How to get A School Bus Endorsement : Top 5 Tips

How to Get a School Bus Endorsement

1. Hold a Valid CDL

• To get a school bus endorsement you need to have a valid driving licence, then go to cdl school to get a cdl class b and p endorsement.

2. Pass the School Bus Endorsement Written Test

• Read through your state’s CDL manual school bus section and take the knowledge test on such things as passenger safety, loading/unloading procedures and emergency procedures.

3. Complete Fingerprinting and Background Checks

• Most states require fingerprinting and a background check to ensure you meet the safety and character standards to work with children.

4. Pass a Skills Test

• After having held a CLP and completed training, pass the School Bus test which comprises of the following:

– Pre-trip inspection of the bus.
– Basic vehicle control, such as backing and parallel parking.
– On-road driving to demonstrate safe operation.

5. Meet Other State Requirements

• A few states may also have additional medical tests, drug test, or proof of training in other aspects like first aid, defensive driving, etc.

School Bus Endorsement Requirements

How Much Does It Cost to Get a School Bus Endorsement?

The cost of obtaining a school bus endorsement varies from state to state, considering different fees and training programs required. Below is a general breakdown of potential expenses:

1. CDL Application Fee: To qualify for the endorsement, you first need a CDL. Fees for a Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP) and CDL application range from $25 to $100 depending on your state.
2. Written and Skills Test Fees: Most states charge a minimal testing fee for the school bus endorsement written exam and skills test; the fee ranges from $10 to $50 per test. Training Costs: You may spend between $500 to $5,000 to enroll in school bus-specific training programs, depending on whether you are training through a private institution, an employer-sponsored program, or a local school district.
3. Background Checks and Fingerprinting: Fingerprinting and background checks are required by all states at a cost of about $50–$100.
4. Medical Examination: Applicants must have a valid Medical Examiner’s Certificate; such exams run about $75–$150.
   
   In all, the absolute minimum cost for obtaining a school bus endorsement may be between $200 to $5,000 which will greatly depend upon whether your employer reimburses the training or if it must be out-of-pocket. Always check with your state’s Department of Motor Vehicles regarding any fee or requirement.

How is the school bus endorsement different from the passenger endorsement?

Both the school bus endorsement and the passenger endorsement are intended for CDL holders when driving vehicles carrying people; however, they have a different purpose and different rules.

• Objective

– Passenger Endorsement (P): Required to operate any vehicle designed for 16 or more persons, including the driver. Examples of vehicles included under this endorsement are charter buses, transit buses, and passenger vans.

– School Bus Endorsement (S): Required for those who operate school buses with pre-primary, primary or secondary school students.

• Training

– School bus endorsements require special training in child safety, proper loading/unloading procedures, and emergency evacuations unique to the school environment.

– Passenger endorsements, on the other hand, look at how safe it is to move passengers and do not focus on specific school rules.