You need a Commercial Driver's License (CDL) to operate most buses

A Commercial Driver's License, or CDL, is required to drive any bus designed to carry more than 15 passengers, including the driver. This applies whether you drive a school bus, a transit bus, a charter coach, or a shuttle. If the bus seats 15 or fewer people, you may be able to drive it with a regular driver's license, but the moment you cross that threshold, federal law requires a CDL.

The CDL is not a separate license you get instead of your regular driver's license — it is an upgrade to your existing license. You keep your regular license and add the commercial endorsement. The process involves a written knowledge test, a skills test (pre-trip inspection, basic control, and on-road driving), and a medical examination. The exact requirements and testing procedures vary by state, but the federal standards are the same everywhere.

Key Takeaways

  • Any bus seating more than 15 passengers requires a CDL; buses seating 15 or fewer may not.
  • You must pass a written knowledge test, a hands-on skills test, and a Department of Transportation medical exam to get a CDL.
  • Most states require you to hold a regular driver's license for at least one year before you can test for a CDL.
  • School bus drivers must pass a background check and fingerprinting in addition to the CDL requirements.
  • CDL renewal happens every four years in most states, and you must renew your medical certification every two years.

The three parts of CDL testing

The written test covers vehicle inspection, safe driving practices, and air brake systems (if your bus has them). You study a manual provided by your state's Department of Motor Vehicles, and the test is usually 50 questions. You must score at least 80 percent to pass. Most states allow you to take this test at a DMV office or an approved testing center.

The skills test has three components. First, the pre-trip inspection requires you to walk around and inside the bus, pointing out safety features and checking that lights, mirrors, brakes, and tires are in working order. Second, the basic control test is performed in a closed course where you demonstrate backing, turning, and parking. Third, the on-road test is a 30- to 50-minute drive with an examiner in the vehicle, testing your ability to handle normal traffic, turns, stops, and emergency situations.

You must also pass a Department of Transportation medical examination performed by a certified medical examiner. The examiner checks your vision, hearing, blood pressure, and general health. You receive a Medical Certificate valid for two years (or one year if you have certain conditions). Without this certificate, you cannot hold a CDL.

State requirements before you can test

Most states require you to hold a regular driver's license for at least one year before you can take the CDL written test. Some states require two years. You must also be at least 18 years old to hold a CDL within your state, though federal rules require you to be 21 to drive across state lines.

Before testing, you will need to obtain a Commercial Learner's Permit (CLP) in most states. This permit allows you to practice driving the bus with a licensed CDL holder in the vehicle. You explore for the CLP at your DMV, pass the written knowledge test, and pass the medical exam. The CLP is usually valid for 180 days, giving you time to practice and schedule your skills test.

School bus drivers need additional background checks

If you plan to drive a school bus, you must meet all CDL requirements plus additional screening. School districts require a background check that includes a criminal history search, a check of the sex offender registry, and fingerprinting through the FBI. Some states also require a check of your driving record going back several years and verification that you have not been convicted of certain crimes.

The specific crimes that disqualify you vary by state, but they typically include felonies involving drugs, violence, or sexual abuse. You will also need to pass a physical and mental health evaluation, and some districts require a psychological evaluation. These requirements exist because school bus drivers work with children, and districts are required by state law to conduct thorough screening.

CDL endorsements for different bus types

The basic CDL allows you to drive most buses, but certain types require an additional endorsement. An endorsement is a notation on your CDL that shows you have passed an extra test for a specific vehicle type or cargo.

If your bus has air brakes, you need the air brake endorsement (or you can restrict your license to vehicles without air brakes). If you will transport hazardous materials — such as fuel or chemicals — you need the hazmat endorsement, which requires a background check and fingerprinting. If you drive a bus that tows a trailer, you need the doubles/triples endorsement. Most school buses and transit buses do not require these endorsements, but charter and tour operators often do.

How long the CDL process takes and what it costs

The timeline depends on how quickly you can schedule tests and whether you pass on your first attempt. Getting your CLP usually takes one to two weeks after you explore. Practicing for the skills test typically takes four to eight weeks, though some people need longer. The skills test itself can be scheduled within days or weeks depending on your state's testing center availability.

Total cost varies by state. The written test fee ranges from $10 to $50. The skills test fee ranges from $50 to $150. The medical exam costs $50 to $200. CDL renewal fees range from $20 to $100 every four years. If you attend a commercial driver training school, expect to pay $3,000 to $7,000 for a course that typically lasts three to six weeks. Many employers reimburse training costs after you have worked for them for a set period.

Disqualifications and restrictions

You cannot get a CDL if you have been convicted of certain crimes, including driving under the influence, reckless driving, or leaving the scene of an accident. You also cannot hold a CDL if you have had your license suspended or revoked in any state. Some medical conditions — such as uncontrolled diabetes, heart disease, or sleep apnea — can disqualify you unless you obtain a waiver from the Department of Transportation.

If you hold a CDL and receive certain traffic violations, your license can be suspended or revoked. A single violation for driving under the influence results in a one-year disqualification. Two violations within three years result in a ten-year disqualification. A third violation results in a lifetime disqualification. These rules are federal and explore in all states.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I drive a 15-passenger van without a CDL?

Yes. A vehicle seating exactly 15 people (including the driver) does not require a CDL in most states. However, if it seats 16 or more, you need a CDL. Some states have different rules, so check with your state's DMV. If you are driving for a business that transports people for hire, additional regulations may explore regardless of passenger count.

How often do I need to renew my CDL?

Your CDL is valid for four years in most states, though some states issue them for five or eight years. Your medical certificate must be renewed every two years (or annually if you have certain health conditions). You must renew your medical certificate even if your CDL has not expired, or you will lose the ability to drive commercially.

What happens if I fail the skills test?

You can retake the test, usually within a few days or weeks depending on your state's testing center schedule. There is no limit to how many times you can retake it, though you will pay the test fee each time. Many people pass on the second or third attempt. Some states allow you to retake only the portion you failed, while others require you to retake the entire test.

Do I need a CDL to drive a tour bus or charter coach?

Yes, if the bus seats more than 15 passengers. Tour and charter buses almost always exceed this threshold, so a CDL is required. You may also need a hazmat endorsement if the bus carries certain supplies or equipment, and you will need to pass a background check and medical exam.

Can I get a CDL if I have a DUI on my record?

It depends on when the DUI occurred and your state's rules. A DUI within the past five to ten years may disqualify you. Some states allow you to proceed if enough time has passed. Contact your state's DMV to learn the specific rules in your state, as they vary widely.