CDL Passenger Practice Test

Endorsement Code: P

The Passenger endorsement (P) authorizes you to drive a commercial vehicle designed to carry 16 or more passengers, including the driver. This endorsement is required for bus drivers, shuttle operators, and anyone operating large passenger vehicles. It covers the unique safety considerations of transporting people rather than cargo.

Requirements

Hold a valid CDL (Class A, B, or C)
Pass the Passenger knowledge test at your state DMV
Pass a skills test in a passenger vehicle (or a representative vehicle)
Complete Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) for first-time passenger endorsement
Be at least 21 for interstate passenger transport
Meet any state-specific requirements (medical exam, background check for some states)

What's on the Test

The Passenger knowledge test usually has 20 multiple-choice questions with an 80% passing score. Questions cover passenger safety, pre-trip inspection of passenger vehicles, loading and unloading passengers, emergency exit and evacuation procedures, handling of unruly passengers, prohibited practices, post-trip inspection requirements, and rules for driving in various conditions with passengers aboard. You will also need to demonstrate knowledge of ADA accessibility requirements.

Study Tips

Focus on passenger safety rules -never allow passengers to stand in front of the standee line or ride with the doors open

Study the pre-trip inspection items specific to passenger vehicles: emergency exits, handrails, seats, and wheelchair lifts

Know the rules for when and where passengers can stand vs. must be seated

Understand emergency evacuation procedures and how to use all emergency exits

Review the rules about prohibited items and substances on passenger vehicles

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Passenger FAQ

At what passenger count do I need a P endorsement?

A Passenger endorsement is required to operate a commercial motor vehicle designed to transport 16 or more passengers, including the driver. If the vehicle is designed for 15 or fewer (including the driver), you may not need a CDL with a P endorsement, though state rules vary. The key factor is the vehicle's design capacity, not the actual number of passengers on board.

What is the standee line and why does it matter?

The standee line is a line on the floor of a bus behind which standing passengers must remain. No passenger may stand in front of the standee line or forward of the rear of the driver's seat. This rule exists to prevent passengers from blocking the driver's view and to keep them in a safer area of the bus during movement.

Do I need a P endorsement for a church van or shuttle?

It depends on the vehicle's passenger capacity. If the van or shuttle is designed to carry 16 or more people including the driver, you need a CDL with a P endorsement. Many 15-passenger vans fall just under this threshold. However, some states have additional requirements for passenger transport even below the CDL threshold.

What kind of pre-trip inspection is required for passenger vehicles?

In addition to the standard CDL pre-trip inspection, passenger vehicles require checks on all emergency exits and windows, handrails and floor coverings, seats and seat frames, the standee line, signage, wheelchair lifts or ramps if applicable, and the fire extinguisher. The driver must verify all safety equipment is present and functional before each trip.

Can I drive a school bus with just a P endorsement?

No. Driving a school bus requires both a Passenger (P) endorsement and a School Bus (S) endorsement. The P endorsement alone qualifies you to drive commercial passenger vehicles like transit buses, motor coaches, and shuttles, but not school buses carrying students.

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