Code P
Compatible with: Class A, Class B
Passenger Endorsement
Drive people. Build community. Earn steadily.
Difficulty
Moderate
Salary Impact
Required for passenger positions; opens $38,000–$70,000 career range
TSA Required
No
What Is the Passenger Endorsement?
The Passenger endorsement (code P) is required to operate a commercial vehicle designed to transport 16 or more passengers (including the driver). This covers city transit buses, charter coaches, intercity buses, and shuttle vehicles. It is the gateway to a stable, community-oriented CDL career.
Who Needs This Endorsement?
Any CDL holder operating a bus or passenger vehicle with a capacity of 16 or more passengers. Required for transit bus drivers, charter and motorcoach drivers, intercity coach operators, and airport shuttle drivers.
How to Obtain It
- 1Pass the Passenger knowledge test at DPS (20 questions; 80% passing score)
- 2Pass the Passenger skills test (pre-trip inspection of a bus, on-road test)
- 3Must hold a valid CDL (Class A or Class B)
- 4Background check required by most employers (not TSA)
- 5Renewal with CDL renewal
Knowledge Test Topics
Study Tips
- Memorize the bus pre-trip inspection sequence
- Study ADA accessibility requirements and lift operation
- Review emergency exit locations and procedures for different bus types
- Understand railroad crossing requirements for buses
- Practice passenger management scenarios
Career Impact
Opens transit bus, charter, motorcoach, and school bus (with additional S endorsement) positions. Public transit positions offer strong benefits, pension, and job security. Charter work adds tip income potential.
How Diesel Xtrem Prepares You
Our Class B program covers the Passenger endorsement knowledge and skills test requirements. We help you prepare for both the written test and the bus pre-trip inspection.