S Endorsement (School Bus Endorsement) & How To Get It

What is the School Bus Endorsement – S Endorsement

S Endorsement (School Bus) is an additional certification required for commercial driver’s license (CDL) holders who wish to operate school buses.
(To drive a school bus you will also need a Passenger (P) Endorsement)
S endorsement is designed to ensure that school bus drivers are knowledgeable about the specific safety regulations and requirements associated with transporting students.
Classes that can obtain S endorsement: A, B.

Here’s an overview of the S Endorsement and the steps to obtain it:

Basic Requirements for the School Bus Endorsement

• You must already possess a valid CDL (Class A, B) or be in the process of obtaining one.
• You must have a clean driving record, free from any disqualifying offenses.
• You must be at least 21 years old (may vary by state) and meet the necessary physical and medical requirements for CDL holders.
• You will need a Passenger P Endorsement as well to legally operate a school bus. 
  

  Study for the written exam:

• Obtain your state’s CDL manual, which will include a section on the S Endorsement.
• Review the material, focusing on topics such as school bus safety, loading and unloading students, student management, and emergency procedures.
• Take practice exams to gauge your understanding of the material.
  

  Pass the written exam

• Schedule an appointment at your local DMV or 3rd party testing center.
• Bring the required identification and any necessary fees to the exam.
• Pass the written exam, which may consist of 20-30 questions depending on your state’s regulations.
  

  Complete the required training

• Some states require school bus driver training, which includes both classroom and behind-the-wheel instruction. This training may be provided by your employer, a private training school, or a state agency.
• Topics covered in training may include defensive driving, first aid, student management, and pre-trip inspections.
  

  Pass the skills test

• After completing the required training, schedule an appointment for the skills test, which includes a pre-trip inspection, basic vehicle control, and on-road driving.
• Demonstrate your ability to operate a school bus safely by performing various maneuvers and following proper procedures during the test.
• You may need to bring your own school bus for the test or make arrangements with your training provider or employer to use their vehicle.
  

  Obtain your S Endorsement

• Once you have successfully passed the written exam and skills test, your S Endorsement will be added to your CDL.
• Your local DMV or licensing agency will provide you with a new CDL that includes the S Endorsement or update your existing CDL.
  

  Maintain your S Endorsement:

• To keep your S Endorsement valid, you must maintain a clean driving record and comply with any state-specific requirements, such as periodic retraining or medical exams.

It’s important to note that requirements and procedures may vary by state, so make sure to consult your state’s department of motor vehicles or transportation for specific information on obtaining the S Endorsement.
Do you need a CDL to drive a school bus?
Learn about Charter Bus Endorsement here.