriculum, and your provider submits your completion to the FMCSA Training Provider Registry within 24 hours.
DLA Academy's Passenger ELDT course is online, self-paced, finishes in under 2 hours, and costs $20. If you also plan to drive a school bus, the Passenger + School Bus ELDT bundle covers both endorsements, and the 3-endorsement bundle adds Hazmat.
Step 3: Pass the state knowledge and skills tests
After your ELDT is on record, you take your state DMV's Passenger knowledge test. This is a separate written exam administered by your state — the federal ELDT theory does not replace it. The number of questions and passing score vary by state, so check your state DMV's CDL manual for specifics.
Most states also require an in-vehicle skills test in an actual passenger bus, covering a pre-trip inspection of passenger-specific equipment, basic vehicle control, and an on-road drive. To prepare for the written portion, see our companion guide on what's on the Passenger test and how to study.
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